94 | Cycling World
The Other Side
of Cumbria
C
ontrary to popular belief, there is more to
Cumbria than the imposing ake istrict. Tourism
in the area is almost exclusively based around
the stunning scenery that the District boasts,
with rolling hills and gentle valleys being an exciting
prospect for hikers, cyclists and dog walkers.
But take a little detour to the east, and the quiet market
town of Kirkby Stephen is a cyclist’s haven, with three
marked routes to follow, all of which start at the Tourist
nformation Centre in the town. The rides tend to be hilly
it is close to the ake istrict, after all , light on traffic
and will treat you to some amazing views. You might
find the uphill struggle a little tiresome at first, but once
you reach the top and take in the surrounding scenery,
your woes will seem insignificant in comparison. And an
exhilarating trip back down the other side will more than
make up for any exertion you may have previously felt.
Route One
This km ride begins at the pper den isitor Centre
which is easily located on Market Street in the town.
The visitor centre also provides free car parking and
so is ideal for those that have driven into the area with
the specific intention of attempting this bike ourney.
The route is based completely on roads and is not
recommended for beginner cyclists.
Start by heading north up to the second mini roundabout
and turn right. You should soon come to a junction which
will be signposted with blue
and
signs. Turn left
here and then bear right as you cycle through the Winton
district.
Keep an eye out for those blue signs, since they will help
you navigate your way, turning left, then right and left
again as the signs indicate.
As you enter Barras, turn right, which will take you
through a tunnel. Once through this, turn right onto
Church Brough. Follow the signs to Brough Castle, and
if you have time, take a wander around this English
Heritage site, which was restored in the 17th century.
Once you have satisfied your historic curiosity, continue
on through the village, cycling over a bridge and onto a
fenced pathway.
The A will require you to cross over a few slip roads, so
do so with care, before turning left at the clock tower and
left again into Great Musgrave. Continue straight ahead,