The nearest airports are Manchester to the south and Glasgow to the north. There is a railway station at Manchester airport with First TransPennine services that run to Oxenholme Lake District station.
Taking your bike by air
Some airlines charge a flat fee for a bicycle; others regard it as part of your luggage allowance. If your allowance is limited to two items, tape all your panniers together. Most airlines insist you bag or box your bike – deflating tyres, removing the pedals and turning the handlebars round – ask your local bike shop to show you how. Probably the best option for flying is a large polythene bag.
Well done Derwent Valley! Any other cycle clubs in Cumbria thought about doing the loop. It's right on the doorstep… 