Bikepacking is the off-road equivalent of cycle touring, often offering opportunities for wild camping in addition to the usual accommodation options for sleeping under a roof: it promises an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the environment as you explore the best of what the area has to offer on two wheels. 

This guide presents eight challenging 2–5 day rides in the Lake District, suitable for mountain bikes (some routes are also rideable on a gravel bike). All routes are accessible by public transport and many can be completed over a long weekend. 

They are graded from Moderate to Very Hard, although all involve considerable ascent and descent and sections where you may need to push or carry your bike – as such, they are suited to fit experienced riders. 

Clear route description, mapping and elevation profiles are supplemented with a wealth of planning information, including accommodation listings, notes on facilities, and summary details (including grades) for each individual section of the route. Also included are tips on food, kit and navigation and alternative itineraries. 

The routes combine roads, tracks, lanes and bridleways to take you among, around and over the Lakeland Fells, with highlights including the iconic road climbs of Hardknott, Wrynose, Whinlatter and Honister; the off-road passes of Sticks Pass, Stake Pass and Black Sail; and the highest bridleway in England over Helvellyn, England's third highest mountain. 

The guide also features the classic Lakeland 200, which can be ridden over 5 days or completed as an Individual Time Trial.

The rides

Route 1 The Lakeland 200

Route 2 Furness Forests

Route 3 The Old Man of Coniston and the Irish Sea

Route 4 Way Out in the Western Fells

Route 5 Helvellyn and Back

Route 6 Dalston/Skiddaw Mega Pretzel

Route 7 Penrith/High Street Circuit

Route 8 Nine Lakes