WALKING & CYCLING GUIDES
derwent water loop,
on two wheels.
A easy ride of 10 miles from Borrowdale, with long views and plenty of places to stop.
A PLACE TO ROAM
quiet lanes.
open views.
This ride starts near Borrowdale and covers about 10 miles. Allow 1.5 hours at an easy pace, and more if you stop for the view.
It is graded easy, so it suits most visitors with sensible kit. Hire bikes and electric bikes are available locally.
the start
Begin in Borrowdale, where you will find parking, a café and a clear signed start.
the middle
The route opens out here with the best of the views. A café with bike racks makes a good pause.
the finish
Return the same way or make a loop, and finish with something to eat nearby.
START HERE
three ways to enjoy the ride
A first look at what the derwent water loop has to offer.
The viewpoint · Borrowdale
a view worth the effort
The best views on the derwent water loop come about halfway along. Take a moment and look back the way you came.
The water · Borrowdale
beside the water
Part of the route follows the shore, with places to sit and watch the boats and birds.
The finish · Borrowdale
a good place to end
A café, a pub or a quiet bench: plenty of choices close to the finish.
THE ROUTE
the derwent water loop, your way
Choose the length that suits your day. These are starting points, not turn-by-turn directions.
THE SHORT VERSION
A shorter out-and-back that keeps to the easiest ground and the best views.
THE FULL ROUTE
The whole 10 miles at a steady pace, with time to stop along the way.
THE LONG WAY ROUND
Add loops and detours to make a longer day. Check the map before you set off.
Times are approximate. A helmet, a spare tube and a charged phone.
discover the charm of borrowdale
A LITTLE INSPIRATION
a weekend rideing in borrowdale
A gentle Friday-to-Sunday plan. Move things around with the weather.
FRIDAY
arrive & unwind
Morning
Arrive, unpack and stretch your legs nearby.
Afternoon
Pick up supplies and look at the route for tomorrow.
Evening
Supper close to your base and an early night.
SATURDAY
the main ride
Morning
Start early on the derwent water loop.
Afternoon
Stop for lunch at the halfway point.
Evening
A long soak and a quiet evening in.
SUNDAY
one last lovely detour
Morning
A short, easy outing before you leave.
Afternoon
A final café stop in the village.
Evening
Leave a little margin for the journey home.
AROUND THE TABLE
good food. even better company.
A few places to refuel, from a first coffee to a proper supper.
Coffee & a slow start
The village café
Borrowdale
Strong coffee and fresh baking before you set off.
Lunch on the go
The village shop
Borrowdale
Pies, sandwiches and cake to carry.
A well-earned drink
The local inn
Borrowdale
Local ales and a warm fire at the end of the day.
Make an evening of it
The country house
Borrowdale
A special supper. Book ahead and plan your journey back.
DISCOVER BORROWDALE WITH TOGETHER TRAVEL CO
enjoy unforgettable escapes
in the beautiful lake district,
Our holiday homes near Borrowdale put the trails on your doorstep. Stay a little longer and try them all.
BEFORE YOU GO
a little planning.
a lot more ease.
A few practical notes to help you get the most from the trail.
Getting there
The start is a short drive from the village, with a regular bus along the main road.
Parking
There is pay and display parking at the start. Arrive early at weekends.
Choosing your season
Spring and early autumn give the clearest days and the quietest paths.
What to bring
A helmet, a spare tube and a charged phone.
Access, families & dogs
Check the route notes for gradients and surfaces. Keep dogs under control near livestock.
Leave the Lakes as you found them
Use marked routes, close gates and take litter home. In an emergency call 999.
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