After making himself a household name as an Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth triple jump champion, Jonathan Edwards has since switched the sandpits for the saddle, and has chosen some of his best cycling locations in the Lake District.
We love his choices, so we’ve selected our favourite mountain and road biking routes from his top Lake District spots, which we think you’ll wheelie like!
1. Coniston Loop – For the year round riders.
Difficulty: Medium
Length: 14.94 miles
By Mountain Biking UK
Enjoy a route that starts and end in Coniston itself, with the trails providing a good mixture of technical sections that will provide entertainment for the more seasoned riders, without scaring off those with less experience.
2. Strawberry Bank – For the Pub lunchers
Difficulty: Medium
Length: 10.28 miles
By BBC Countryfile Magazine
Take a scenic bike ride starting at one of the Lake Districts best pubs, which gives you one of the best possible views over the water of Windermere and the legion of trees making up Grizedale Forest.
3. Ennerdale Water – For a short and sweet cycle (£)
Difficulty: Medium
Length: 3.75 miles
By Cycle City Guides
This route offers a charming ride through woodland on stone forest roads, while also supplying dramatic sights over Ennerdale water and the surrounding fells. Mountain bikes are recommended.
4. Borrowdale – For the hike-a-bikers
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 14.2
By Mountain Biking UK
With a total climb of 1,160m (3,806ft), you need to be well prepared with the right bike, gear and skills before taking on Rossett Pike.
5. Keswick, Crummock Water & Newlands Pass – For the hill climbers (£)
Difficulty: Very Hard
Length: 16.25 miles
By Cordee
Explore the area to the southwest of Keswick, with its views across Lorton Vale, Mosser Fell and Loweswater Fell. Riders will be met with one of the toughest climbs in the area before a long descent back down the valley to Keswick.
Remember, before undertaking any of these routes, make sure you are in the right physical condition to do so, plus the correct equipment and good riding skills are a must.
Visit ViewRanger for more routes in the UK and abroad!
The original interview in which Jonathan Edwards discussed his favourite areas in the Lake District was conducted by Victoria Monk for the Telegraph Travel.