On your bike for cycling in the lakes

Thinking of a way to celebrate ‘Bike Week’ from 14 - 22 June 2008? Then why not take to ‘the Lakes’ for some spectacular pedalling around the fells. In the heart of the Lake District with stunning views over Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells, Linthwaite House Hotel is ideally situated for those who want to explore this delightful area of Cumbria by bicycle.

With rolling valley trails, picturesque bridleways and gentle winding roads just on the doorstep, Linthwaite’s guests, of all cycling abilities, can safely take to the road. With a choice of waymarked safe and enjoyable family paths, winding quiet back road routes and more challenging mountain biking trails over Lake District peaks, any pedalling will be more than rewarded by the opportunity to enjoy unspoilt countryside, breath-taking views and the promise of a delicious four course dinner and comfortable bed at the end of it.

With a good selection of trails starting within an easy distance from the hotel, cyclists have plenty to choose from, including:

Quiet lanes of South Windermere (17 miles, relatively easy with 3 climbs, approx. 2 hrs) – An easy loop picked up just down the drive from Linthwaite, this leisurely trail passes through numerous hamlets, villages and areas of farmland.

Esthwaite Water via Hawkshead and Hill Top (10 miles, relatively easy cycling with Windermere Ferry crossing, 1 - 2 hours) Just a short ferry trip across Lake Windermere from the hotel, follow the route to Hawkshead and Near Sawrey. The ride covers Beatrix Potter’s 17th Century farmhouse where many of her early stories were formulated, the natural lake of Esthwaite Water and one of Wordsworth’s favourite towns - Hawkshead, with its whitewashed buildings, narrow streets, alleyways, quaint corners, courtyards and cobbled streets.

Winster, Sizergh Castle, Kendal and Staveley (Approx. 25 Miles, relatively easy riding with some short climbs, many quiet country roads apart from Kendal Town) – From Linthwaite, cycle via the charming villages of Winster and Underbarrow through woodland to the fascinating 14th Century Sizergh Castle and Gardens with its collection of Jacobean relics, Tudor panelling and 17th Century Flemish Tapestry. Continue onto the popular Lake District town of Kendal (home to Kendal Mintcake) and on to the medieval village of Staveley, gateway to the Lakes, before returning to Linthwaite on the cycle path through pretty countryside for the majority of the way.

A number of other trails also start in and around Ambleside which can be easily reached by cycling North on the eastern side of Lake Windermere along the A591 for approximately 4 miles.

Ensuring an easy ride from the start to the end, Linthwaite can organise bicycle hire along with a delicious picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many idyllic spots along the way.

For those who’d prefer not to go it alone, guided bike rides can also be booked through the hotel as part of a group or on a ‘one-to-one’ tuition basis.

Bicycle hire through Linthwaite ranges from £15 - £30/day for adults and £10/day for a child’s mountain bike. A ‘Biker’s Picnic Lunch’ costs £10.50/person including two rounds of sandwiches, piece of fruit, cake and a bottle of sparkling or still water or can be tailor-made to individual requirements.

Rooms start from £120/person/night including a four course table d’hôte menu in their award-winning restaurant, a hearty full English breakfast, service, VAT and bicycle storage.

For more information on Linthwaite or to make a reservation, visit Linthwaite.com.

For more information on cycling routes within easy access of Linthwaite, visit: Cyclingcumbria.co.uk, and for National Bike Week information, see Bikeweek.org.uk.