Cycle Routes & FAQs

Yes, you can cycle around Kielder on the Lakeside Way shared use path. It’s not a cycling specific trail, so you will share it with walkers, hikers, equestrians and other cyclists!

Bike Hire Kielder is located right in the middle of the trail at the Kielder Waterside site, with parking available.

The route is shown below or viewed here: https://www.forestryengland.uk/kielder-castle/lakeside-way-kielder

Think about what you would like to do. Our Dutch Style Step-through Ebikes are perfect for enjoying the lakeside way. They have a relaxed comfortable position, and the electric assist will allow you to enjoy taking in the view! If you want more of a challenge, take a mountain bike or gravel bike on the lakeside way or into the forest for an adventure.

If you want to try the any of the blue, red or black MTB routes you will need a mountain bike. Our Ridley Hardtail MTBs are lightweight, quality bikes which are prefect for the trails at Kielder.

The full lakeside way is 26.4 Miles (44km) so it’s not a short distance. If you’re a fit, confident cyclist it can be completed in 2.5/3hrs without stopping. It is worth allowing a full day to take in the full lakeside way, with time to stop off for refreshments and to take in the view.

Yes, you can cycle in Kielder Forest BUT you must be aware that this is one of the largest working forests in Europe – heavy machinery operates throughout the forest and sections of the forest may occasionally be closed for works. Always obey signage, and check where you intend to ride is open before heading out without Forestry England: www.forestryengland.uk/kielder-castle

Please check if sections of the Kielder MTB trails are closed with Forestry England.

Kielder is a remote area with no mobile phone service, so make sure you’re prepared. Water, Suncream, a map, trainers, gloves, snacks are all great to bring. It’s essential you bring a map if you are going exploring. We have equipment you can buy at BHK, including maps, suncream and some basic spares. Helmets are included with each bike.

Following some extensive storm damage during storm Arwen, sections of Kielder Forest Including MTB Trails and Forest Roads are still closed. Check with Forestry England’s website for updates.

https://www.forestryengland.uk/kielder-castle/cycling-and-mountain-biking-trails-kielder

We have kids mountain bikes available which are perfect for the easier MTB routes at Kielder or the Lakeside Way.

We’re closed during the weekend of the Kielder Marathon – the Lakeside way is closed to all but participants, so we’ll have the weekend off!