Cycling at Kielder Water
Kielder Water and Forest Park, Northumberland
- Independent UK guide
- Free to use
- Affiliate links clearly labelled
- Updated October 2026
What to expect
The Lakeside Way is a 26-mile circuit around Kielder Water, England's largest man-made lake, mostly on forest tracks and paths. The route passes sculptures, viewpoints and quiet coves, with plenty of places to stop, and it can be done in sections. The forest park also has mountain bike trails for all levels, and is well served by bike hire.
Tips before you go
- Plan for a full day if you want to do the whole circuit.
- Bring food and water, as cafes are limited.
- Check which sections are open, as some are seasonal.
Book or plan it
Prices and availability change, so compare. These are affiliate links.
Where to base yourself
Castles, empty beaches, dark skies and Hadrian's Wall
A weekend in HexhamNorthumberlandAn abbey town in the Tyne Valley, the best base for Hadrian's Wall
What to pack
Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.
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More kit guides: Wet-weather gear Walking gear Cycling gear
Related activities
Hadrian's Wall Path is an 84-mile National Trail across northern England, but you can enjoy short sections in a weekend.
Kielder dark sky stargazingKielder Water and Forest Park, NorthumberlandKielder Water and Forest Park is part of the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, with some of the darkest and clearest skies in England.
Blakeney Point seal tripBlakeney and Morston, NorfolkBlakeney Point is a long sand and shingle spit on the north Norfolk coast, and a nature reserve with large colonies of grey and common seals.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Lakeside Way?
The full circuit is about 26 miles, and takes most cyclists four to six hours.
Last reviewed October 2026. Prices, opening times and conditions change, so check with the provider before you go. Report an error or share a tip.