Keswick High Pass and Lakes Loop

The most mountainous of the Keswick rides: a long reservoir beneath a high ridge, a pass between two valleys, a famously high road down to a long lake, and a quick fast run home. It is a classic of the national park, packed with big scenery.

The southern half is slow, with busy village streets and two short narrow links that lead onto the pass, so take them gently. The northern half is quick and open, but fuel is scarce on the second half. Aim for a weekday in spring or autumn, as the pass is crowded on summer weekends.