Traveller's Guide to the South and Central Lakes

18 Family friendly cycling at its very best. The Langdale Trail is a great, easy cycle trail through the stunning Langdale Valley. A great way to see the area and some fantastic, family-friendly cycling. Leave the traffic and crowds behind to discover the glaciated valley of Langdale, tarns and waterfalls following riverside cycle paths and bridleways. There are two recommended rides: a beginner’s ride starting in Elterwater which is entirely free of traffic and ideal for young families, and a longer intermediate ride with some stiff climbs and descents which starts at Stickle Ghyll car park in Great Langdale. A mountain bike is best for the latter. Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge via the riverside cycle path Take the riverside cycle path directly from the car park, signed ‘Ambleside, route 37’. The path goes through a gate onto a wide path with the crystal clear waters of Great Langdale Beck flowing alongside. The route is easy to follow and ‘37’ waymarkers help to mark the way. You will need to walk the last bit with your bike as it’s a footpath. Keep the River Brathay on your right and you’ll be rewarded with the dramatic Skelwith Force waterfall. Visit the café and slate craft shop and to return just retrace your outward route – but this time you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views of the Langdale Pikes. Great Langdale to Skelwith Bridge Exit the main car park and turn left along the B5343 for about 200m before forking right through the smaller car park onto a good track, following blue cycle route signs for Ambleside and Elterwater, then timber signs for Elterwater and Chapel Stile. Continue past Oak Howe. Don’t miss the left turn down to Chapel Stile 1 km after Baysbrown Farm. Go across the quarry yard & descend to the river to turn right (river on your left) following cycle route signs for Elterwater. On arrival here, just follow the beginner route to Skelwith Bridge. Blea Tarn, Langdale Stunning scenery Day Out 2 Langdale Bike hire Hire: Great Langdale campsite (National Trust) Ghyllside Cycles, Ambleside, Tel: 015394 33592 Route: Ride along the new Langdale Trail.