Summer is officially here which means our roads are once again brimming with cyclists searching for a little bit of adventure.

There is no feeling like it either, getting out on the open road in search of a mountain or view to conquer, it is often lauded as one of the great British pastimes. 

It is clear to see why as well, there are some areas in the UK that are quite simply a cyclist's dream, for all ages and levels.

You're not going to be wanting to tackle the Alps every weekend, are you? No, you'll want steady variety from which you can pick as you please (and a good pub at the end if possible).

Cumbria is one of those destinations in the UK, much like Snowdonia, where cyclists can really be put through their paces - but are rewarded handsomely for their efforts.

The views, nothing quite like it.

With that in mind, we've put together a small list with help from Komoot, to give you 8 of the best cycling routes to try in Cumbria this summer:

Derwentwater, Buttermere & Honister Pass loop from Keswick ­­— Lake District National Park

Expert

Time: 02:32

Distance: 22.2 mi

Incline: 2,225 ft

Expert bike ride. Very good fitness is required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Windermere, Elterwater & Grasmere loop ­­— Lake District National Park

Intermediate

Time: 02:40

Distance: 23.8 mi

Incline: 1,425 ft

Intermediate bike ride. Good fitness is required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The Tour includes a crossing by ferry.

Buttermere, Crummock Water & Derwent Water loop ­­— Lake District National Park

Expert

Time: 03:11

Distance: 26.6 mi

Incline: 2,900 ft

Expert bike ride. Very good fitness is required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

From Ulverston to Rampside Lighthouse loop

Intermediate

Time: 04:02

Distance: 39.8 mi

Incline: 1,200 ft

Intermediate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

A circumnavigation of Coniston Water from Coniston village ­­— Lake District National Park

Intermediate

Time: 01:53

Distance: 18.2 mi

Incline: 1,025 ft

Intermediate bike ride. Good fitness is required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

River Sprint & Kentmere loop from Kendal ­­— Lake District National Park

Intermediate

Time: 02:14

Distance: 21.3 mi

Incline: 1,150 ft

Intermediate bike ride. Good fitness is required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Wastwater & Seascale loop ­­— Lake District National Park

Intermediate

Time: 02:22

Distance: 23.8 mi

Incline: 1,075 ft

Intermediate bike ride. Good fitness is required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hardknott & Wrynose passes loop from Dalegarth Station­­ ­­— Lake District National Park

Expert (steepest road in England)

Time: 03:56

Distance: 30.4 mi

Incline: 4,100 ft

Expert bike ride. Very good fitness is required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.