Cycling Trails and Tips for the Beginner
Cycling is a fantastic way to experience the wonderful surroundings near our parks. Whether you’re new to cycling or looking to get back into it, we’ve compiled a list of beginner-friendly trails and essential tips to help you get started.
So, why not leave the car behind and let the narrow lanes and roads carry you and your two wheels on an adventure?
What are some great cycling trails for beginners near Holgates?
Here are four excellent cycling routes suitable for beginners in the areas surrounding our Holgates parks:
The Bay Cycle Way
This fantastic new route offers a true adventure with momentous views, typical of our Bay View park. With a mixture of hidden paths, quiet lanes, and quaint tracks, this trail takes you through some of the most stunning areas of Cumbria and Lancashire.
The Bay Cycle Way is a long-distance route, but it’s simple enough for beginners and experts alike. Starting from the south-west coast of Cumbria and ending at Glasson Dock in Lancashire, this route is a treat for the eyes. You can see the full route and print a map here.
Top Tip 1: Intervals make a cycle ride much easier. Make sure you take some water with you and take breaks every 30 minutes at the most.
Arnside To Kirkby Lonsdale
This 26-mile cycle is a moderate-level route with plenty of potential stop-offs for cafés, wildlife centres, and pubs. Escape into leafy woodland scopes as you pedal along quiet lanes and stone roads from Arnside up to the west coast mainline and onto the stunning Lancaster canal. Enjoy moderate climbs, delightful descents, and fine views towards Ingleborough.
This steady yet ambitious route is suitable for beginners looking for a bit of a challenge, as well as more experienced cyclists wanting a relaxing ride. A map is available here.
Top Tip 2: Try wearing some padded shorts, as even padded saddles don’t help your bottom on longer rides. You want to be comfortable!
Kendal Castle to Grange Over Sands
An easy trail at 15 miles (with a shorter 5.5-mile alternative available), this simple route takes you from picturesque Kendal, known as the “gateway to the Lake District,” to the Edwardian seaside resort of Grange-over-Sands.
Starting from the easily accessible Kendal Castle, you’ll witness 12th-century ruins while exploring on your bike. Visiting the castle is an adventure in itself, and if you’re feeling more ambitious, you could even cycle to the castle from one of our Holgates parks. A map is available here.
Top Tip 3: Smile! Riding a bike is fun. Acknowledge fellow riders, and don’t worry too much about being the fastest, or the greatest. Just enjoy a slow and steady pace, and take in the view.
Carnforth Circular
This 19.9-mile route is superb for beginners. Passing through quaint towns and offering superb coastal views, you can complete this ride in under 2 hours. The route takes you through Hale, Milnthorpe, Silverdale, and Millhead, with opportunities for coffee and cake stops along the way.
This moderate ride gives you plenty of time to relax, take in the surrounding beauty, and enjoy a well-deserved rest halfway through. You can see a map here.
Top Tip 4: If you are going out for a cycle on your own, make sure you tell someone where you are going and how long it should take you. You are loved and you don’t want people worrying.
These are just four of the many cycling routes to conquer in the surrounding areas of Holgates. If you need any information on accommodation for you and your family, we can certainly help with that. And the refreshing drink you deserve at the end of your bike ride, well that’s what we are here for!
What are some essential cycling tips for beginners?
To help you get the most out of your cycling experience, here are some valuable tips for new cyclists:
- Take regular breaks: Intervals make a cycle ride much easier. Make sure you take water with you and take breaks every 30 minutes at most. This will help you maintain your energy and enjoy the ride.
- Invest in proper cycling clothes: Try wearing padded cycling shorts, as even padded saddles don’t always provide enough comfort on longer rides. Comfortable cycling clothes can make all the difference in your riding experience.
- Enjoy the ride: Smile! Riding a bike is fun. Acknowledge fellow riders, and don’t worry too much about being the fastest or the greatest. Just enjoy a slow and steady pace, and take in the view.
- Stay safe: If you’re going out for a cycle on your own, make sure you tell someone where you’re going and how long it should take you. Safety should always be a priority when cycling.
- Choose the right bike: Ensure your bike is the right size for you. Visit a local bike shop for advice on proper bike sizing and fit.
- Learn basic bike maintenance: Knowing how to fix a flat tyre or adjust your brakes can save you from being stranded on a ride. Many bike shops offer maintenance classes for beginners.
- Use proper riding technique: Learn about correct posture, pedalling technique, and how to use your gears effectively. This will make your rides more enjoyable and efficient.
- Stay hydrated and fuelled: Always carry a water bottle and some snacks, especially on longer rides. Proper hydration and nutrition are crucial for an enjoyable cycling experience.
Why is cycling a great activity for beginners?
Cycling offers numerous benefits for beginners:
- It’s a low-impact form of exercise that’s easy on your joints
- Cycling helps improve cardiovascular fitness and builds strength
- It’s an excellent way to explore your local area and connect with nature
- Cycling can be a social activity when done with friends or cycling clubs
- It’s an environmentally friendly mode of transport
- Regular cycling can help reduce stress and improve mental wellbeing
Explore the Countryside with Holgates
At Holgates, we’re passionate about helping our guests explore the beautiful countryside surrounding our parks. Cycling is a fantastic way to do just that, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist. Our parks offer the perfect base for your cycling adventures, with comfortable accommodation to return to after a day on the trails.
Ready to start your cycling journey? Book your stay at one of our Holgates parks today and discover the joy of cycling in the stunning landscapes of Lancashire and Cumbria. Our friendly team is always on hand to provide local cycling tips and route recommendations.
Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to explore the great outdoors on two wheels – contact us now to plan your cycling getaway!