The best traffic-free bike rides around St. Bees

There are over 30 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around St. Bees, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels. These routes allow you to enjoy the stunning coastal and Lakeland scenery away from busy roads.

Yes, there are a few easy, family-friendly options among the no-traffic routes. These typically feature gentler gradients and shorter distances, making them suitable for cyclists of all ages and abilities. Look for routes with lower elevation gains for a more relaxed experience.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around St. Bees offer a diverse range of scenery. You'll experience dramatic coastal views along the St. Bees Head Heritage Coast, with its red sandstone bluffs and views across the Irish Sea. As you venture slightly inland, routes often provide glimpses of the Lake District's fells and serene glacial lakes like Ennerdale Water. Many routes combine both coastal vistas and quiet country lanes with Lakeland backdrops.

Absolutely. While focusing on no-traffic, many routes still offer significant challenges. For instance, the Loweswater and Ennerdale Bridge loop from St Bees is classified as difficult, covering over 75 km with more than 1000 meters of elevation gain. These routes often venture further into the fringes of the Lake District, providing demanding climbs and rewarding descents.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in St. Bees are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the routes, the stunning coastal and Lakeland views, and the sense of escape from busy roads. The variety of terrain, from gentle coastal paths to more challenging inland climbs, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around St. Bees are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location without retracing your steps. Examples include the View of Ennerdale – The Gather Café loop or the View of the Isle of Man loop, both offering scenic circular rides.

Many routes offer access to significant natural features and viewpoints. You might pass by the dramatic red sandstone cliffs of St. Bees Head, or catch views of the Irish Sea and even the Isle of Man on a clear day. Inland, you can spot fells like Lank Rigg Summit or Grike Summit Cairn, and the serene Ennerdale Water. The historic St. Bees Priory Church is also a prominent local landmark.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in St. Bees, with longer daylight hours and milder weather. However, the coastal location means that even in autumn, you can find crisp, clear days with stunning visibility. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change quickly, especially near the coast and fells.

While many routes focus on quiet lanes, some will pass through or near villages where you can find cafes and pubs. St. Bees itself has options for refreshments. For example, the View of Ennerdale – The Gather Café loop explicitly mentions a cafe, indicating opportunities for a break. Planning your route with potential stops in mind is always a good idea.

St. Bees is conveniently located on the scenic Cumbrian Coast railway line, making it accessible by train. The railway station is in the village, providing a direct link for cyclists wishing to start their no-traffic road cycling adventures without needing a car. Check train schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, St. Bees offers parking facilities within the village, which can serve as a convenient starting point for many of the no-traffic road cycling routes. Specific parking availability and charges may vary, so it's advisable to check local information upon arrival.