Appleby loop visiting Great Dun Fell & Haweswater

This is a difficult road cycling route, rated as a 'Hard road ride' requiring 'very good fitness'. The ascent of Great Dun Fell Climb is particularly challenging, often compared to Alpine ascents, with an average gradient of 8.4% over 7.5 kilometers and sections reaching 15-20%. The final 1.5 miles are exceptionally steep.

The road surface on the Great Dun Fell Climb is generally in excellent condition. However, the descent from Great Dun Fell is described as fast and technical. The section along Haweswater is a single-track road, which can be wild and desolate, and some parts may feature unpaved or difficult-to-ride segments.

The loop typically starts and ends in Appleby-in-Westmorland. You can find public parking options within the town to begin your ride.

The best time to cycle this route is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when weather conditions are more stable and daylight hours are longer. Be aware that the exposed nature of Great Dun Fell means it can be very windy and cold even in summer, and weather can change rapidly.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route within the Lake District National Park. However, please respect local regulations, private land, and the natural environment.

Key highlights include the challenging Great Dun Fell Climb with its distinctive radar station and expansive views, the picturesque View of Haweswater and the Haweswater Dam, and the Scenic Road Between Dufton and Milburn. The starting point, Appleby-in-Westmorland, also offers amenities.

This route is designed for road cycling and is not typically considered suitable for dogs to accompany cyclists. If you are looking for dog-friendly activities in the Lake District, it's best to explore walking trails or specific dog-friendly attractions.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it covers sections of the Lakes & Dales Loop, the Great North Trail (North Pennines and Kielder Forest), and the Pennine Cycleway.

The starting point, Appleby-in-Westmorland, has cafes and pubs. However, once you are on the more remote sections, particularly around Great Dun Fell and Haweswater, amenities are very limited. It's advisable to carry sufficient food and water for the duration of your ride.

The Great Dun Fell Climb is renowned as the highest tarmac road in the UK, reaching an elevation of 848 meters. The top half of the road is closed to cars but remains open to cyclists, offering a unique and challenging ascent to the summit with its distinctive golf-ball-shaped radar station.

The descent from Great Dun Fell is known to be fast and technical. A significant hazard to be aware of is the presence of freely roaming sheep on the road, especially in the lower sections. Always maintain caution and be prepared to slow down or stop.