The question is – what can it offer the nation’s diehard cycling fans? Well, quite a lot actually. There are hundreds of exciting cycle routes throughout the county, says GoLakes.com. Some are very mild and relaxing, others are a little more challenging. There are routes that will guide you across the gentlest of slopes, and there are routes that will have you clinging to the handlebars. Here’s a guide to some of the best cycling spots in Cumbria.

This is a very gentle, very mild cycle route. It’s quite a long one, but it’s appropriate for riders of all ages, say the experts at LakeDistrict.gov.uk. In fact, it’s a great route to take the little ones on. It can be completed in about two hours, if you ride at a leisurely pace. You should start at the Windermere ferry house – you will have to put yourself and your bikes on the Cross Lakes Shuttle network. Once you’ve completed the ferry ride, cycle along the clearly marked route to the north of the lake. Keep the lake to your right and climb through the meadows and woodland. After an hour and a half, you should reach the tiny village of Wray. From Wray, follow the main roads to Colthouse and then, the road to Hawkshead. After crossing Black Beck, you should arrive at Hawkshead. Stop and enjoy a well deserved cake.

This is a much more advanced route – it’s better suited to cyclists who are staying in the area. Visit Cottages Direct for more information on the range of cottages available for rent in Cumbria. Start your journey at Grizedale Visitor’s Centre. Cycle through farm and field to reach the borders of the Grizedale Forest. There are green cycle way-markers posted all along this route, so you won’t get lost. After one mile, you will roach the picturesque Juniper Tarn. If you continue to follow the track, you will soon reach Hawkshead and its village square. Here, you’ll find Beatrix Potter’s art gallery, says ViewRanger.com. Cycle to Hawkshead trout farm, and follow the route on to Esthwaite Water and Sawrey village. If you ride past Far Sawrey, you should reach Lake Windermere and the Cross Lakes Shuttle network.

Start your journey at the centre of Hill Top village. Then, follow the bridleway up between the farms. There is a challenging uphill portion of the route, at this point – you might want to get off your bike and walk for five to ten minutes. You should be travelling towards Moss Eccles Tarn. Follow the path round to the beautiful Wise Een Tarn. Don’t forget to stop and admire the spectacular views. Stay on the bridleway and head towards Claife Forest. If you ride along the marked route for half a mile, you should start to see signs for Hawkshead. Following these signs will lead you to Colthouse, where you must follow the main road until you reach Black Beck. You can finish the route here, or you can cycle on to Hawkshead village for a drink in one of the many taverns.

Author: Phillip Gray is an accountant and a keen cyclist. He recommends Cottages Direct for the best deals on accommodation in Cumbria and the Lake District. He lives in Colthouse village and takes his bike out for an adventure, at least twice a week.