This magnificent loop is a great introduction to Lakeland road riding if you want to avoid the contour-crunching slopes of the steeper passes and the flying metal of the faster roads. It describes an anticlockwise circuit around Windermere taking in the shy damson groves of the Lyth Valley and the woods of Graythwaite. The scenic journey offers a delightful escape into the peaceful countryside, allowing riders to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquility of the Lake District. As you pedal through the enchanting landscape, you’ll be greeted by the alluring aromas of the surrounding flora and the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze. With each bend and turn, there’s a new captivating scene to behold, from the idyllic countryside vistas to the serene waters of Windermere. It’s a route that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike, promising a refreshing and memorable experience for all who embark on this picturesque journey.
Route
Starting at Chester’s by the River on the Coniston/ Elterwater junction turn left heading for Ambleside. The road undulates for a while before passing through Clappersgate and on towards Ambleside at the northerly head of Lake Windermere. The picturesque route offers a delightful journey through the charming countryside, with sweeping views of the surrounding hills and the tranquil waters of Lake Windermere. As you continue on this scenic road, you’ll be captivated by the natural beauty that unfolds at every turn, creating a truly enchanting experience for all who traverse this idyllic landscape. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an avid photographer, or simply seeking a peaceful drive, this route holds an undeniable allure that beckons travelers to immerse themselves in the wondrous splendor of the Lake District.
2. Once over the River Rothay just before Ambleside follow the road round to the left but then switch into the right hand lane to turn right onto Borrans Road. This will bring you to a set of traffic lights where you will turn right heading for Bowness and Windermere on A591.
3. Continue along the road past all the large hotels along the shores of Windermere until you eventually reach the small roundabout. At the roundabout, continue straight ahead up the hill, but shortly you will be turning right into Windermere town near the railway station.
As you journey along the picturesque road, you will be captivated by the serene beauty of Windermere’s shores, flanked by the grandeur of the large hotels. The breathtaking views of the lake on one side and the lush landscapes on the other create a truly enchanting experience. As you approach the small roundabout, the sight of the seamless blend of natural and architectural splendor will surely leave an indelible impression. Continuing straight ahead up the gentle incline, you will find yourself immersed in the tranquility of the surroundings, a serene prelude to the vibrant energy of Windermere town near the quaint railway station. The journey embodies a perfect mix of soothing natural beauty and the lively charm of the town, welcoming you to an unforgettable experience in Windermere.
4. The road from Windermere to Bowness offers a picturesque journey through the stunning Lake District landscape. As you navigate the one-way system in Windermere, you’ll eventually reach a T junction. Here, the road begins to descend, guiding you down the hillside towards charming Bowness nestled at the foot of the incline. Keep an eye out for a small mini roundabout as you continue along this road, ensuring a smooth and safe journey.
As you progress, the road unfolds alongside the captivating scenery, leading you past the bustling jetty for passenger cruises on Windermere. The onward route then carries you towards the elegant Storrs Hall and onwards to the scenic Newby Bridge, spanning approximately 8 miles in total. Embrace the idyllic surroundings and revel in the tranquility of the Lake District as you embark on this delightful 8-mile stretch.
5. Once at Newby Bridge, you will need to turn right effectively heading towards Ulverston. This is the main A590 and he said very busy road so try to use the cycle paths that are available wherever you can. However, you are not on this road for very long as you will need to turn right once again at the Swan Hotel, over the bridge now heading towards Hawkshead. As you embark on this route, it’s important to stay attentive to the surroundings and navigate the turns with care. The journey from Newby Bridge to Ulverston offers a picturesque countryside view, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty while making your way towards your destination. The road towards Hawkshead presents a delightful opportunity to experience the charm of the region, with the Swan Hotel marking a significant point in the journey. Keep an eye out for the diverse landscapes and consider making stops along the way to fully immerse yourself in the journey.
6. As you continue along this tranquil stretch, you’ll be embraced by the serenity of the surroundings, with the picturesque Lake Windermere gracing your right-hand side. The approximately 9-mile journey will lead you to the charming village of Hawkshead, where you can take a well-deserved break and marvel at the delightful scenery this area has to offer. Whether it’s the peaceful wooded areas, the expansive open pasture land, or the allure of the serene lake, every step of the way holds the promise of a truly captivating experience.
7. From Hawkshead it’s a case of heading towards Ambleside again, and passing by Wray Castle on your right hand side. This part of the trip can be a little more dangerous as the lane is quite narrow and there are some quite bad bends. Continue along this road until you reach a T-junction which is just by the river.
As you make your way from Hawkshead to Ambleside and pass by Wray Castle on your right, take in the picturesque surroundings and the charming countryside. However, do exercise caution as this part of the journey can pose some challenges, with narrow lanes and tricky bends. Stay attentive and continue along this road until you arrive at a T-junction nestled alongside the serene river, where you can take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the area before continuing your adventure.
8. At the T junction turn left and head for Coniston – after about a mile and a half you will have reached Skelwith Bridge and Chesters by the river.
You are now back, and it’s been about 35 miles all round Lake Windermere. What a beautiful way to spend a day. The picturesque scenery and serene waters of Lake Windermere provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely 35-mile journey. As you meandered around the lake, each mile brought new breathtaking views and moments of tranquility. Whether it was the gentle lapping of the water against the shore or the sight of lush greenery along the banks, every element of this experience added to the beauty of the day.
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