If you prefer to experience Cumbria at a more leisurely pace, or have a relaxing rest day off the bike saddle, there’s certainly plenty to do in the region! From trips on steam railways or Lakeland boats; visits to castles, historic houses, churches, gardens, and waterfalls; excursions to museums, art galleries, theatres, cinemas and spas.
Useful links:
- Leisure activities in Cumbria
- Leisure activities in the Lake District
- Leisure activities in the Yorkshire Dales
- National Trust sites
Whilst you are cycling along the Lakes & Dales Loop in addition to the magnificent scenery, architecture; historic villages, towns and hamlets there are lots of specific points of interest to visit (as described in the route descriptions for each section) including:
- Catterlen Hall (Newton Reigny)
- Blencow Hall (Greystoke)
- Greystoke Cyclists’ Café (seasonal) & Quirky Workshops
- Greystoke Castle
- Greystoke open-air swimming pool (seasonal)
- Wordsworth House and Gardens (National Trust), Cockermouth
- Ravenglass to Eskdale Steam Railway
- Haverthwaite and Lakeside Steam Railway (just off the route)
- Lakeland Motor Museum (just off the route)
- Cartmel Priory
- Cartmel Racecourse
- Sizergh Castle & Gardens (National Trust)
- Levens Hall (just off route)
- Devils Bridge (Kirkby Lonsdale)
- Rutter Falls (Appleby)
- Farfield Mill Arts (close to Sedbergh)
Well done Derwent Valley! Any other cycle clubs in Cumbria thought about doing the loop. It's right on the doorstep… 