A 190 mile cycle route taking in two National Parks and some of the most scenic landscapes across Cumbria and the Yorkshire Dales will be officially today, Tuesday 8 March.

From towering peaks and rolling green valleys to the hidden treasures of Morecambe Bay, the Lakes and Dales Loop is a circular route which will appeal to a range of cycling interests and abilities. It has been brought to life with new signage and branding, supported by the 'See More Cumbria and the Lake District' sustainable travel programme.

The on-road route is a significantly revised and revitalised version of the former Cumbria Cycleway, which was opened in 1980 but, over the next 15 years, became too busy with traffic to be actively promoted as a recreational cycleway.

The new Lakes and Dales Loop uses quieter lanes, following the boundary of the Lake District National Park on its north, west and south sides. It then completes the loop by linking the Lune and Eden Valleys to the east, and passing through the new extensions into the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The aim is to promote the new Lakes and Dales Loop as an internationally recognised cycle route, offering both experienced leisure cyclists and 'hard challenge' riders the chance to experience a range of spectacular landscapes, distinctive heritage and rich culture. This diverse circular route ties together two popular visitor destinations – the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales – to offer a distinctly different journey for people to make on two wheels.

The suggested start and finish point at Penrith is also easily accessible for cyclists travelling to Cumbria on the train via the West Coast mainline.

The opening of the new Lakes and Dales Loop will be officially marked with an inaugural bike ride in the Orton area on Tuesday 8 March, to celebrate the new signage being put into place for cyclists.

A downloadable map of the full 190 mile route is available at: www.lakesdalesloop.co.uk