Saxton With Scarthingwell
Saxton With Scarthingwell
4.7
(211)
2,171
riders
163
rides
Touring cycling around Saxton With Scarthingwell features routes through the western Vale of York, characterized by undulating hills and a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. The area provides accessible cycling experiences, ranging from easy rides with minimal elevation to moderate routes with more significant ascents. Landscapes include grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands, alongside historical sites.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.5
(4)
38
riders
57.3km
03:26
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
34
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
7
riders
36.8km
02:16
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
6
riders
14.8km
00:49
10m
10m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Spectacular abbey for such a small town. Interesting info board describing the 19th Century cholera epidemic and associated graveyard, much like the one just outside the walls opposite York Station.
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Grade I listed building. The surviving fifteenth-century structures formed part of a fortified medieval palace belonging to the Archbishops of York, which was dismantled in the aftermath of the English Civil War. The only remaining parts of the castle are the gatehouse and the banqueting hall. Stones from the destroyed castle were used in the construction of surrounding houses. The foundations of some other structures do remain as well as the castle's cellar, which was excavated in the 19th century. The gatehouse served as a courthouse until the 1930s, before being used as an officers' mess and a building for the Home Guard during World War II. The first fortifications on this site are believed to be those built by King Athelstan in the 10th Century.
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Grade II listed swing bridge opened in 1872. The deck was submerged when the River Ouse flooded in 2015.
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Something that doesn't belong. Near the sign by the pedestrian gate...
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Open for all visitors (including sightseeing) from 10.00am to 4.00pm daily and the Gift and Coffee Shop is open from 10.30am to 3.30pm (1.30 to 3.00pm on Sundays). Visiting may be restricted during service times. https://www.selbyabbey.org.uk/
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There are over 170 touring cycling routes available around Saxton With Scarthingwell, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.
The terrain around Saxton With Scarthingwell is characterized by undulating hills, particularly on the fringe of the western Vale of York. You can expect a mix of mostly paved surfaces, with some segments that might be unpaved but still cyclable. Routes feature gentle ups and downs, offering frequent scenic views.
Yes, there are numerous easy touring cycling routes. For example, the Flat Road loop from Sherburn in Elmet is an easy 9.2-mile (14.7 km) path with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed ride.
The area is rich in history. You can cycle past the site of the Battle of Towton Battlefield, just a mile north of Saxton. Other historical points of interest include the remains of an 11th-century motte and bailey castle in Saxton, All Saints' Church (dating back to the 11th century), and the 19th-century Church of the Immaculate Conception in Scarthingwell. The Cawood Castle – Cawood Bridge loop from Sherburn-in-Elmet is a great option to explore historical areas.
Absolutely. The region is home to significant nature reserves. You can visit Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife with grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands. Another notable area is RSPB St Aidan's Nature Reserve. Scarthingwell Park also features an attractive lake. The RSPB St Aidan's Nature Reserve – View of Bowers Lake loop from Sherburn-in-Elmet is a good route to experience these natural highlights.
The routes in Saxton With Scarthingwell are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from nearly 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the blend of accessible paths and more challenging sections, and the scenic views that occasionally include glimpses of York Minster.
While specific dedicated cyclist parking isn't detailed, many routes start from nearby villages like Sherburn-in-Elmet or Church Fenton, where public parking options are generally available. It's advisable to check local parking regulations for your chosen starting point.
Saxton With Scarthingwell is within easy reach of both York and Leeds. Nearby villages like Sherburn-in-Elmet and Church Fenton, which serve as starting points for many routes, often have public transport connections. You can plan your journey to these villages to access the cycling network.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Saxton With Scarthingwell are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Cawood Bridge – York Racecourse loop from Church Fenton and the Optical Society – Cawood Bridge loop from Sherburn-in-Elmet.
The region offers enjoyable cycling experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and summer provide pleasant weather for exploring the natural landscapes and historical sites. Autumn offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage. While some routes are accessible year-round, it's always best to check local weather conditions before heading out, especially during winter.
The villages surrounding Saxton With Scarthingwell, such as Sherburn-in-Elmet, Tadcaster, and those closer to York and Leeds, offer various pubs, cafes, and accommodation options. These can be convenient stops for refreshments or overnight stays during your touring cycling adventure.
Yes, for more experienced cyclists looking for longer rides, there are routes like the Optical Society – Cawood Bridge loop from Sherburn-in-Elmet, which is a moderate 46.2 miles (74.3 km) path. These routes often include more significant ascents and require good fitness.


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