The best traffic-free bike rides around High And Low Bishopside
4.5
(8)
317
riders
9
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around High And Low Bishopside are situated within the Nidderdale National Landscape, offering diverse terrain for road cyclists. The area features a mix of valley bottoms, challenging ascents like the Greenhow Hill Climb, and well-paved surfaces. The landscape is characterized by limestone formations, gritstone rocks, and the River Nidd, providing varied scenery for cycling. This region provides a network of routes suitable for different fitness levels, from leisurely rides to demanding climbs.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around High And Low Bishopside
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Gouthwaite Reservoir – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop from Pateley Bridge, a 25.2 miles (40.6 km) trail that takes 2 hours 37 minutes to complete. This route features scenic reservoir views and moderate elevation changes.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Back Road to Bolton Abbey – Bolton Priory Ruins loop from Pateley Bridge, a difficult 38.2 miles (61.5 km) path. This route includes significant elevation gain and passes by historical ruins.
- Local road cyclists also love the Pateley Bridge – Studley Royal Deer Park loop from Pateley Bridge, a 26.8 miles (43.1 km) trail leading through varied countryside and past a World Heritage Site, often completed in about 2 hours 11 minutes.
- Road cycling around High And Low Bishopside is defined by the Nidderdale National Landscape, challenging climbs, and varied terrain including limestone and gritstone features. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult rides.
- The routes in High And Low Bishopside are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 8 reviews. More than 300 road cyclists have used komoot to explore High And Low Bishopside's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(5)
59
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
23
riders
61.5km
03:14
980m
980m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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25
riders
43.1km
02:11
680m
680m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
13
riders
48.2km
02:27
760m
760m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
11
riders
15.9km
00:42
100m
100m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Other adventures around High And Low Bishopside
Tips from the Community
The southern end of the Ilkley Old Bridge is highly famous as the official starting point of the Dales Way.
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One side of the reservoir is road, the other is a fantastic bridleway
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Quintessentially pretty market town, arrive early to find suitable parking, best place is next to the showground on the southern side of the bridge over the River Nidd. Honesty box only (no payment cards), cheap at £1 up to 4 hours and £2 all day (spring 2025 prices). The southern end of Nidderdale around Pateley Bridge has one of the densest concentrations of public footpaths in North Yorkshire, so loads of routeing options. See the North Yorks public rights of way map at https://maps.northyorks.gov.uk/connect/analyst/mobile/#/main?mapcfg=Out_and_About
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Great views both up and downstream, with parking on both sides of the bridge. The car park on the southern side, next to the cricket pitch and showground, is quite big and now relies on an honesty box for payment.
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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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Visit on a bike and no payment for parking. Miles of walking . Nice cafe. The estate is owned by the Duke of Devonshire and is open to visitors who pay to park. Fascinating area, with loads of history. Monastery was founded in 1120 as a priory. The Embassy and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway runs from here. The Dales Way passes through the estate. It gets really busy during the summer when visitors bring picnics and paddle in the river.
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Beautiful spot, with plenty of birds and other wildlife to see. A parking and picnic area is next to the road with a viewing platform.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in High And Low Bishopside?
There are 9 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in High And Low Bishopside, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels for a peaceful ride.
Are there any easy, traffic-free road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there is one easy route perfect for beginners or a relaxed family outing. The Pateley Bridge – Gouthwaite Reservoir loop from Pateley Bridge is a gentle 15.9 km ride with minimal elevation gain, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without significant challenge.
What kind of scenery can I expect on these no-traffic road cycling routes?
The routes wind through the stunning Nidderdale National Landscape, offering diverse scenery. You'll experience tranquil valley bottoms, picturesque villages, and views of limestone landscapes and gritstone formations. Many routes follow quiet country lanes, providing a true escape into nature.
Are there any challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are two difficult routes. Consider the Back Road to Bolton Abbey – Bolton Priory Ruins loop from Pateley Bridge, which covers 61.5 km with nearly 1000m of elevation gain, testing your fitness on sustained climbs.
What do other cyclists say about the no-traffic road cycling in High And Low Bishopside?
The no-traffic road cycling routes in High And Low Bishopside are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the quiet country lanes, the stunning natural beauty of the Nidderdale National Landscape, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the no-traffic road cycling routes?
Many routes offer access to interesting landmarks. For example, the Pateley Bridge – Studley Royal Deer Park loop from Pateley Bridge passes by the historic Studley Royal Deer Park and St Mary's Church, which is part of the Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal World Heritage Site. You can also find routes near The Druid's Temple, an intriguing 19th-century folly.
Where can I park my car when starting a no-traffic road cycling route in High And Low Bishopside?
Pateley Bridge, often considered the 'Capital of Nidderdale,' serves as a central hub and starting point for many routes. You'll find various parking options within the town, making it convenient to access routes like the Gouthwaite Reservoir – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop from Pateley Bridge.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes available?
Yes, all the listed no-traffic road cycling routes in High And Low Bishopside are circular, meaning you'll finish your ride back at your starting point. This makes planning your day much easier, especially if you're starting from Pateley Bridge.
What is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in High And Low Bishopside?
Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in High And Low Bishopside, with warmer weather and longer daylight hours. However, the scenic beauty of the Nidderdale National Landscape can be enjoyed year-round, with autumn providing vibrant colours and winter offering crisp, quiet rides, though conditions may be more challenging.
Can I find cafes or pubs along these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Many routes start or pass through Pateley Bridge, which boasts a thriving high street with cafes and pubs. Additionally, some routes venture through other villages in the Nidderdale National Landscape, where you may find opportunities for refreshments. For example, the Pateley Bridge – Masham Market Square loop from Pateley Bridge takes you to Masham, known for its market square and local amenities.
Are there any routes that feature reservoirs or water bodies?
Yes, several routes incorporate the region's beautiful reservoirs. The Gouthwaite Reservoir – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop from Pateley Bridge offers stunning views of both Gouthwaite and Scar House Reservoirs, providing a picturesque backdrop for your ride.
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