Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve
Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve
3.9
(14)
54
riders
14
rides
Mountain biking in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve offers routes through a landscape characterized by open common land, woodlands, and relatively flat terrain. The area, located near Selby, provides accessible paths suitable for various skill levels, with a focus on natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. The trails often follow established cycleways and paths, making them ideal for those seeking a relaxed ride through a protected natural environment.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
2
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(11)
36
riders
29.7km
01:28
70m
70m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
2
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
1
riders
44.2km
02:23
90m
90m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
46.4km
02:31
110m
110m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lots of signage on this route. Some directional and some informative.
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A fallen tree was blocking the whole cycle path this morning. It is reported that it came down yesterday in the late afternoon. Great care is required; it can be navigated with difficulty.
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Built in 2001 for over £4m, the York Millennium Bridge is a pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Ouse in York, England. It connects New Walk to Terry Avenue, south of the city centre, and is part of a popular circular walking route. The bridge was designed to shorten the walking and cycling routes for people in the South Bank area of the city to the University of York and the city centre. If you are a pedestrian, then keep your wits about you. Cyclists will not give you any room and will not slow down either.
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Don't visit in winter. Very good chance it will be under water, or sludge after the River Ouse floodwaters have receded. Bearing that in mind, YCC and the keepers do a pretty good job of maintaining the park. The park was created in memory of employees of Rowntree's who died in the First World War, and was opened on 16 July 1921 by local entrepreneur and philanthropist Joseph Rowntree. Upon their purchase in 1919, the 17 acres of land cost £1,500. The park now covers an area of 25 acres, with it being extended in 1926/7 with the purchase of Clementhorpe allotments, and further in 2000 with the purchase of Butcher Terrace football fields. The gates at the riverbank entrance are eighteenth-century and were given by the company as a memorial to the people of York who died in the Second World War. There are further commemorative plaques on the dovecote. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rowntree_Park
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The bridge over the River Ouse features a single leaning arch with cables fanned out like bicycle spokes, symbolizing its purpose as a key link for walkers and cyclists.
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Crosses the racecourse. A good view of what the horse & jockey might see on a race day 👍
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There are 15 mountain bike trails available in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve, offering a range of options for different skill levels.
Yes, Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve is well-suited for beginners, with 9 easy mountain bike trails. These routes often follow dedicated cycleways and offer gentle terrain, such as the Solar System Cycleway – Solar System Cycle Route loop from Riccall.
The trails in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve are generally accessible year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter riding is possible, but some paths may be muddy or wet, so appropriate gear is recommended.
Yes, many of the trails in Skipwith Common are suitable for families due to their easy difficulty and relatively flat terrain. The dedicated cycleways, like the Solar System Cycle Route – Solar System Cycleway loop from Skipwith, are particularly popular for family outings.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Solar System Cycleway – Millennium Bridge York loop from Riccall, which offers a scenic circular ride.
The terrain in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve is characterized by open common land, tranquil woodlands, and dedicated cycleways. You can expect mostly flat or gently undulating paths, making it suitable for a relaxed ride through a protected natural environment.
While Skipwith Common itself is a nature reserve, there are villages nearby, such as Skipwith and Riccall, which offer local pubs and cafes where you can refuel after your ride. These are typically a short distance from the common's access points.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil surroundings, the well-maintained cycleways, and the opportunity for a relaxed ride through nature.
Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve primarily offers easy to moderate trails. There are 6 moderate routes, such as the Rowntree Park – York Millennium Bridge loop from Riccall, which provide a slightly longer or more varied experience, but the area does not feature technically difficult or advanced mountain biking terrain.
Parking is available at various access points around Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve. Specific parking areas are often indicated on local maps or within the komoot tour details for individual routes, such as those starting from Skipwith or Riccall.
The longest mountain bike trail in the area is the Rowntree Park – Solar System Cycleway loop from Riccall, which spans approximately 28.8 miles (46.3 km) and offers a moderate challenge.


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