The Whinlatter Trails current status (updated 08/08/2024) :
Quercus Trail (Blue) – Open
Altura Trail North Loop (Red) – Open
Altura Trail South Loop (Red and Black) – Open
Gorse Cycle Trail (Grey) – Open
Whinlatter Pass open as normal presently. Read More
Bike Hire
Cyclewise Whinlatter Bike Hire
Bike Hire in the Lake District – Discover Off-Road Adventures at the UK’s Premier Trail Centre
Experience the thrill of mountain biking with our top-notch bike hire services at Whinlatter Forest, one of the UK’s leading trail centres. Located near Keswick, Whinlatter Forest Trail Head is your gateway to four stunningly graded MTB trails, set in a breathtaking forest landscape.
We offer a diverse selection of high-quality mountain bikes, including hardtail, full suspension, and electric bikes, available for either 3-hour or full-day rentals. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer, our well-maintained bikes and scenic trails promise a fantastic adventure for all skill levels.
Explore the Lake District’s premier mountain biking destination and make the most of your outdoor adventure with our reliable bike hire service.
Trail Information:
Please Note: The availability of all of our mountain bikes is subject to change. New 2024 mountain bikes are continually added to our hire fleet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, however, we definitely recommend booking in advance for weekends and holidays.
Yes, definitely! You are welcome to bring your own helmet or hire one from us for £5 for the day. All hire bikes are supplied with a complimentary helmet.
It is UK Law that you must be at least 14 years of age. More information can be found here.
With 1000ft of ascent some degree of fitness is required.
The Gorse Trail is our simplest trail when it comes to trail features – 90% of the trail is on double-track hard-pack-gravel forest road, and only 10% of the trail is on a simple Blue grade single-track ascent.
There is very little reception around the forest, for this reason we recommend you do not rely on it.
Yes, It is the hire person’s total responsibility for the safe custody and return of the bicycle.
In the event of loss or damage caused to the bike during the period of hire this must be paid for, e.g., from the moment you leave the hire centre to the moment you return the bike to one of our staff members.
If your bike is faulty, it must be returned within 30 minutes of hire. After that no refunds can be given.
For bookings more than 48 hours prior to the hire reservation, we can either move your booking to an alternative date or provide a refund less 2% card transaction fees.
In the event you have to cancel less than 48 hours prior to the hire reservation, we can move your booking to an alternative date. No refund is available.
All of our hire bikes are fitted with flat pedals, we don’t have any SPD/clipless pedals on our hire bikes. However, feel free to bring your own SPD/clipless pedals, and we are more than happy to fit them for you. Don’t forget your SPD/clipless shoes!
The Graded Trails
Grey Grade - Forest Road and Similar
- Grey graded trails are suitable for: cyclists in good health. Map reading useful (routes not always marked).
- Gradients or technical trail features: gradients can vary. Surfaces may be uneven or potholed in places. Mostly 3m wide light-gravel double-tracks.
- Suggested fitness level: a moderate level of fitness and stamina helps.
Blue Grade - Intermediate Trail
- Blue graded trails are suitable for: intermediate cyclists or mountain bikers with basic off-road riding skills.
- Gradients and technical trail features: most gradients are moderate but might include short steep sections. Includes small technical trail features (such as roots and rock).
- Suggested fitness level: a good standard of fitness can help.
Red Grade - Difficult Trails
- Red graded trails are suitable for: proficient mountain bikers with good off-roading skills.
- Gradients or technical trail features: a wide range of climbs and descents of a challenging nature will be present. Expect boardwalks, berms, large rocks, medium steps, drop-offs, cambers and water crossings.
- Suggested fitness level: a higher level of fitness and stamina is required.
Black Grade - Severe Trails
- Black graded trails are suitable for: expert mountain bikers with high level of fitness.
- Gradients or technical trail features: greater challenge & difficulty. Expect large & unavoidable features, boardwalks, berms, large rocks, medium steps, drop-offs, cambers and water crossings – please note, there are no gapped jumps, all features are rollable with the correct technique.
- Suggested fitness level: a higher level of fitness and stamina is required.
Other Information
The Bike Trails
Bike Hire in the Lake District – Whinlatter Forest England
Whinlatter offers several graded singletrack trails and one forest road trail. All trails on site require a good standard of fitness due to the variable gradient of the terrain.
What To Wear & Bring?
Helmets are provided with every hire bike, although you are welcome to bring your own.
We recommend wearing trainers, sports clothing and dressing appropriate to the weather conditions.
A small rucksack is advisable so you can carry water, snacks and personal items.
Gloves are available to purchase in store, they are worth bringing if you have them, especially on chilly days.
Whinlatter Facilities
- Play Areas
- Walking Trails
- Running Trails
- Adventure Activities
- Picnic area
- Cafe
- Toilets
- Shop
- Dogs allowed
The main car park is on a ‘Pay on Exit’ system and is open 8.30am to 5.30pm. More details.
Mountain Biking Information
Location
Searching for the perfect spot to hire bikes in the Lake District? Look no further than our trailhead at Whinlatter Forest Park, conveniently located near the charming town of Keswick. Our park provides an outstanding setting for a memorable family outing, perched at an impressive 1,000 feet above sea level. Whinlatter Forest Park is home to England’s only genuine mountain forest, and it proudly features the longest network of purpose-built mountain bike trails in the entire Lake District.
As you venture through our extensive and meticulously designed bike trails, you will be treated to some of the most breathtaking scenery the region has to offer. Enjoy panoramic views of iconic landmarks such as Bassenthwaite Lake, Derwentwater, Helvellyn, and Skiddaw. Our trails are suitable for all skill levels, from seasoned mountain bikers to beginners, and we provide a range of MTB skills courses for individuals and families/groups to ensure you get the most out of your adventure.
Come and experience firsthand why Whinlatter Forest Park stands out as the premier destination for bike hire in the Lake District!
The Trails
Discover the diverse trails at Whinlatter Forest, perfect for all ages and skill levels. Choose from:
- The Gorse Trail: Ideal for beginners and families.
- The Quercus Trail: A moderate option for more experienced riders.
- The Altura Trail: Designed for advanced mountain bikers seeking a challenge.
For detailed trail information and to plan your visit, click here.
At Whinlatter, Cyclewise offers expert guidance from a friendly and knowledgeable team. Whether you’re looking for advice on the best trails or need assistance with mountain bike hire, they are ready to help.
Group MTB Hire with a Guide is also available, providing a fantastic way to explore the trails with professional guidance. Contact us to book your group adventure today.
