A series of new, dedicated circular gravel cycling routes has officially launched in the North York Moors. The new routes have been designed in celebration of the North York Moors as a cycling destination, with three new routes showcasing some of the best scenery of the National Park.
The first of the new routes is the Moorland Meander – a 15-mile easy route that starts on the Fort Trail then onto the Cleveland Way. The route continues on towards Kepwick Bank, Arden Hall and more, showcasing the best of the Western moors.
Another new route is the 24-mile Rievaulx Raider – combining rich history with a waterside ride, passing along the River Rye watershed towards Rievaulx Abbey and quaint villages such as Hawnby and Old Byland. Lastly, the Hambleton Horizon begins at the Sutton Bank National Park Centre, offering 30 miles of dramatic scenery with some steady climbs through Hambleton, the local villages and the crescendo of the finest view in England – as famously named by James Herriot.
The new routes range from easy to moderate, respectfully, offering a little something for all abilities.
Each route can be done on a gravel, mountain, or off-road hybrid bike fitted with suitable tyres, and follow existing bridleways and gravel tracks. The new routes join four other existing cycling routes advised by the North York Moors National Park – including routes through Hutton le Hole and Kirkbymoorside, Scarborough, Dalby Forest and Ravenscar.
Cycling writer Guy Kesteven, who has helped create the routes comments: “I’ve been lucky enough to ride the North York Moors my entire life. These three routes provide a true taste of the rich off-road cycling available in a really accessible way and with options for all appetites.
“They’re all carefully curated to showcase the incredible views, fascinating history, local hospitality and amazing diversity of landscape from wild moorland to stunning secret valleys that make the North York Moors such a special place to explore on a bike.”
See the routes here.
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