The vast amount of beauty, history and adventure on show right here in the UK is evident when looking at the Lake District and what could be better than experiencing all of that while riding a motorcycle on some of the nation’s best roads?

Whether it is scenic views, riding on winding roads or even action-packed activities you seek in a motorbike tour, the Lake District has got it all. So, what exactly can you expect to see and do along the way and what will be needed to prepare for a trip to the Lakes?

Lake District Motorcycle Tour Route

Typical Lake District route.

Sprawling across County Cumbria in the north of England, the Lake District national park measures in at 912 square miles and is home to 16 lakes, 214 hills and mountains and a series of quaint towns and villages.

When enjoying the thrill of the ride through the Lake District there are a number of notable locations you will encounter. The two that stand out in particular and may be worth a closer look are the famous Lake Windermere, the largest lake in England and the mighty Scaffel Pike, England’s tallest mountain.

Despite the vast size of the national park, Lake District motorcycle tours have no defined route but typically consist of a distance anywhere between 150 and 200 miles. If you are happy to just view the sights while riding then the route could be completed in a day, but where is the fun in that? It is recommended to spend two days for the full experience and if you have some spare time you could even ride further north to the historic Hadrian’s Wall, a defensive fortification built by the Romans in 122 AD.

When Is Best To Go?

As is often the case with motorbike tours, the best times to take a trip to the Lake District are spring and autumn. Spring boasts the bloom of flowers and the boom of wildlife while the autumn colours make for some of the best scenery you are likely to see. Picture the lakes surrounding with vibrant wildflowers or against the backdrop of the eye-catching yellow and orange leaves and that is what will be on show in spring and autumn respectively.

The summer months are not a bad option when considering the scenery, weather and longer days, however, they are also the busiest months of the year for tourism. As for winter, it is best to be avoided due to less than ideal weather and the strong possibility of snowfall.

What Should You Expect To See?

The Lake District is sure to be one of the most stunning, scenic motorcycle rides you will ever encounter and despite its name, there is much more to the national park than bodies of water. It would be much too easy to go on all day describing the beauty of the area but thankfully, photos exist and you can check out the collection below.

Best Things To Do Along The Way

The scenery of the Lake District would be enough to rival any tour, but if you are someone who likes to pack as much action into a trip as possible then this route has that covered and the rest. Now, while water-based activities are a highlight of the Lakes, there is much more on offer and here is what you can get involved with:

Lake Cruise

Surely there can be no better way to see and experience the Lakes than getting out there yourself. Between March and October, Windermere Lake Cruises offer daily trips across the largest and most famous lake of them all and if you are feeling that bit more adventurous, there are even self-driving boats available. 

Hiking

In second thought, there may be a better way to see the lakes and that is the highest point in the country, Scaffel Pike. The 1,085 metre high mountain typically takes 3-4 hours to climb but once at the top, the views will be more than worth it.

Ravenglass 

Depending on the route you have chosen, you may pass Ravenglass, but regardless, it may be worth a detour. That is because it is home to ruins of a Roman bath house, fort and naval base which are proven to have housed soldiers serving under the famed Emperor Hadrian.

Castlerigg Stone Circle

While there is no shortage of stone circles throughout the British Isles, Castlerigg is a little different. Renowned for its beauty and surroundign ladnscape, this particular stone circle was described by archaeologist John Waterhouse as "one of the most visually impressive prehistoric monuments in Britain."

Water Activities 

This seems like a given considering the name of the area and the fact that is houses 16 large bodies of water, but what would be the sense in venturing to the lakes and not partaking in water-based activities. This could be anything from canoeing, paddleboarding and even white water rafting.

Market Towns

Just like lakes, there is certainly no lack of market towns here. Most of them are quaint and quintessentially English with markets that could have you believe you have been transported to another era. Why not stop off, sample some local food and drink and pick up a souvenir or two. 

How To Prepare For A Lake District Trip

Ultimately, it is important to pack with the weather in mind when setting off to the Lake District, you never know what that pesky Great British weather is going to throw your way and it is better to prepare for the worst than it is to not prepare at all.

Lockable motorcycle luggage that has the capacity to hold two helmets would not go amiss, especially when stopping off at busy locations, while it never hurts to have waterproof luggage cases. Due to the short nature of this trip, a lot less gear and cargo storage space is required, however, you may want to account for anything you pick up along the way.

Anyone that had not considered embarking on a Lake District motorcycle tour before may now be doing just that.

The main thing to keep in mind is ensuring you are fully prepared for all that lies ahead, allocating enough time to fully grasp the stunning views and immersive activities the area has to offer. There is no time like the present, so why not get out there and enjoy what is sure to be a trip to remember?