Any guide book recommendations? Cheers.
Vertebrate Graphics produce the only 'proper' mtb guide to the Lakes -
http://www.v-outdoor.co.uk/products/mountain-biking/lake-district-mountain-biking---essential-trails.phpI'd lend you my copy but I leave it up in the Lakes. Biketreks flog maps of routes at ludicrous prices too.
If you're staying near Ambleside I suggest two routes I think you'd like;
1. Ride down the west side of Windermere on a bridleway about 1/2 mile inland from the Lake from High Wray to Far Sawrey and then over a selection of obvious bridleways to Grisedale. Ride the North Face circuit then back up the way you've come but ride beside the Lake. All easy going but pleasant enough.
2. Ride the Langdale circuit in the book around Loughrigg, Langdale, Hodge Close, Iron Fell then loop back towards Ambleside via the Drunken Duck pub! Much more technical but far more fun. If you want more details PM me Dave.