Biking the Eskdale TRail
Have a cycling day out with a difference! Head up with your bike on a converted carriage on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. Then ride from the foot of the Scafell range via riverside pastures, meadows and historic oak woods of the Eskdale Valley down to Ravenglass on the Irish Sea.
How far is it?
14 km or 8 and a half miles.
How long will it take?
The train ride from Ravenglass to Dalegarth takes 40 minutes. The 'pedal down' is not likely to take more than about 2 hours, depending on how many stop-offs you take.
What's it like?
It's fairly easy pedalling most of the way. It's a mixture of country lanes, stony and earthy tracks and grass fields. After rain it can be wet and muddy in places. There are a number of gates to go through.
The gradient is gradually downwards apart from the challenging climb up Chapel Hill - rapid descent after you reach the summit!
What can I see along the way?
- Look out for red squrrels, roe deer and buzzards
- The leaflet includes a money-off voucher for Muncaster, home to the World Owl Trust, cafe, playground, gift shops and castle
- Fascinating exhibition and information centre at St Bega's Church in Eskdale Green
- Historic Ravenglass village has a Roman Bath House, tearoom, gift shop, craft centre, pub , hotel and post office
Are there places to eat and drink?
Loads! Take your pick from:
- Ravenglass and Dalegarth stations: cafes serving snacks, meals and drinks
- Ravenglass station: The Ratty Arms
- In Boot village: Burnmoor Inn and Brook Hosue Inn
- Close to Forge Bridge: King George IV pub serving hot and cold traditional Cumbrian meals
- Eskdale Green: Village Store
- Muncaster: Creeping Kate's Kitchen
More information
- Check the timetable of Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway (opens in new window)
- Download the Biking the Eskdale TRail Map and Guide (PDF)
- Photo album of Eskdale Trail (opens in new window)
Want even more visitor information?
Visit Golakes (opens in new window), the official website of the tourist board for The Lake District and Cumbria. Browse and book accommodation and attractions online and see what's on in the area.