Читать книгу Cycling in the Lake District. Week-long tours and day rides онлайн

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There may be lots of hostels, but there are also lots of hostellers, so it pays to book early. Hostels are always busy during the summer months and those in the more popular locations and along the route of the Coast to Coast (C2C) cycleway can be full at weekends, even in the depths of winter. The Youth Hostel Association – www.yha.org.uk – has a number of hostels in the Lake District and there is an increasing number of independent hostels – see www.independenthostelguide.co.uk or similar for lists. There is also a growing number of camping barns, but you would need to carry a three-season sleeping bag as they typically only provide a mattress. Some barns lack cooking facilities and others have no electricity, so it is imperative to check the facilities of every barn before you book.

Many of Visit England’s star-graded B&Bs, guest houses and hotels have enrolled with ‘Cyclists Welcome’ scheme and these are worth seeking out. Properties with the accreditation have drying facilities and bike storage and offer other services. Whatever you choose, if you want to arrive early to drop off your bike and go sightseeing or anticipate arriving later due to an unforeseen delay, it is only courteous to ring ahead and let them know. You should also remember that accommodation is in short supply and in the peak season even campsites can get full, so it is advisable to make a reservation as far ahead as possible. See Appendix B for a list of accommodation options.