The 5 Best Cycling Routes in Yorkshire

Yorkshire is made for cyclists. It encompasses beautiful scenery, rolling hills and many a local pub for a chance to refuel. We’ve rounded up the Yorkshire’s best cycle routes, all of which are perfect for a day trip or even as part of a longer tour.

Muker – Askrigg Loop

Distance: 27km
Elevation: 648m
Map: Download here

This loop through the Yorkshire Dales will take your breath away – both through its beauty and steep climbs! Don’t worry, though, you’ll be rewarded with many a downhill to make up for it.

You can start anywhere along the route, but the largest villages are the loop’s eponymous Muker and Askrigg. Both have several B&Bs and hotels if you’re looking to make a night of it – and some great pubs if you’re passing through.

It’s a smooth journey (much of it is paved with tarmac) but a hilly one. On the way, you’ll encounter a piece of Hollywood history in Hardraw Force – a waterfall which featured in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and was visited by poet William Wordsworth. It’s well worth the trip!

Harrogate to Ripley

Distance: 7km
Elevation: 68m
Map: Download here

This route’s perfect for a family trip. Around 4 miles and flat the whole way, it can be completed by cyclists of all ages. Beginning in Harrogate, you’ll cycle along a well-trodden path through meadows and woodland to the historic town of Ripley.

Otley to Bolton Abbey

Distance: 37km
Elevation: 639m
Map: Download here

Starting in the pretty market town of Otley, this route will take you through beautiful scenery along quiet country roads. At 52km, it’s not short – it’ll take a good few hours to complete. But you’ll appreciate the square meal at the end even more!

Bolton Abbey sits in around 30,000 acres of green park land. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, or meet with friends and family once you’ve completed your ride.

Aire Valley Towpath

Distance: 26km
Elevation: 210m
Map: Download here

This route takes you along one of the longest canals in the country. Beginning in Leeds and ending at Bingley on the outskirts of Bradford, it offers a unique view of the UK’s captivating industrial history.

This includes the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saltaire. The Victorian model village was once owned by Sir Titus Salt, a major industrialist who was one of the first to recognise the importance of factory workers’ wellbeing. He built a range of quality housing and introduced educational and social services to the village during the 19th century.

But it’s not all factories and warehouses. You’ll pass through beautiful countryside and also take advantage of the numerous villages along the way – such as Apperley Bridge – which offer great spots to rest and refuel.

Lofthouse and Leyburn

Distance: 126km
Elevation: 1,754m
Map: Download here

The longest of our 5 suggestions, this is a tough ride that takes in some of the World Championships route. Starting just outside Harrogate and looping back past Knaresborough, Masham, Leyburn and Pateley Bridge, you’ll need to set aside the best part of a day for this one.

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