Cycling Routes in the Eden Valley
The Eden Valley offers a wide range of cycling routes, from gentle family rides to challenging long-distance adventures. It’s essential that all cyclists - including e-bike riders - carry a map and plan their route in advance, as rural terrain and limited signal can make navigation tricky.
For experienced riders, the 190-mile Lakes and Dales Loop showcases the very best of the Lake District, Eden Valley and Yorkshire Dales, with detailed maps and elevation available to help you prepare.
Another classic is the 140-mile Coast to Coast (C2C), stretching from the Irish Sea to the North Sea — one of the UK’s most iconic long-distance cycling routes.
If you’re looking for shorter or more family-friendly options, explore Cycling in Eden for a variety of accessible routes to suit all abilities.
Below, you’ll find a selection of our favourite local cycling routes to help you get started.
RIDES FROM THE DOOR
Pendragon Castle
2hrs ~ 12.5 miles
Mostly lanes and bridleway with a short section of A-road. This route will take you to Pendragon castle, a 12th century ruin - linked to Arthurian legend and Lady Anne Clifford, whose statue you will find marching past Upper Eden Visitor centre in Kirkby Stephen.
Our ride tester Alex says: "This one can be a bit muddy, it was beautiful but definitely one for grippy tyres when its been raining"
