The best road cycling routes around Angram Reservoir

The road cycling routes in the Angram Reservoir area offer a range of difficulties. Most routes are classified as moderate, with 9 out of 11 routes falling into this category. There is also one easy route and one difficult route, providing options for various skill levels.

Route lengths vary, but many popular options are between 18 and 45 miles. For example, the Coverdale Road – Coverdale Valley loop from St Botolph is about 18.6 miles (29.9 km), while the Pateley Bridge – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop from Lofthouse covers approximately 26.2 miles (42.1 km). Longer rides, such as the Back Road to Bolton Abbey – Bolton Priory Ruins loop from Kettlewell with Starbotton, extend to over 45 miles (73.9 km).

Yes, there is at least one easy-rated road cycling route available. While most routes are moderate, the region offers options suitable for those new to road cycling or looking for a less strenuous ride. It's always recommended to check the specific route details for elevation gain and terrain before heading out.

The Yorkshire Dales, including the Angram Reservoir area, are generally best for road cycling from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, you can expect milder weather, longer daylight hours, and less chance of snow or ice, making for more enjoyable and safer riding conditions.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Angram Reservoir are designed as loops, offering circular journeys. Examples include the Coverdale Road – Coverdale Valley loop from St Botolph, the Pateley Bridge – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop from Lofthouse, and the Gouthwaite Reservoir – Pateley Bridge loop from Lofthouse.

The routes traverse the varied landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales, featuring rolling hills, open moorland, and scenic valleys. You'll encounter a mix of gradients, from gentle valley roads to more challenging climbs, often on quiet country lanes. The scenery is predominantly rural, with expansive views across the Dales and picturesque backdrops of reservoirs like Angram, Scar House, and Gouthwaite.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 20 reviews. Road cyclists often praise the scenic reservoirs, the rolling Dales valleys, and the open moorland. The network is appreciated for offering options for different ability levels and for its generally quiet country lanes.

While specific highlights are not detailed in this guide, the routes often pass by significant natural features like Scar House Reservoir and Dam, and Gouthwaite Reservoir. Longer routes, such as the Back Road to Bolton Abbey – Bolton Priory Ruins loop from Kettlewell with Starbotton, can take you near historical sites like Bolton Priory Ruins, offering opportunities to explore beyond just cycling.

There are over 10 road cycling routes available for exploration around Angram Reservoir, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels to suit different preferences.

Yes, while many routes are moderate, there is at least one difficult-rated route available for advanced road cyclists. These routes typically feature significant elevation gain and longer distances, providing a more demanding experience within the Dales landscape.

The weather in the Yorkshire Dales can be unpredictable. Be prepared for changeable conditions, including wind, rain, and cooler temperatures, even in summer. Always check the forecast before your ride and carry appropriate layers, waterproofs, and sun protection. Winters can bring snow and ice, making many routes challenging or impassable.