Tour of Binsey

Route Essentials

Route Overview

The shapely hill of Binsey is a bit out on a limb. It sits in perfect isolation detached from its closest neighbours in the Caldbeck Fells by deep drops on all sides. This detachment however pays dividends for views, for from its airy summit and all around its flanks the views are stunning and wide ranging. Take in the elegant rolling crests of the northern fells on one side, and on the other peer out over the coastal strip towards the Irish Sea and the Solway Firth. For mountain bikers sadly there is no right of way to the summit; however a novel loop of bridleways and lanes that circumnavigate Binsey provide a fascinating ride right around its base.

Route Details

1. From the centre of Cockermouth head to High Ireby (GR NY 228 371) and the start of the ride.

2. From the road end join the bridleway and follow it west southwest then northwest for 1.5km to a T junction.

3. Turn left and follow the bridleway for 800m to the start of another bridleway on the left.

4. Join this bridleway and follow it south southeast across the flanks of Binsey to join the lane after a hairpin at Fell End.

5. Turn left onto the lane and take it east to a T junction. Turn left and follow the road to another T junction at Ruthwaite. Turn left again and follow the road back to the start in High Ireby.

Route Information

Route Map

• Start point: NY 122307 (near Cockermouth)