The North Lake District offers some of the best bike rides you will ever experience.
One of the real pleasures of being here in Penrith is the opportunity to see some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes from the saddle of a mountain bike. Needless to say, it’s also essential to ride safely and responsibly.
Before hit the hills on your bike…
Before heading out, check and double check your bike is in good working order — go through everything, especially the brakes, tyres, and gears. Then take time to familiarise yourself with your route: consider distance, elevation gain, and technical difficulty. That last one is really important for mixed ability groups. We also suggest you think about tools like OS Maps or dedicated mountain biking apps that will help plan your adventure. Finally, remember that one of the pleasures of the Lake District is the changeable conditions. The weather can change on a sixpence so always check the forecast and prepare for all conditions.
Stick to the trails
The Lake District National Park is a protected area, with specific guidelines for where you can and cannot cycle. To protect the ecosystem, stick to bridleways, byways, and permitted mountain bike trails. Footpaths are off-limits to bikers, so respect the rules and follow the signage. Riding responsibly ensures these trails remain open and in good condition for future visitors.
Be prepared for the road and the hills
When you are out and about in Penrith and North Lakes, you will probably want to make the most of your bike by using the roads as well as being off the beaten track. The drivers around here are used to bikes but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t think about safety. Being seen is always the first rule so make sure you are always well lit. The roads can be winding, and you can find yourself plunged into the twilight under trees from bright sunshine suddenly, so the drivers need to be able to see you clearly. A good range of safety equipment is available from the town or from online retailers such as lightUpU who also have equipment suitable for walkers and horse riders.
The remote and rugged nature of the Lake District also means you should always be ready for emergencies. It may seem a bit like last century, but trust us, carry a map. Even if you have a GPS device check your route with a map and carry it with you. A basic first-aid kit, tools for bike repairs, and enough food (perhaps some mint cake) and, of course, plenty of water for your journey is essential. Always, let someone know your planned route and expected return time before you leave, particularly if you are going off the beaten track. A charged phone is a good idea, but don’t rely on your mobile, reception can be spotty.
Leave no trace… except good memories
The principles of ‘Leave No Trace’ apply in the Lakes. Take all your litter home, and do not disturb wildlife or livestock. Gates should be left as you find them and how common sense says they should be. If they are closed, ensure you close them behind you. The only exception to leaving no trace is good memories for others. Be respectful of walkers, horse riders and other users who use the trails, they are out here to generate great memories as well.
Wildlife and livestock
The Lake District is home to a rich variety of wildlife, as well as some free-roaming livestock. Keep a respectful distance from animals and do not feed wildlife. We strongly suggest you do a little bit of research into the local wildlife as well as respecting the farmer’s lands. A nice flat ride across a field can turn pretty chaotic if it happens to contain a bull!
In case of emergency
In an emergency, dial 999 and ask for the Police, then Mountain Rescue. Be prepared to give your location as precisely as possible. Your phone may not have a signal in the more remote areas so consider carrying a whistle to attract attention. Again, lights are important in an emergency. At night even a small light can be seen for miles.
Finally…
Have a great ride. This is some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, so be safe, be careful, be prepared and most of all, be prepared to have your breath taken away by the view.
