When to Visit

Ravenglass & Eskdale RailwaySpring

Spring is a great time to be out and about – clear, fresh skies; flowers, new green leaves and bird song. And it’s a good for cycling too – a perfect opportunity to blow off the winter cobwebs and get some exercise whilst it’s neither too hot nor cold.

Spring can be a fairly dry time of the year (if you avoid the April showers!), quiet on the roads, plus generally cheaper accommodation before the summer rush.  With the clocks going forward at the end of March it makes for pleasant evenings to do a bit of leisurely exploring by bike.

Cumbria is particularly attractive in the Spring – famous for lambs and daffodils – and lots of Easter activities!

TdL00218 copySummer

The amazing range of world-class outdoor settings, including fells, lakes, rivers, beaches and moors – provide a sublime backdrop for summer festivals and events taking place throughout Cumbria.

Cycling is a perfect way to get around in the summer – escape from the confines of a car, meander independently down quiet country lanes, stopping as you fancy to try a Cumberland sausage baguette, a Cumbrian cream tea or a pint of local beer in a pub garden…..

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAAutumn

This is a great time to visit Cumbria on bike – the days are still relatively long giving you plenty of time to pedal and explore, and the balmy air is a good temperature for cycling.

The scenery is exciting, with the season on the turn providing wonderful autumnal colours.  The roads should be even quieter since most people are back at work or school after their holidays. And, being off-peak accommodation and other services are likely to be cheaper and/or have discount offers.

Little Asby Common in winter 4Winter

So the days are shorter now, but there is something quite special about exploring at this time of year. Provided you have the right clothing (and cycling will certainly help you to stay warm…) you can’t beat the quiet, calm, remote, off-the-beaten track feeling!

Crisp air, views of snow on the mountains in the distance and the anticipation of finishing your ride in a cosy Lakeland cafe or pub with a drink by the fire is very invigorating.

Furthermore, being off-peak, as with Spring and Autumn you should be able to get some deals on travel and accommodation, even food and drink perhaps, and less likely to find places booked up.