The South Lakes District Loop

Distance: approx 50-60 miles

This is a great cycling adventure taking in everything this very varied landscape has to offer. Beautiful views across Coniston Water as we head North from Lowick, along flattish country lanes eventually arriving in Coniston village. From there we head South through Torver to Broughton in Furness, with a few sharp climbs to test the legs. This section gives glimpses of the Duddon Estuary and what lies ahead. On leaving Broughton there are several options, one of which can take in the climb over Woodland Fell, or an easier option for a couple of miles on a main road. On to Dalton by the ancient castle before descending into the hidden valley hiding the imposing ruins of Furness Abbey. A short climb followed by a long flat sees the expanse of Morecambe Bay opening up in front of us. Time for a cafe stop overlooking Peil Island with its castle ruins rising above the sea’s channel. Next is a relaxing 10 miles following the shores of Morecambe Bay with fantastic views to the North of the mountains of the central Lake District and the fells of High Furness, before arriving in Ulverston. From here there are several options to return to Lowick, one of which contains the final climb of the Broughton Beck Bastard, as named by the Lakes Road Club riders.

South Lake District Loop add on… Walney Island

It is quite easy to go on a detour via Barrow and circumnavigate Walney Island to visit the “Riviera of Cumbria”. This probably adds about 10 miles of flat roads to the above ride.