With everything from dramatic scenery, a wealth of literary and industrial history, top class accommodation and a reputation for outstanding food the Lake District offers everything you could want, and more.

With England's five tallest mountains and deepest lake, two national parks and three areas of outstanding natural beauty, Cumbria's rich natural environment is simply unique. Ride alongside stunning lakes, over mountain passes and through leafy valleys. Take a break at a traditional farmhouse tea room, eat fish’n’chips out of the paper or perhaps indulge yourself in a World Class restaurant - the choice is yours. Visit Dove Cottage, the home of the poet Wordsworth, the magnificent motor museum at Holker Hall, sail along Ullswater on one the steamers, climb Via Ferrata at Honister... the list of things to do is almost endless. Because the area is ‘compact’ you will find that a days riding can easily be combined with a tour or activity, or you can just keep on riding!

But it isn’t all about the Lake District...

With Scotland, Northumberland and North Yorkshire only a short ride away you are in an ideal location to explore further afield. The World Heritage site of Hadrians Wall starts just a few miles north of the Lake District at Bowness-on-Solway and it’s entire length (75 miles) can be ridden in a day (starting from Carlisle its roughly a 165 mile round trip). With a total distance of 150 miles it even allows ample time to visit a couple of the fort

museums such as Chesters and Birdoswald. Scotland is also on our doorstep with the scenic A7 meandering its way north to Edinburgh just over 100 miles away. The glorious beaches of Northumberland with the stunning Bamburgh Castle and island of Lindisfarne are also within a days ride. Why not combine the Lake District, Hadrians Wall, Scotland and Northumberland into a longer stay? A long weekend or one week bike hire will allow plenty of time to tour these areas.

Cumbria

With stunning scenery, thousands of years of history, a renowned reputation as Englands ‘Gastro’ county, a diverse range of accommodation to suit any pocket from camping in Tee-Pee’s (yes, really!) to World Class Hotels, there can be no doubt that Cumbria and the Lake District is the best UK destination.

But don’t just take our word for it - come and see for yourself!

Pictures

Top : The A591 south of Keswick

Bottom : The World Heritage Site of Hadrians Wall at Banks, near Lanercost