Highlight • Settlement
Coniston Village
Road cycling
4.9
(94)
Hiking
5.0
(9)
Mountaineering
5.0
(3)
Cycling
5.0
(2)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Mountain biking
5.0
(1)
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Tips
June 20, 2026
Hiking
Coniston is said to be derived from the Old Norse words Konigs Tun or king's settlement. That king is said to have been Thorstein, a Viking who gave his name to Thurstinii Watra, the old name of Coniston Water.
(Wikipedia)
September 10, 2018
Road cycling
September 17, 2018
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Coniston Village
4.8
(5)
194
riders
87.5km
04:59
1,790m
1,790m
Embark on the Coniston and Hardknott Pass loop from Windermere, a difficult 54.3-mile (87.5 km) racebike route through the Lake District National Park. This challenging ride features a significant 5872 feet (1790 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 4 hours and 59 minutes to complete. You will cycle past England's largest natural lake, Windermere, and through diverse Lakeland scenery, including views of the Langdale Pikes and the Eskdale Valley, with the infamous Hardknott Pass presenting gradients up to 33%.
This route demands very good fitness and cycling experience, especially when tackling the extreme gradients of Hardknott and Wrynose Passes. Be prepared for sections that may be unpaved and difficult, potentially requiring you to push your bike. Descending these steep passes also requires careful handling due to their challenging nature and sometimes poor road surfaces. A unique ferry crossing adds an interesting element to your journey.
The Coniston and Hardknott Pass loop is renowned as one of the most challenging cycling climbs in the UK, often considered a rite of passage for experienced cyclists. Both Hardknott and Wrynose Passes hold historical significance as ancient Roman trade routes. Completing this difficult loop offers a profound sense of achievement, making it a bucket-list experience for many road cyclists seeking an iconic physical challenge combined with breathtaking natural beauty.
5.0
(1)
71
riders
The Hardknott Pass, Coniston Water & Birker Fell loop from Ravenglass is a difficult racebike route, challenging even for very fit cyclists. This 56.7-mile (91.3 km) journey features relentless climbs and descents, with a significant elevation gain of 5425 feet (1653 metres). You'll spend around 5 hours and 13 minutes navigating mostly well-paved roads, though some segments can be unpaved and difficult. The route offers dramatic landscapes, from the spectacular mountain views of Hardknott Pass to the tranquil woodlands around Coniston Water. You'll experience the incredible atmosphere of the Duddon Valley and wide, exposed hillsides on Birker Fell.
This loop is classified as a hard road ride, demanding very good fitness due to its extreme gradients. Hardknott Pass, in particular, is infamous for its steepness, with sections reaching a staggering 30-33%. Descending Hardknott Pass is equally tricky, requiring careful attention and good brakes. Be prepared for poor tarmac in places and sharp turns. Some unpaved segments might even require you to push your bike.
Hardknott Pass is widely considered one of the most challenging cycling climbs in the UK, often seen as a "rite of passage" for enthusiasts. Its 30-33% gradients make it the steepest road in England, a true test of stamina and endurance. This historic road dates back to the Roman era, built around AD 110 to connect coastal forts with inland garrisons. The route is also a highlight of the popular Fred Whitton Sportive, an infamous annual event known for its brutal climbs.
84.6km
04:50
1,390m
1,390m
This difficult 52.6-mile road cycling loop from Windermere offers challenging climbs and stunning Lake District views, including Coniston Wa
Details
Informations
Elevation 60 m