Grizedale is a Lake District staple because it offers a broad spread of riding styles in one place: graded routes, longer linking tracks, and a feel that can shift from trail-centre structure to more natural “Lakeland” texture depending on where you ride. For eMTB riders, it’s a strong venue for full days out because pedal-assist helps you cover more of the network and makes it easier to combine multiple routes into one ride without the climbs dominating the day.
It’s also a venue where you can tailor the ride to the group. Beginners can stay on easier, more predictable surfaces, while experienced riders can choose more demanding loops and chase speed where the trail supports it. With bike hire available in the forest and visitor-centre infrastructure, Grizedale works well for visitors and for riders who want a reliable plan A even when weather is mixed. Like all forest venues, winter and wet conditions shift the difficulty upwards—roots, slick surfaces and puddled hollows become part of the day—so it’s worth building in time and choosing tyres accordingly.
Key information
| Web address | https://www.forestryengland.uk/grizedale |
| Post Code | LA22 0QF Get Directions |
| Uplift / entry cost (adult) | £0 entry (no uplift; parking charges apply) |
| Pass options | Forestry England membership can reduce parking costs (check terms) |
| Bike hire eMTB hire | Yes (operator-led; available in-forest) Yes (hire operator lists electric bikes) |
| Parking | Up to 20 mins free; first hour £2.60; +£0.55 per 15 mins; max £10 |
| eMTB policy | EAPC/pedal-assist suitable; follow grading and shared-use guidance |
| Trails | Graded forest MTB riding with scope for longer, mixed-route days |
| Uplift type | None |
| Best for | Full-day eMTB rides; mixed-ability groups; progression on graded routes |
Facilities
Cost and uplift
No uplift. Parking is pay-on-exit with the published tariff above.
Bike hire
A Grizedale-based hire operator lists standard and electric bikes (hardtail or full suspension), with duration typically based on time/battery for e-bikes. Book ahead for peak dates.
Parking and arrival
Grizedale is popular year-round. If you want a quieter ride, arrive earlier and avoid late-morning weekend starts.
Trails and riding style
The riding is varied: steady linking tracks plus proper MTB-feel segments. You can build either a steady endurance day or a more lap-focused ride around the more “fun” trail sections.
Facilities
Expect visitor centre services relative to other forest sites.
What to know before you go
Wet conditions increase braking distances and make roots more unpredictable; adjust speed and choose tyres accordingly.
Last updated: January 2026