Illustration of people on bikes

Lake District cycling

Road cyclists and mountain bikers are spoilt for choice in the Lake District National Park. There are a range of country lanes, permitted cycleways and bridleways to suit all experience levels, and you can be sure of fantastic views along the way!

Hire electric and mountain bikes

The Lake District National Park has set up and built partnerships to open a range of new bike hire locations. Available to hire are mountain bikes and on-and-off road electric bikes in different sizes. Hire a bike for a half, full or multiple days. With some route suggestions along quieter tracks and off-road routes, you can enjoy spectacular views!

Hawkshead

Hawkshead cycle hire

Hawkshead is surrounded by trails for all abilities of rider. Connecting towns and villages in the heart of the Lake District, there are many famous locations to visit on the way, including Hill Top and Lake Windermere.

Book Hawkshead

Coniston Boating Centre

Coniston Boating Centre

On the shores of Coniston, combine paddleboarding with cycling for a day of adventure. Cycleways connect to green lanes on the quiet Eastern shore. Discover small stone beaches with views of the mountains.

Book Coniston

Penrith Bike Hire

Penrith bike hire delivery

We've partnered with Arragon's Cycle Hire. They deliver bikes to locations within 15 miles of Penrith, offering you flexibility. Also, with a collection point at Penrith station, you can continue your carbon-friendly holiday.

Book Penrith

Bike Hire Lowther

Lowther cycle hire

Located at Lowther Castle, this site offers a range of trails aimed at families with options to cycle further afield. With facilities on site such as a playground, café and castle, you're sure to have a full day of fun.

Book Lowther

Langdale Cycle Hire

Langdale cycle hire

Bikes are available to hire from the National Trust at Stickle Barn in Great Langdale. Easy bridleways follow the river down the valley, or try some more challenging routes over to Hodge Close or Little Langdale.

Book Langdale

Waterhead at Ambleside Bike Hire

Waterhead cycle hire

It's easy to hire a bike at Waterhead, at the northern end of Lake Windermere. With routes to Grasmere, The Langdale and the Western Shore of Lake Windermere - plus lots of eating places and pubs nearby to enjoy.

Book Waterhead

Where to ride your hire bike

A phone showing a route on OS Maps appWe've suggested routes at each of our bike hire locations. Download OS Maps App on your mobile phone to track progress on route as you go along. Our routes take you on quiet roads and traffic-free tracks and are suited to our electric and mountain bikes.

The app is free to download and register an account with and can be used on desktop and mobile.

Suggested times here are based on average cycling speeds, but of course, give yourself a bit longer to enjoy the views and refuel.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if we need to cancel our online booking?
This will vary between locations. Please see individual location pages for details.


What is the minimum age to go cycling alone?

Persons under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.


Do you hire out bikes with stabilisers?

We do not offer any cycles with stabilisers.


How old do I need to be to ride an electric bike?

You must be 16 or older to ride our pedal assist electric bikes.


Do you have maps of the trail?

We have maps available at the cycle hire centres.


Can I do a one-way hire?

All cycles have to be returned to the centre they were hired from by the allotted time.


What's included in the bike hire?

Hire includes a helmet, spare tube, tyre levers, pump and bike lock.

Any further questions call +44 (0)15394 40277 or email bike.hire@lakedistrict.gov.uk.

Ready to book?