The route starts in Kendal, a lovely market town with many attractions including Kendal Museum, Kendal Castle and the Brewery Arts Centre. From Kendal, the route follows country roads north-west, often alongside the River Kent, through Burneside to Staveley, where a couple of riverside attractions may detain you for a while – Wilf’s Café (very family-friendly and a mecca for outdoor lovers) and the largest bike shop in the UK, Wheelbase.
The ride continues on a dedicated cycle route to Windermere. From Windermere, you can continue through Troutbeck Bridge to the Brockhole on Windermere visitor centre, with its range of activities, as well as gardens, grounds, adventure playground, shop, café and restaurant. Also nearby is The World of Beatrix Potter, Bowness-on-Windermere.
The route runs more or less parallel to the railway line between Kendal and Windermere, so you have the option to return by train, or to use the train for some of your outward journey.
If you want a longer route, then Windermere to Grange-over-Sands is perfect, at 27 miles. On arriving in Kendal, you simply pick up the Kendal to Grange-over-Sands route at the old canal head, which is directly below Kendal Castle. From here you’ll pass Sizergh Castle, Meathop Fell and travel over the River Winster before arriving into Grange-over-Sands.
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Please note
We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.
However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.
Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.
Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.