The best cycling routes around Clifton-On-Yore
4.8
(169)
733
riders
140
rides
Touring cycling around Clifton-on-Yore, North Yorkshire, offers varied routes through scenic landscapes. The region is characterized by the meandering River Ure, rolling hills, and open valleys, providing a picturesque backdrop for exploration. Situated within the expansive North Yorkshire countryside, the area provides access to diverse natural beauty, including both gentle river valleys and more challenging ascents. This makes it a compelling destination for touring cyclists of varying skill levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Clifton-On-Yore
- The most popular touring cycling…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.9
(13)
19
riders
21.4km
01:15
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(12)
18
riders
33.4km
02:00
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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13
riders
30.7km
02:14
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(11)
12
riders
32.1km
02:02
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
riders
91.3km
05:57
1,290m
1,290m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
One side of the reservoir is road, the other is a fantastic bridleway
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St Mary’s Church at Studley Royal Park is one of the most striking examples of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in the region. Designed by William Burges in the 1870s, the church is breathtaking inside and out, with intricate carvings, rich stained glass, and dramatic decoration throughout. The craftsmanship and attention to detail are extraordinary, making this church not only a place of worship but also a work of art. Its location within the deer park adds to the sense of tranquillity, and it is well worth a visit for anyone interested in architecture, history, or simply beautiful spaces. The church was actually born out of tragedy, it was built in memory of Frederick Vyner who was kidnapped and murdered in Greece in 1870. While travelling near Marathon, he and others were taken hostage by brigands demanding ransom. A failed rescue attempt led to his death, and his grieving family* used the unspent ransom money to build two churches in his memory – Christ the Consoler at Newby Hall and St Mary’s at Studley Royal. *Frederick’s mother, was Lady Mary Vyner, and his sister (Henrietta), was married to George Robinson who later became 1st Marquess of Ripon, the owner of Studley Royal).
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Lovely Yorkshire town with an excellent marketplace, masham bakery and 2 breweries. We visited the black sheep brewery briefly and were rewarded with Holy Grail Ale, delicious
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The Church of St Mary, Studley Royal, is a Victorian Gothic Revival church built in the Early English style by William Burges
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This is a beautiful road to cycle down that follows the entire length of the reservoir. It's surrounded by rolling hills and farmland and provides great views of the Nidderdale Valley.
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A television series that I can wholeheartedly recommend presents the culture-loving viewer (in German) with remarkable examples of human creativity from many countries around the world. What they all have in common is that they have been given "World Heritage" status by UNESCO. * "A park, gnarled trees, twisted by the wind, as if by a giant's hand. Herds of fallow deer and roe deer graze in the tall grass. In the valley, nature is reflected in an artificial lake district: the visitor stands in Lord Aislabie's "Watergarden". Small Greek temples and Gothic turrets are also reflected in the water, because in the 18th century it was fashionable to decorate the parks of noble country estates with Greek temples and Gothic turrets - real ruins were very popular. And the Lord had a really magnificent ruin in his park. If you walk along the well-kept park paths by the stream that flows through the artificial lakes, you will see "Fountains Abbey" or what is left of what was once the largest English Cistercian monastery in Yorkshire, an impressive ruin." is written on the media library's website. The corresponding film contribution (in German) can be found at the following link => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/der-park-v-studley-und-die-ruinen-von-fountains-abbey-gb-folge-197/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MDM1MzE0
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Clifton-on-Yore?
There are over 140 touring cycling routes around Clifton-on-Yore, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in the Clifton-on-Yore area?
Yes, the Clifton-on-Yore area offers a good selection of easy touring cycling routes. There are 31 routes classified as easy, perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride through the scenic North Yorkshire countryside. A great option is the Snape Castle – Bedale Market Town loop from Thornton Watlass, which is 21.4 km long and explores local historic sites.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Clifton-on-Yore?
Touring cycling around Clifton-on-Yore is characterized by meandering river valleys, rolling hills, and rich country lanes. You'll find routes that traverse gentle river valleys as well as more challenging ascents, providing a diverse landscape for exploration. The broader North Yorkshire area, including nearby Yorkshire Dales National Park, offers everything from flat arable lands to demanding Dales terrain.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes near Clifton-on-Yore?
Many of the touring cycling routes around Clifton-on-Yore are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Masham Market Square – Bedale Market Town loop from Masham is a moderate 33.4 km path that offers a relaxed ride through varied landscapes.
What are some interesting places to explore or landmarks to see along the cycling routes?
The region around Clifton-on-Yore is rich in history and natural beauty. You can cycle past the historic Clifton Castle, which incorporates remains of a 14th-century castle. Other nearby attractions include the intriguing The Druid's Temple, the beautiful Harmby Waterfall, and the unique Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park. Many routes offer views of the River Ure and the picturesque countryside.
Are there any routes that pass by waterfalls?
Yes, the region features natural attractions like waterfalls. While cycling, you might find yourself near Harmby Waterfall, a scenic natural monument located about 10.4 km from Clifton-on-Yore. Another notable natural feature is Hackfall Wood, which also contains a waterfall.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Clifton-on-Yore?
The North Yorkshire countryside, including Clifton-on-Yore, is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring offers vibrant displays of bluebells in woodlands, while summer provides pleasant conditions for longer rides. Autumn brings stunning foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as the Dales can be unpredictable.
Are there any cafes or pubs along the touring cycling routes for a break?
While Clifton-on-Yore itself is a small parish, the surrounding market towns and villages like Bedale and Masham, which are often part of the cycling loops, offer various cafes and pubs. Routes like the Cover Bridge Inn – Danby Hall loop from Thornton Watlass might pass by local establishments, providing opportunities for refreshments.
What are the options for parking when cycling in the Clifton-on-Yore area?
When planning your touring cycling trip, consider starting points in nearby villages or market towns that offer public parking facilities. While specific parking for Clifton-on-Yore routes isn't detailed, areas like Thornton Watlass, Masham, or Bedale, which serve as common starting points for these routes, typically have parking available for visitors.
Can I use public transport with my bike to access routes near Clifton-on-Yore?
Public transport options for bikes in the North Yorkshire Dales can be limited. While some bus services may accommodate bikes, it's advisable to check with individual operators beforehand. For broader cycling route information in North Yorkshire, you can consult the North Yorkshire County Council's cycle routes map.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the broader North Yorkshire area, including access to the Yorkshire Dales National Park, offers demanding terrain. While the routes directly from Clifton-on-Yore listed here are mostly easy to moderate, with 33 routes classified as difficult in the wider region, you can find routes with significant ascents and long distances, such as those leading through the Dales.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Clifton-on-Yore?
The touring cycling routes around Clifton-on-Yore are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 140 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from gentle river valleys to rolling hills, and the picturesque backdrop of the North Yorkshire countryside. The network offers options for both relaxed rides and more challenging routes, making it appealing to a wide range of touring cyclists.
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