Little Langdale

Head into the heart of the Lake District on this mostly off-road, but easy to follow route through the wooded Tilberthwaite valley. Cross (or ford if you’re brave) the River Brathay to rise up to Little Langdale hamlet for a pub lunch. Strenuous climbing up to the old green slate quarries at Hodge Close is then rewarded with a freewheeling descent back to the Yewdale fell side track and the head of Coniston Water.

Start/finish: Pay & display car park in Coniston next to TIC and toilets. Alternative parking at the Sports & Social Centre near Shepherd Bridge.

Grade: Short-Challenge. Off-road is rough in places so favours mountain bike use.

Refreshments: Three Shires Inn in Little Langdale (015394 37215) and Yew Tree Farm tearoom (015394 41433) turn L at Shepherds Bridge.

Public loos: Monk Coniston car park (head of lake)

Nearby

• Hotels and B&Bs
• Self-Catering Places
• Camping & caravanning