When it comes to cycling, our part of the world has a particular claim to fame. Having hosted the Tour de France Grand Depart in 2014, we now have the annual Tour de Yorkshire to enjoy, bringing the world’s best athletes to the dales, moors, villages and cities of the region.
If you prefer to be on two wheels rather than watching other people on them, there are plenty of options available. So how can you find the best cycling routes in Yorkshire?
Luckily for you, we’re here to help. With our local knowledge and experience, we’ve put together our Visitor’s Guide to the Best Cycling Routes in Yorkshire.
Best bike rides in Yorkshire for experienced cyclists
Based on the route of the Grand Depart in 2014, the Tour de France du Dales is a challenging ride with the reward of spectacular scenery. It covers 125km around the Dales, including the famous Buttertubs Pass. Click here for the map.
If you’re interested in going further afield, The Way of the Roses bike ride travels from Lancashire to Yorkshire. Beginning in Morecambe, it covers 275km across the Yorkshire Dales, on to the Vale of York and finishing at Bridlington on the east coast.
Alternatively, stay right on our doorstep at Abbots Green with a ride on Route 657 from Thirsk to Easingwold. Pack a picnic, and don’t forget your camera – it’s some of the most beautiful countryside in the world (in our opinion!).
Best family bike rides in Yorkshire
There are few bike rides more suitable for families than the Nidderdale Greenway – not least because of the famous ice cream shop at one end! It takes you from Harrogate town centre along a former railway, across the stunning Nidd Gorge and into the charming village of Ripley. There, you’ll find the historic Ripley Castle with its gift shop and tea room, along with the Boar’s Head pub (a great spot for lunch), Hutchinsons butchers, an art gallery and more. Make sure you visit the Village Store for fresh food and delicious ice cream, too.
Did you know you can cycle around the solar system? Well, you can as long as you’re in York, where a 10km route has been set up with models of all the planets – all made and spaced to scale. Start at Pluto, to the south of York in the village of Riccall, and finish when you reach the sun on the south-west outskirts of the city. Click here for details.
Best places for cyclists to visit in Yorkshire
If you’re a cycling enthusiast and you’re up in the Dales, you have to stop by the Dales Bike Centre in Swaledale. It has everything you could need, from bike hire and a shop to repairs, bike wash and shower cubicles. There’s also B&B accommodation if you’re making a longer trip, and a cafe – plus free wi-fi for catching up with the outside world.
With the Tour de Yorkshire approaching, now is the time to decide where you’re going to watch the action. You could easily cycle from Abbots Green down to Masham or Ripon to see the riders race past. Alternatively, head to Harrogate where the fan zone will have big screens, stalls and live entertainment – plus both the women’s race and the men’s stage two crossing the finishing line right outside Bettys. For full details of all the action and the best spots to watch, go to the Visit Harrogate website.
If you’re a keen cyclist we can recommend spending some time in one of our luxury holiday lodges in North Yorkshire. We offer try before you buy and have a selection of exclusive holiday lodges for sale in North Yorkshire and lodges to hire.
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