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Hawkshead bike hire

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Hawkshead

Hawkshead is a small village west of Lake Windermere. A popular place to stop when out for the day due to its local shops and cafes.

Leaving Hawkshead, there are many trails to explore for a range of abilities. There is a network of cycle routes that take you to famous locations such as Lake Windermere, Hill Top and Wray Castle. For the more experienced rider, there are fantastic routes towards Coniston and the Langdales.

Prices and booking

  • Electric Bike, full day, 10am-4pm: £60

*over 16s only, riders 16 and 17 to be accompanied by an adult*

Opening hours

Monday to Sunday: 09:30-16:30 (first hire 10:00)

How to find us

Hawkshead Bike Hire, Main Street, Hawkshead, Ambleside LA22 0NS.

What/Three/Words: bath.conspire.newest

Contact information

Bike size guide and fleet information

There are 8 electric bikes altogether in our fleet; two large, three medium and three small (two of the smalls are step through).

  • Large – 5’10” – 6’1″
  • Medium – 5’6″ – 5’10”
  • Small – 5’2″ – 5’6″
grey blue Scott e-mountain bike
Scott Aspect eRide Blue. Available in large, medium and small.
Green and brown Scott e-mountain bike
Scott Aspect eRide Green Step Through. Available in small only.
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Where to ride

Here are our recommended and most popular circular routes.

looking out through leaves to esthwaite water

Windermere and Esthwaite Cycle Trail

A clock-wise route from Hawkshead Information Centre along public roads and bridleways for Wray Castle, the peaceful Windermere shore trail, Claife Viewing Station and Hill Top.

 

View the trail PDF map
Grizedale Forest orange brown conifer trees

Grizedale Forest Cycle Trail

A clock-wise loop of Grizedale Forest on forest tracks and small roads. The Grizedale Forest Visitor Centre is about halfway round.  Though mostly through forest plantations, this area has a long history of iron making, farming, quarrying and woodland industries.

 

View the trail PDF map

Waymarked routes in Grizedale Forest

There are waymarked cycle trails in the forest, ideal for those who would prefer to be off road away from traffic. Discover art sculptures along your way and enjoy stunning views over Coniston water.

 

View, download the trail PDF map
three adults cycling on track amongst green woodland

Routes on OS app

Here are some out and back routes mapped on the OS app.

two hands holding folded paper os map and transparent compass

Printed route maps

Prefer a printed map? Download the PDF routes above and print at home – or pick up a copy on the day. We also have a good selection of OS Maps and cycling maps in our shop to buy.

Bike tours

Did you know Guided e-Bike Tours are also available from Hawkshead Cycle Hire? leave the map behind, hop on a ebike and explore the stunning National Park with an experienced guide.

Good to know

  • Under 18s hire to be booked by an adult over 18
  • You are responsible for bike/hire equipment
  • Wear appropriate clothing: breathable, loose fit, layers and light showerproof jacket
  • We don’t allow sandals/flip flops
  • Booked online? Please bring proof of ID
  • Show photo ID (driving licence/passport) if hiring an electric bike for security purposes

Places of interest nearby

More biking information

Landscape view of ennerdale water and surrounding fells on a sunny day. Adult male stood with mountain bike on ennerdale bridge

Cycle routes

Coniston boating centre jetty and docked boats on a sunny day. Fells and trees in background, reflected in the water below

Explore Southern Lakes

Aerial view of lake Windermere at sunset/ Purple blue lake, green woodland and fields, brown fells and buildings surrounding the lake. Motorised, sailing and small boats on the water.

Explore Windermere, Ambleside and Hawkshead

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