The Lake District is one of the most rewarding places in the UK to explore by bike. From peaceful country lanes and gentle lakeside paths to some of the country’s steepest road climbs, a cycling holiday in the Lake District can offer something for everyone.
Add in picturesque villages, remote valleys, and plenty of tea rooms and pubs, and it is easy to see why so many cyclists return to the Lakes year after year.
We’ve put together this article to help anyone considering going on a self-guided cycling holiday in the Lake District.
To make sure it shares the best intel, we spoke to local cyclist and e-bike tour specialist Phil Thomas of E-Bike Safaris, who provided his thoughts on when to visit, what to pack and what makes cycling in the Lake District so special. We also take a closer look at the self-guided tours E-Bike Safaris offer and what you can expect along the way.
Let’s dive in!
Part 1: How to plan a self-guided cycling holiday in the Lake District
Why go on a cycling tour in the Lake District?
Lake District cycling holidays are packed with variety – from quiet lanes through green valleys to mountain passes that will test even the strongest legs.
Cycling, scenery and history
What makes the Lake District stand out from other National Parks is the combination of challenging climbs, dramatic scenery, and its rich cultural and historical backdrop. Few places in the UK let you cycle past deep lakes, over remote passes and finish the day in a village with a cosy old pub.
Established cycling network
The Lakes are also a practical place to plan a cycling holiday. The region is well set up for tourism, so while the riding can be remote, you’re rarely far from a decent meal, a place to stay, or a bike-friendly café. Whether you want to tackle iconic routes like Hardknott Pass or cruise along lakeside paths near Windermere, there’s something here for every type of rider.
Cycling service providers
Cycling in the Lake District is popular – and this means that you’ll find there are businesses here who can help you plan a bike trip. Like E-Bike Safaris! More on this below.

Cyclists climbing Wrynose Pass (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)
Why go on a self-guided cycling tour in the Lake District?
A self-guided Lake District cycling tour gives you the flexibility to ride at your own pace and shape your days around what you want to see – or how your legs are feeling. You can stop for a photo, add in a detour, or change your plans depending on the weather. There’s no pressure to keep up with a group or stick to a rigid schedule.
Fixed point tours
The Lake District works well for both fixed base and point-to-point bike trips. If you prefer to stay in one place, there are some great towns you can base yourself in, such as Ambleside, Keswick, Coniston or Grasmere. These offer a mix of route options, from iconic climbs to easier days on the lanes and trails, as well as a good range of places to eat and stay.
Point-to-point tours
A point-to-point cycling tour through the Lake District can be really rewarding, offering a real sense of progression and journey.
A trip from Windermere to Keswick via Coniston and Buttermere, for example, takes in a wide variety of landscapes and includes some of the most memorable passes in the region. You’ll need to arrange luggage transfers, but the changing scenery and new overnight stops make it worth the extra logistics.
Do you need a guide to cycle in the Lakes?
In a place like the Lake District, having a guide isn’t essential. The area is well-signposted and, with GPS route files and perhaps some support from a local operator, it’s very manageable. If you have a reliable bike, a good map, and a bit of confidence, you’ll be well set for a brilliant adventure.

Near Elterwater on an E-Bike Safaris cycle tour (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)
Sponsor Message
Like E-Bike Safaris to help you with your Lake District trip?
They would love to assist!
Their passion is helping people enjoy the beauty of the Lakes by bike. For more information, check out their reviews or head to the E-Bike Safaris website.
Use the code below and you'll receive a 5% discount on any services you book direct with E-Bike Safaris before 1 August 2026.
What are the best places in the Lakes for each kind of terrain?
As mentioned, one of the Lake District’s great strengths is its variety. Traffic-free trails for the family, leisurely days on scenic lanes, and iconic road cycling climbs are all available.
Leisure cycling holidays in the Lake District
For leisure cycling – whether on a conventional bike or e-bike – you’ll find plenty of quiet, picturesque country lanes across the region. The Langdale Valley, South Lakelands and the area north of Keswick are ideal for gentle days out, offering some of the best road cycling in the Lake District.
Popular cycling routes include the Grasmere and Wray Castle loop, the Staveley and Cartmel Fell loop, and the Skiddaw and north Lakes loop. These routes pass through tranquil villages, offer regular café stops and give you a real feel for the local landscape – without too much climbing.
For more cycling routes in the Lake District, see our Lake District cycling guide.

Langdale stone-wall lane (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)
Gentle/family cycling holidays in the Lake District
For family cycling focused Lake District holidays, or if you just want a gentle Lake District cycling route, there are growing numbers of easy-going options.
The cycle path on the western shore of Lake Windermere is a popular favourite, as is the Langdale Valley gravel path from Skelwith Bridge to Dungeon Ghyll. The old railway line between Keswick and Threlkeld also provides a great off-road route with a good surface and lovely views.
For more easy cycling routes in the Lake District, see our Lake District cycling guide.

Descending into Langdale (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)
Sportives and challenging cycling holidays in the Lake District
For those looking for a challenge, the Lake District is home to some of the most famous climbs in the UK. Road cycling in the Lake District is popular and riders come from all over to test themselves on The Struggle, Hardknott Pass, Wrynose Pass, Honister Pass, Newlands Hause, and Whinlatter Pass.
Many of these feature in events like the Fred Whitton Challenge, Lakeland Loop, The Struggle sportive, and the Cumbrian Cracker. If you’re after a road cycling trip that’s both beautiful and brutal, the Lakes won’t disappoint.
For more challenging road cycling routes in the Lake District, see our Lake District cycling guide.
Mountain biking in the Lake District
There are also excellent options for mountain biking. The forests at Grizedale and Whinlatter have some of the best-known trail networks in the region, with bike hire available on-site. These are well-marked routes with options for all skill levels.
E-bike tours in the Lake District
E-bikes are a great option for exploring the Lake District. The pedal assist makes climbing hills more enjoyable, especially if you’re not used to long gradients or are riding with friends or family at different fitness levels. E-bikes let you cover more ground than walking, while still giving you time to take in the scenery – and without the stress of traffic or parking.
With E-Bike Safaris, you can ride from your accommodation or a chosen meeting point. We plan routes carefully so that they follow quiet lanes and paths, with interesting stops along the way.
The self-guided tours also include multi-day options with luggage transfers, GPS routes and support throughout, so you can simply enjoy the riding and the views – without worrying about the logistics.

Great Langdale Valley from Pike of Blisco (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)
What is the best time of year to cycle in the Lake District?
The Lake District is beautiful all year around, but some months are better suited to cycling than others – especially if you’re hoping to avoid crowds or make the most of certain seasonal highlights.
Whatever time of year you visit, be prepared for changeable weather. The Lakes are known for sudden showers, so pack accordingly – and always check the forecast before heading out on your bike.
Cycling in the Lake District in spring
Spring (April to June) is one of the best times to ride in the Lake District. The days are getting longer, the weather tends to be more settled, and the landscape comes alive with wildflowers.
In April and May, you might even spot local specialities like wild garlic or wild asparagus on the menu. Tourist numbers are lower than in summer, so the roads and villages are quieter, and accommodation is often easier to find.
Cycling in the Lake District in summer
Summer (July and August) brings the warmest weather but also the most visitors. The Lake District is a popular holiday destination for cyclists, so expect busier roads, full car parks and for popular towns like Ambleside and Keswick to be crowded. If you do travel at this time of year, setting off early in the day can help avoid the busiest periods – and booking accommodation well in advance is essential.
Cycling in the Lake District in autumn
Autumn (September and October) is another excellent time for a cycling trip. The trees turn golden, the air is often crisp and clear, and the roads tend to be quieter again once the school holidays are over.
Cycling in the Lake District in winter
Winter (November to March) is generally less popular for cycling. The weather can be cold, wet and unpredictable, and daylight hours are shorter.
However, for those comfortable riding in winter conditions, there is still plenty of beauty to be found – especially on dry, bright days when the hills are dusted with snow.

E-Bike Safaris bikes on the edge of Lake Windermere (photo credit: Christine Fisher (via E-Bike Safaris))
Sponsor Message
Like E-Bike Safaris to help you with your Lake District trip?
They would love to assist!
Their passion is helping people enjoy the beauty of the Lakes by bike. For more information, check out their reviews or head to the E-Bike Safaris website.
Use the code below and you'll receive a 5% discount on any services you book direct with E-Bike Safaris before 1 August 2026.
What is the accommodation like for cyclists?
When you’re cycling the Lake District you aren’t short of accommodation options, from cosy guest houses to boutique hotels and rural cottages.
Hotels
At the higher end, there are a number of luxury hotels and spa resorts, many with beautiful locations and excellent food. These can be a real treat after a day in the saddle, though they may not always have bike-specific facilities, so it’s worth checking in advance.
B&Bs
For cyclists, the Lake District’s guest houses and B&Bs often strike the right balance. Many offer secure bike storage, early breakfasts and helpful local advice. In popular hubs like Ambleside, Keswick, Coniston and Windermere, you’ll find accommodation that’s familiar with cycling guests, particularly along well-ridden routes such as the Fred Whitton.
Tips
If you’re planning to cycle the Lake District on a point-to-point trip, there are also plenty of small hotels, inns and hostels in villages across the National Park. Some tour operators, including E-Bike Safaris, can pre-arrange accommodation for you as part of a supported package – making sure you’re staying in places that are both bike-friendly and comfortable.
Whichever option you choose, it’s always worth confirming details like bike storage, laundry facilities and meal times before booking, especially if you’re travelling outside the main season or relying on support services.

Wrynose Pass, Lake District (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)
How long do you recommend for a Lake District cycling tour?
The Lake District is well-suited to both short cycling breaks and longer holidays – it all depends on how much ground you want to cover and how hard you want to ride.
Weekend in the Lake District
If you’re short on time, a cycling weekend trip based in one location can still offer some excellent riding. Places like Ambleside, Grasmere or Keswick are perfect bases for circular day rides, whether you’re after something leisurely or want to tackle a few of the classic climbs. With the right planning, you can easily fit in two or three good rides over a long weekend.
Long weekend to a week in the Lake District
For a more complete experience, many cyclists choose to spend four to six days in the Lakes. Strong road cyclists can cover much of the region in four days, especially if riding from a single base like Ambleside.
For more relaxed touring, having extra time means you can enjoy the scenery, explore different areas, and not feel rushed between rides.
If you’re interested in a multi-day point to point tour, staying in a new location each night adds to the sense of journey and variety. It’s a great way to experience the changing character of the region – from the southern lakes and rolling farmland to the steep mountain passes of the central and northern fells.
Supported cycling tour of the Lake District
E-Bike Safaris offers several multi-day self-guided options including Heart of the Lakes, Full Circle the Lakes and E-Bike the Lake District. These are supported with luggage transfers, GPS routes, and the option to hire a comfortable touring e-bike if you prefer not to bring your own.

Cycling tour, Elterwater (photo credit: Jessica Stockley (via E-Bike Safaris))
What are your packing tips for cyclists visiting the Lake District?
Packing for the Lake District means being prepared for changeable weather and steep terrain – even in summer.
What to wear
Bring layered clothing, including a lightweight waterproof jacket, as showers can arrive quickly. Padded shorts, gloves and breathable base layers will help keep you comfortable in the saddle, while sunglasses and suncream are just as important on bright days.
Sturdy cycling shoes and a good helmet are a must, and if you’re riding in spring or autumn, consider packing warmer layers, a neck buff and full-fingered gloves.
Mechanicals
If you’re bringing your own bike, make sure it’s serviced before you arrive – and consider fitting disc brakes, especially if you’re planning to ride the passes, where long, technical descents are common.
It’s also a good idea to carry a basic tool kit, spare inner tubes, a puncture repair kit, and a mini pump or CO₂ inflator. While help is often nearby, it’s best to be self-sufficient on the road.
Bike hire in the Lake District
Bike hire is available in several locations across the region, though options for road bikes can be limited.
E-Bike Safaris offers delivery of high-spec touring e-bikes directly to your accommodation, along with route planning and support. Some bike shops, particularly in Windermere, Ambleside, Keswick and Grizedale, also offer servicing and repairs – but it’s wise not to rely on availability during peak season.

Wrynose Pass Climb 2 (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)
Sponsor Message
Like E-Bike Safaris to help you with your Lake District trip?
They would love to assist!
Their passion is helping people enjoy the beauty of the Lakes by bike. For more information, check out their reviews or head to the E-Bike Safaris website.
Use the code below and you'll receive a 5% discount on any services you book direct with E-Bike Safaris before 1 August 2026.
Any other tips for a Lake District cycling tour?
Food and drink
The Lake District is well known for its local food, and a good café or pub stop is part of the fun on most rides. Look out for regional specialities like Grasmere gingerbread, Cartmel sticky toffee pudding, and Kendal mint cake.
Most towns and villages have at least one welcoming café, and many are used to cyclists turning up in lycra.
For longer rides, it’s worth carrying snacks and water, especially if you’re heading into more remote areas or tackling big climbs like Hardknott or Honister, where refreshment stops can be sparse.
Getting there and getting around
The Lake District is easy to reach by train, with good connections to Oxenholme, Penrith, and Windermere from cities like London, Manchester and Leeds. For those flying in, Manchester Airport is the most convenient, around 90 minutes by car to Kendal.
If you’re not bringing a car, it’s still possible to get around using trains, buses, and even ferries – especially in central areas like Windermere, Ambleside and Keswick. The Windermere Ferry and Lake District steamers are a great way to link sections of a ride and enjoy a change of pace.
Local etiquette
The Lake District is a popular walking destination, so you’ll often be sharing roads and trails with other visitors. Be courteous when passing walkers and slower cyclists, and keep an eye out for livestock on quiet lanes.

Sheep ahead in Langdale (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)
Signage
Road signs are clear and easy to follow, but a GPS device or mobile navigation app is strongly recommended, especially for rural routes, where phone signal can sometimes be patchy.

Cockney Beck junction between Hardknott and Wrynose pass (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)
Part 2: Your self-guided cycling holidays in the Lake District
What are your tips for choosing between companies offering self-guided cycling holidays in the Lake District?
When choosing a self-guided cycling holiday in the Lake District, it’s worth checking a few key things to make sure the experience matches what you’re looking for.
Check they know the area
First, ask how familiar the operator is with the area. Some large, international companies offer Lake District tours, but they may not be based locally or have in-depth knowledge of the region. This can make a big difference to the quality of the routes, accommodation and support they provide.
E-Bike Safaris is unique in that it operates exclusively in the Lake District. It’s a local business, run by people who live and ride here, so all of the tours are built around first-hand knowledge of the area. That means you can expect routes that follow quiet country lanes and scenic backroads, not busy main roads or generic tourist paths.
Check they can tailor the trip to your requirements
An important part of any trip is where you stay, and you don’t want to find you’ve paid an operator to stay in accommodation that doesn’t meet your expectations.
At E-Bike Safaris, we hand-pick accommodation in tranquil locations. Itineraries can be adjusted day by day to suit your preferences. Whether you want to shorten a route, add in a specific viewpoint or find a great pub lunch stop, the team can help shape your plans as you go.
On the ground to provide day to day assistance
The benefit of a locally based business is also that the support offered is more personal than you might find elsewhere. Our small E-Bike Safaris team is on hand each day to provide assistance if needed, and we offer high-quality touring hybrid e-bikes made in Europe, with everything included for a comfortable trip – waterproof panniers, phone and GPS mounts, built-in lights, helmets and locks.
When comparing operators, look for those who really know the area, use quality equipment, and provide the flexibility and support to let you enjoy the trip your way.

Duddon Valley Cycle Tour (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)
What tour(s) do you offer in the Lake District?
E-Bike Safaris offers a range of self-guided cycling holidays across the Lake District.
Flexibility
All trips are designed to be flexible, and the team is always happy to tailor a route to suit your preferred duration, budget and level of riding.
Loops or point to point
The published tours include circular loop routes from a fixed base, as well as point-to-point itineraries with overnight stays in different locations.
Personally checked and vetted routes and accommodation
Each one is carefully plotted to follow scenic, quiet lanes and cycle-friendly tracks, avoiding busy roads wherever possible. Accommodation is hand-picked in tranquil spots, and your luggage is transferred between stops to keep the riding relaxed and enjoyable.
We’ve been running e-bike tours and rentals since April 2023, and are now an established partner for international cycle holiday companies operating in the Lake District.
E-bike hire only
As well as full holiday packages, we also offer e-bike hire on a multi-day basis. The fleet of high-specification European touring e-bikes is available for delivery and collection at a location that suits your plans – so you’re not tied to a bike shop pick-up point.
Whether you’re planning your own route or would like a few suggestions, the team are happy to help with local insights and check over any itinerary you’ve put together.
Included in the hire is everything you need for a comfortable and confident ride: panniers, phone and GPS mounts, built-in lights, helmets and locks.
The aim is to make it easy for you to enjoy the Lakes by bike, whether you’re here for a weekend or a week-long adventure.

E-bikes taking a breather (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)
Sponsor Message
Like E-Bike Safaris to help you with your Lake District trip?
They would love to assist!
Their passion is helping people enjoy the beauty of the Lakes by bike. For more information, check out their reviews or head to the E-Bike Safaris website.
Use the code below and you'll receive a 5% discount on any services you book direct with E-Bike Safaris before 1 August 2026.
Tell us about the highlights of your tour(s)?
One of the highlights for many riders is the freedom to explore. With self-guided tours, you can stop at a viewpoint, take a detour to a hidden tarn, or pause at a village café whenever the mood takes you. The pedal assistance on the touring e-bikes means you can cover more ground without worrying about the hills – and still have energy left for dinner.
Another highlight is the chance to experience the Lake District in a more relaxed, immersive way. Rather than rushing between the big-name destinations, routes take you through the smaller places – like the Langdale Valley, the lanes near Caldbeck, or the quiet roads around Cartmel Fell. These are the areas where you can really take in the scenery, enjoy the local food, and feel like you’ve had a proper break from everyday life.

View to the west from the top of Hardknott Pass towards Eskdale (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)
What is special about what you offer?
Based in the Lake District
Unlike many cycle tour companies that operate in the region, E-Bike Safaris is based full-time in the Lake District. That local presence makes a big difference. We know the roads, the weather patterns, the café stops, and the quiet back lanes that don’t appear on standard route maps.
We share the heart of the Lake District (not just the edges)
While many operators focus on the Coast-to-Coast route, our tours are designed specifically to showcase the best of the Lake District itself. Rather than skirting the edges, the routes take you deep into the valleys, along scenic lakeshores, and over classic passes – always with options tailored to your riding style and preferences.
Offer responsive, personal support
Because it’s a local company, we offer real-time, personal support throughout your trip. If something goes wrong or plans need to change, we’re nearby and ready to help. That kind of flexibility and responsiveness simply isn’t possible with most international operators.
Off-bike support too
We also take pride in helping guests make the most of each day off the bike too – whether that’s recommending the best pub for dinner, a detour to a scenic viewpoint, or a quieter café you might otherwise miss. The goal is to make your time here not just smooth and stress-free, but genuinely enjoyable from start to finish.

Cyclists on quiet country road with green fells rising behind near Glenridding, Lake District
How should someone find out more?
Please head to our website.
Sponsor Message
Like E-Bike Safaris to help you with your Lake District trip?
They would love to assist!
Their passion is helping people enjoy the beauty of the Lakes by bike. For more information, check out their reviews or head to the E-Bike Safaris website.
Use the code below and you'll receive a 5% discount on any services you book direct with E-Bike Safaris before 1 August 2026.
What next?
A big thank you to Phil for these insights. We hope they help you plan your very own self-guided cycling tour of the Lake District – or get in touch with him if you’re looking for support!
Looking for more information and ideas? Check out our:
- Guide to cycling the Lake District
- Our hub page for UK cycling
- Best regions of the UK for cycling
- Our leisure cycling hub page
- Pick of the best UK sportives
Got a question for Phil?
Fill out this form and we will send it to Phil. We aim to get you an answer within 24 hours where possible!First Published: 13 August 2025
The contents of this website are provided for general information purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on it. You should carry out your own due diligence and risk assessments and take professional advice. Views expressed by interviewees or other users of this website do not necessarily represent our views. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content on our website is accurate, complete or up to date. If you use any information or content on this website, download from, or otherwise obtain content or services through our website, it is entirely at your own discretion and risk. Epic Road Rides Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on the information and content on this website. Find out more here.
Sponsor Message
Like E-Bike Safaris to help you with your Lake District trip?
They would love to assist!
Their passion is helping people enjoy the beauty of the Lakes by bike. For more information, check out their reviews or head to the E-Bike Safaris website.
Use the code below and you'll receive a 5% discount on any services you book direct with E-Bike Safaris before 1 August 2026.
Comments