Cycling Grizedale Forest to Hawkshead via Satterthwaite

Discover a memorable Lake District cycling route through Grizedale Forest, Satterthwaite and Hawkshead, combining peaceful woodland trails, quiet country roads, challenging climbs and classic Lakeland scenery.

Starting in the heart of Grizedale Forest in South Cumbria, this cycling adventure heads south towards Force before looping back along the opposite side of the valley. The return journey passes through the peaceful village of Satterthwaite, continues through the beautiful landscapes of Grizedale and eventually finishes in the historic village of Hawkshead.

It’s a varied ride that captures many of the things that make cycling in the Lake District so special.

Cycling Through Grizedale Forest

Grizedale Forest provides a spectacular setting for the beginning of the journey. Surrounded by woodland and the rolling landscapes of the southern Lake District, the area offers a mixture of forest scenery, countryside routes and more demanding sections for cyclists looking for a rewarding day outdoors.

Leaving Grizedale, the route travels south towards Force, with the surrounding landscape gradually opening up to reveal views across the countryside.

There are plenty of opportunities along the way to slow down and appreciate the scenery before tackling the next section of the ride.

Riding Through Satterthwaite

After turning north on the opposite side of the valley, the route makes its way towards Satterthwaite.

This small Lakeland village sits close to Grizedale Forest and provides a peaceful contrast to some of the Lake District’s busier destinations. Quiet roads, traditional countryside and surrounding woodland make this part of the journey particularly enjoyable.

From Satterthwaite, the ride heads back into the landscapes of Grizedale Forest, where woodland surroundings and rolling terrain accompany the route north.

Finishing the Ride in Hawkshead

The final destination is Hawkshead, one of the Lake District’s best-known historic villages.

Reaching Hawkshead provides a fitting end to the journey after travelling through the forests, valleys and countryside of South Cumbria. Its traditional Lakeland character makes it an excellent destination to finish a day of cycling and exploring.

Grizedale Forest Cycling Route Highlights

Start: Grizedale Forest
Route: Grizedale → Force → Satterthwaite → Grizedale Forest → Hawkshead
Finish: Hawkshead
Location: Lake District, Cumbria, England
Terrain: Woodland trails, quiet country roads, rolling countryside and climbs
Highlights: Grizedale Forest, Force, Satterthwaite, Lakeland scenery and Hawkshead

Exploring the Lake District by Bike

Cycling around Grizedale Forest and Hawkshead is a fantastic way to experience a quieter side of the Lake District. The combination of woodland, countryside lanes, climbs and traditional villages creates a varied journey through some of South Cumbria’s most attractive landscapes.

This route is ideal for cyclists who enjoy getting away from busy roads and discovering places where the journey itself is as rewarding as the destination.

Whether you’re a local rider searching for a new route, planning a cycling trip to the Lake District, or looking for inspiration for your next UK cycling adventure, the journey through Grizedale Forest, Satterthwaite and Hawkshead offers beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities to experience the Lake District from two wheels.

From peaceful forest surroundings to classic Lakeland villages, this cycling adventure showcases exactly why the Lake District remains one of the UK’s most rewarding destinations for outdoor exploration.