Lake District Bike Tour – Derwent Water

Question 1

Where does the tour start and end?

Answer

The tour starts and ends just outside of Keswick in the Lake District, UK.

Your destination is Derwent Bank in Portinscale. If you intend to drive parking is available at the accommodation where vehicles can be left at the owner’s risk.

If you prefer to travel by train the most convenient station is Penrith. Group train station transfers are included in the holiday price and there will be a transfer at 16.00 from Penrith train station to Portinscale.

On the departure day (day 5) there will be a transfer from Portinscale to Penrith train station at 09.30. Please do not book any return trains from Penrith prior to 11.00.

Please note if you make alternative travel arrangements that fall outside of the planned train station transfers, there may be an additional charge for individual transfers.

Question 2

How long is the tour? How many days cycling?

Answer

The tour is 5 days long with 3 days of cycling.

Question 3

What's the tour like?

Answer

The Lake District is renowned for its rugged beauty, but also its hills! Most of the routes around Keswick are fairly undulating, so there are some inevitable climbs, but these are well worth it for the spectacular views over the surrounding lakes and hills.

You will be riding on a mixture of quiet country lanes and purpose-built tarmac cycle paths, with a short section along a gravel track, therefore hybrid bikes are recommended.

E-bikes are available, with some departures being e-bike exclusive departures, so there’s always the option of a cheeky boost if you need it! Please note, if opting for an e-bike on the standard departure, the pace of the riding will be set by those on hybrid bikes.

Derwent Water uses a part of the National Cycle Network, a route from the charity, Sustrans, who are working to make it easier for everyone to cycle in the UK. The ground operator will donate to Sustrans for every mile that you and others ride on this route on tour. If you fancy donating more to Sustrans, you can choose to make your own donation for the development of the National Cycle Network.

Question 4

What equipment is provided?

Answer

The tour operator provides everything except a bike (although you are able to hire these), personal equipment and clothing. If you are taking your own bike, it is imperative that it is in good mechanical order. If you are not mechanically minded, you are advised to take your bike to a local bicycle dealer for a service.

You will need to wear a helmet while cycling and it is recommended to bring your own. The tour operator can help if you need to rent or buy one on arrival. Bring clothes suitable for cycling in – specific cycling kit if you have it or simply normal clothes comfortable enough for exercising. It’s also a good idea to bring bottles for drinking water, sunglasses, cycling gloves, a light but waterproof rain jacket and a fleece / sweater for mornings and evenings. A basic packing list will be sent to you with your booking confirmation.

Question 5

What's the weather like?

Answer

When cycling in the UK it’s best to come prepared for sun and rain, warm and cold all in the same day – spring, summer and autumn.

Although there can be wide variations, the monthly average temperature in the UK ranges from 9-12°C (48-54 Fahrenheit) in April, up to 17-20°C (63-68 Fahrenheit) in July, and then 11-14 °C (52-57 Fahrenheit) in October.

At the beginning and end of the season (in March and late October) the weather can be a little less predictable and there could be some cooler / rainier days. In the summer months, temperatures can rise up into the thirties. This can differ from year to year.

It’s highly recommended that you carry layers and a light waterproof with you along the way, (and sun cream in the summer months!) just in case the UK’s weather catches you unawares!