It’s Bike Week and the Lake District National Park’s Car Park Supervisor, and keen cyclist Nathan Leadbeater explains how easy it is to hire a bike in the Lake District and gives his five top tips for a successful adventure on two wheels.

Why cycle in the Lakes?

Cyclists are certainly spoiled for choice in the Lake District, routes range from country lanes, permitted cycleways and bridleways so there is something to suit all experience levels and no matter which option you choose, you can be sure of fantastic views along the way!

But we know that it’s not always possible to bring your own bike, so we’ve made it as easy as possible to hire bikes electric and mountain bikes at convenient locations throughout the lake District this summer and have introduced a variety of pick up and drop off points, delivery and clear route maps to make the journey as seamless as possible.

Hassle free bike hire pick up points throughout the Lakes

We’ve extended our National Park bike hire offering and you can now pick up your mountain or electric bikes from:

Coniston

Waterhead

Hawkshead

The team are extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of cycling and cycle-hire provision so do feel free to ask them anything. You can book online in advance and chose from a half day or a full day and the bikes come with helmet and puncture kit so it really is a hassle free way of getting on your bike and exploring.

Top tips for a terrific time

Here are my top tips for a great cycling adventure:

• Book your bike online in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Download the free OS app so you can follow your route and track your progress.
• Dress in layers so you can deal with anything the Lake District weather can throw at you.
• Pack snacks to keep you going along the way – especially important if you have little ones.
• Plan plenty of time for stops to take in the views.

Pick up from Penrith

New for this summer, we’ve teamed up with Arragon’s Cycle Hire who will deliver a bike within a 15-mile radius of Penrith. This is particularly useful if you are arriving at the Lake District by train.

Cycle at the Castle

Arragon’s also hire at Lowther Castle near Penrith which has a great range of dedicated trails aimed at families and options to cycle further afield. If you're seeking a more technical adventure, these extensive grounds are ideal.

Explore Langdale at your leisure

We’ve also teamed up with the National Trust to offer bike hire at Stickle Barn in Great Langdale. From there there’s easy bridleways which follow the river down the valley or you could try some more challenging routes over to Hodge Close or Little Langdale.

Please let us know what your favourite cycling routes are in the Lake District and we do love to see your photos on our social media channels.