Lake District XC rides 20 miles or so

[Parrot of Doom]

Me and a mate fancy a ride in the Lake District this weekend. I'm happy with any trail but my mate doesn't cycle as much as I do so needs something that isn't too steep, something without pushing the bike or carrying it

20 miles, 3-4 hours, loop, a pub along the route - any ideas? We're in Manchestoh so something nearer Lancaster would be better than Cumbria.

[ewenm]

Something in the area between Windermere and Coniston? So Grizedale Forest, Claife Heights, Little Langdale area.

[theboymoon]

What about the northface trail at Grizedale?

OK, its not the most inspiring riding in the lakes (heck there's even better riding on that hill off the main trail) but its a nice loop and a total no-brainer from a route finding point of view....

[Parrot of Doom]

theboymoon said:

What about the northface trail at Grizedale?

OK, its not the most inspiring riding in the lakes (heck there's even better riding on that hill off the main trail) but its a nice loop and a total no-brainer from a route finding point of view....

That looks great but its a bit short and perhaps slightly too hilly for my mate. I've bookmarked it though, I might go up there myself one day Its a bit far away.

[ewenm]

Parrot of Doom said:

theboymoon said:

What about the northface trail at Grizedale?

OK, its not the most inspiring riding in the lakes (heck there's even better riding on that hill off the main trail) but its a nice loop and a total no-brainer from a route finding point of view....

That looks great but its a bit short and perhaps slightly too hilly for my mate. I've bookmarked it though, I might go up there myself one day Its a bit far away.

I'm not sure you'll find much flatter terrain in the Lakes though. Alternatively, look at a map and pick the bridleways that avoid the hills. Along the west shore of Windermere isn't too bad for example.

[MTY4000]

Grizedale is not very hilly, at least compared to pretty much any other route I could recommend in the area. I'd give it ago, your mate should be fine, and it is a nice route with some lovely views over Lake Coniston to Coniston Old Man - if you like it (and your mate fancies a bit more of a challenge) next time you can combine the west side of the route with a trip round the back of Coniston Old Man and back over the Walna Scar road - nice pub in Coniston village to get some pop in after: a very satisfying ride.

[PH5121]

My wife was okay cycling around Grizedale, having not been on a bike for years, so I am sure your mate will be fine.

[Parrot of Doom]

Ah bugger, I'm workign this weekend now. Next week then!