The Keswick Mountain Festival takes place from the May 14-18, and this year’s event is set to include a big element of mountain biking. As well as the likes of mountaineers Chris Bonnington and Doug Scott making an appearance, there will also be a number of guided mtb rides and the chance to test bikes from the like of Nicolai, Pace, Cove, Cotic and Merida. Cycle Active will be offering a number of ‘taster’ skills courses and KE Adventure Travel has confirmed it will do a number of talks about its range of mtb adventure holidays. There is a Trailquest National Championship and also a shorter event for mortals. And there will also be a triathlon and many other sporting events for outdoor enthusiasts. Could this be a sign that the sport of mountain biking is finally being embraced by the mountaineering community within the Lake District? Let’s hope so.
www.keswickmountainfestival.co.uk