Drunken Duck

The Drunken Duck route is a classic loop that starts by heading over towards Tarn Hows, cutting back to High Arnside, Tilberthwaite and the quarry, Red Bank and descend Loughrigg Terrace to Ambleside. There is a bit of road to start as you head from Brathay, up past the Drunken Duck Inn towards Hawkshead Hill. Just before you reach the Hill, you’ll take a bridleway that cuts back in the direction you came. Take that and head towards High Arnside. Half way along this section you have the choice of taking ‘Iron Keld’ which climbs up to right and spits you out on the Coniston Road (A593) after a superb lengthy descent. It’s a great add on and you gain height quickly for some stunning views. At High Arnside cross the A593 and head through Tilberthwaite quarry and eventually out to the road by the Wainwright Inn at Elterwater. Here you’ll climb Red Bank (road climb) over to the top of Loughrigg Terrace where you’ll descend and finish with a little flat pedal back to Ambleside.

What you’ll need for this ride:

Trail snacks and water.
You shouldn’t need a stop off on this ride but if you fancy a pint and a bar snack you can either drop in to the Drunken Duck Inn or the Wainwright Inn, both great boozers. Particularly good on a summer’s day in the beer gardens. Note: The climbs gets harder the more pints you have.
Check the mountain weather beforehand and make sure you have enough layers and a waterproof jacket in case of emergencies. Use our Lake District Mountain Weather guide for weather updates.
Spares – make sure you have the basics; tubes, tyre levers, pump, allen keys and chain tool as a minimum – make sure you have the tools to make any necessary trail side repairs.
Charged mobile phone & camera.

Where to park:

Park opposite Brathay Hall (LA22 0HP). This area is free to park but isn’t huge and is first come first served. Kayakers use it regularly too so it can get busy. You could also park up the road at the Drunken Duck Inn but it may be polite to have a pint first.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this website is to give information only rather than advice. These are only rough guides and suggestions. It is impossible for us to say whether a particular route is suitable for you. It is your sole responsibility to decide whether to ride a route and you do so entirely at your own risk. It is your responsibility to research every route, download a GPX file, take traditional OS maps, carry the correct gear, ensure that your bike is safe for purpose, check the mountain weather and let someone know where you are heading and your estimated return time. Please use common sense and help us cut down on Mountain Rescue call outs.

Drunken Duck
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Drunken Duck

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Drunken Duck

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