4.9
(15)
398
riders
13
rides
Touring cycling around Claife features routes that navigate the western shore of Lake Windermere, offering a mix of lakeside paths and rolling terrain. The area is characterized by woodlands, historic estates, and views across the lake. Cyclists can expect varied elevations, with some routes including gentle ascents and others presenting more challenging climbs.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
5.0
(5)
102
riders
26.4km
01:50
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
81
riders
19.4km
01:41
430m
440m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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4.3
(4)
54
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
47
riders
15.4km
01:01
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
18
riders
8.89km
00:33
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Claife
There is a cafe about 1m down the track. This would add two miles to any walk!
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Large car park - which can be paid for with card. You will need your card.
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Beautiful ride not technical at all a couple of hours enjoying the lake
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The Windermere West Shore gravel trail offers a peaceful, scenic route along the western edge of Lake Windermere. It’s mostly gravel, making it ideal for hybrid or mountain bikes. The trail passes through lush woodland and open views of the lake, perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying nature. You'll find several spots to rest and picnic.
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The best ice cream in Hawkshead is here
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Not really rideable on a gravel bike. It's stone so when wet & covered in leaves it's like trying to ride on ice up a 20+% climb. Glad we were trying to go up it as descending would have been really dangerous
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Great Coffee, Vegetarian sandwiches and pasties, lovely cakes
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Excellent cafe half way down the west side of the lake. Tremendous selection of coffees, sandwiches, soup, drinks and more. Well worth a stop.
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There are over 10 touring cycling routes around Claife, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes over 400 times.
Yes, Claife offers several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Belle Grange Ascent – View of Lake Windermere loop from Claife is an easy 5.3 miles (8.5 km) trail with gentle ascents, often completed in about 33 minutes. Another option is the Public Yew, Near Sawrey – Hawkshead Village loop from Hill Top, which is 8.9 km long and also rated easy.
Claife features routes that are suitable for families, particularly those with gentler gradients and well-maintained paths. The area's network includes options that cater to various ability levels, ensuring a pleasant experience for all.
Many routes in Claife provide stunning views across Lake Windermere. The View of Lake Windermere – Wray Castle loop from Far Sawrey offers continuous lakeside vistas and passes historic Wray Castle. Another route, the View of Lake Windermere – View of Lake Windermere loop from Hill Top, also features panoramic lake views, though it includes more challenging ascents.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Claife are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the View of Lake Windermere – Wray Castle loop from Far Sawrey and the Wray Castle – View of Lake Windermere loop from Waterhead.
Along the touring cycling routes, you can explore historic estates like Wray Castle and enjoy views across Lake Windermere. Nearby attractions include natural landmarks such as Old Man of Coniston summit, Wansfell Pike summit, and Rydal Cave.
The touring cycling routes in Claife are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 15 reviews. Cyclists often praise the mix of lakeside paths, rolling hills, and wooded areas, as well as the scenic views across Lake Windermere.
The duration of touring cycling routes in Claife varies depending on the distance and difficulty. Shorter, easier routes like the Belle Grange Ascent – View of Lake Windermere loop from Claife can be completed in about 33 minutes, while longer, more challenging routes such as the View of Lake Windermere – View of Lake Windermere loop from Hill Top may take over an hour and 40 minutes.
Claife is situated on the western shore of Lake Windermere. While direct public transport to specific trailheads might be limited, you can often reach the general area by bus services operating around the Lake District, or by using the Windermere Ferry which connects Bowness-on-Windermere with Ferry House at Claife.
Parking is available at various points around Claife, particularly near popular starting locations for routes. Look for designated car parks in areas like Far Sawrey or near attractions such as Wray Castle, which often provide facilities for visitors.
Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments along many routes, especially in villages like Far Sawrey or near popular landmarks. Wray Castle, for example, often has a cafe, and there are other local establishments scattered throughout the area to stop for a break.
While many areas in the Lake District are dog-friendly, it's important to ensure your dog is comfortable and safe if accompanying you on a touring bicycle, typically in a trailer or basket. Always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and check specific route guidelines for any restrictions.


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