Things to do in the Lake District by bike
Updated: 3d
Lake District cycling from Windermere on an e bike is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the National Park. With breathtaking landscape, tranquil lakeside cycle trails, and plenty of places to stop, recharge, and explore, e-bikes make the journey accessible for riders of all abilities—whether you’re an avid cyclist or simply want a relaxed outdoor adventure.
Photo: Guests on our Heart of the Lakes cycling holiday catching the Windermere ferry on route to Coniston via Wray Castle
Why E-Bikes Are Perfect for Windermere and the Central Lake District: The terrain of the cycle paths in the Lake District is a mix of rolling countryside, quiet backroads, cycle trails and hill climbs. E-bikes help you conquer steep sections without breaking a sweat and cover more distance in a single day whilst enjoy the scenery rather than focusing on the effort.
Here’s your guide to some must-see spots, scenic Lake District cycle routes, and unforgettable activities when cycling around England’s largest lake. More cycle route suggestions can be found at: https://www.ebikesafaris.com/cycle-routes-lake-district-uk
1. Windermere Ferry and Windermere West Shore Cycle Route
Roll your e bike onto the Windermere Car Ferry for a mini adventure across the water. The western shoreline offers one of the most scenic and peaceful cycling trails in the Lake District. With woodland tracks and views over the water, it’s a perfect start to a leisurely day’s bike ride.
The trail takes you to Wray Castle, with is a picturesque 19th-century castle with grounds perfect for a café rest stop or picnic. The trail and castle provide great photography spots with uninterrupted lake and mountain views.
Photo: Arriving at Wray Castle on the shored of Lake Windermere for a welcomed coffee break
2. Coniston Water and beyond
From Wray Castle you can follow quiet country cycle paths and lanes to the legendary Drunken Duck historic pub with its stunning views and critically acclaimed food https://drunkenduckinn.co.uk/ (Alternatively, if you are on for a long day’s cycle, you can continue on to Skelwith Bridge and explore the Great Langdale valley with its riverside cycle trails and breathtaking scenery).
From the Drunken Duck the lanes take you past the picturesque beauty spot of Tarn Hows on your way to the charming village of Coniston, which is a gorgeous location on the shores of Coniston Water with the backdrop of The Old Man of Coniston mountain range.
Coniston Water was the setting for the classic children’s book, Swallows and Amazons; where Donald Campbell broke four world water speed records before tragically dying during another attempt in 1967; as well as the home of John Ruskin, the Victorian art critic and social analyst. From the idyllic setting of the Coniston Boat Centre, with the family friendly Bluebird Café, you can hire all types of boats and take a relaxing tour on its restored Victorian Steam Gondola. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/lake-district/steam-yacht-gondola
Photo: The Drunken Duck Inn, where you can relax and decide on a choice of onwark cycle routes
From Coniston Village, you can return to Lake Windermere via the charming village of Hawkshead or take one of the most beautiful and tranquil Lake District cycle routes back to Lake Windermere, along the quiet country lane along the east shore of Coniston Water. From the south end of the lake you continue through the peaceful countryside, rarely visited by car travellers, back towards Windermere. Great for those who want a quiet, more rural ride.
3. Other outdoor activities
Windermere Lake Cruises: A great way to experience the beauty of Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in England, is by taking a Windermere steamer cruise. For a nominal additional price you can take your e bike on the boat with you, which is a great way to finish off your cycle experience, returning from Lakeside Jetty to Bowness-on-Windermere Jetty, or stay on all the way up the lake to Waterside Jetty (Ambleside). These traditional boats offer scenic cruises that allow you to soak in the picturesque surroundings from the water. https://www.windermere-lakecruises.co.uk/
Path to Adventure: Provide a fantastic range of mobile fun-packed outdoor experiences. Whether you want to learn survival skills, canoe down a river or jump off epic waterfalls, you can be sure you'll have a safe and fun adventure. https://www.pathtoadventure.co.uk/
Graythwaite Adventures: Offer a great range of outdoor activities, is a well-established company that operates on the east shores of Lake Windermere, easily accessible by e bikes from Windermere or anywhere in the South and Central Lake District. https://www.graythwaiteadventure.co.uk/
Photo: Delivering bikes to guests having enjoyed a range of activities on the Graythwaite Adventure Centre
Fell Foot: Situated on the south eastern shore of Lake Windermere, the National Trust park offers a great break from your cycle ride, with a wholesome tearoom and an inviting lake shore for a refreshing swim and the option of renting a range of water craft. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/lake-district/fell-foot/index
Where to Rent E-Bikes
E-Bike Safaris deliver comfortable touring E-Bikes to your accommodation or to any pre-agreed location, with options of full-day, or great value multi-day rentals.
Final Thoughts
Cycling around Lake Windermere on an e bike blends adventure with relaxation. You get the freedom to explore at your own pace, climb hills effortlessly, and discover hidden spots that cars can’t reach. Whether you stick to lakeside trails or venture into surrounding villages, every route promises scenic beauty, historic attractions, and that classic Lake District magic.
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