The best traffic-free bike rides around Ripley
4.7
(215)
10,810
riders
185
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Ripley, North Yorkshire, traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, woodlands, and converted railway paths. The region features the Nidderdale Greenway, offering flat, traffic-free sections suitable for cycling. Natural features include sandstone rock formations like Brimham Rocks and scenic reservoirs. This area provides diverse cycling environments with varied gradients.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Ripley
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Bilton Greenway – View of Knaresborough Viaduct loop…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
5.0
(4)
37
riders
41.3km
02:33
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
30.3km
02:01
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
riders
68.3km
04:27
960m
960m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
66.7km
04:40
1,080m
1,080m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Popular around Ripley
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Tips from the Community
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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If you are enthusiastic enough to walk around all three reservoirs (Thruscross, Fewston, and Swinsty), clocking in at 15 miles, then you will see that Thruscross has the most spectacular dam of the three. If you follow the track from the car park at the western end of the dam, to the south towards the River Washburn, a track that descends quite steeply, then you will be rewarded with imposing views of the face of the dam.
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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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Riding from the top is much more enjoyable, coasting all the way while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
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The long, stunning driveway at Studley Royal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Ripley?
There are over 190 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Ripley, catering to various skill levels. This includes 32 easy routes, 94 moderate, and 66 difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for every cyclist.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these traffic-free routes?
The terrain around Ripley is diverse. In Derbyshire, you'll find rolling hills, agricultural land, and woodlands, with former railway paths like the Ripley Greenway offering flat, tarmac surfaces. North Yorkshire features routes like the Nidderdale Greenway, also a tarmacked old railway line, alongside more challenging routes with significant elevation gains, especially towards areas like Brimham Rocks.
Are there any family-friendly traffic-free cycling routes in Ripley?
Yes, both Ripley locations offer excellent family-friendly options. The Ripley Greenway in Derbyshire is flat and tarmac-surfaced, ideal for families. In North Yorkshire, the Nidderdale Greenway (Harrogate to Ripley Cycleway) is a 4-mile tarmacked route, perfect for a leisurely family ride, passing through scenic landscapes and leading to Ripley Castle.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along these routes?
Around Ripley, North Yorkshire, you can cycle past the historic Ripley Castle, explore the dramatic sandstone formations of Brimham Rocks, or visit the stunning Studley Royal Water Garden. In Derbyshire, routes might take you near the Midland Railway – Butterley or Heage Windmill, offering unique historical insights.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Ripley are circular. For example, the Bilton Greenway – View of Knaresborough Viaduct loop from Ripley offers a moderate circular ride. Another option is the Ripley Castle – Bilton Greenway loop from Ripley, which is also a moderate circular tour.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ripley?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience around Ripley, with an average score of 4.66 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the beautiful countryside views, and the variety of historical and natural attractions accessible by bike.
What are the best seasons for touring cycling in Ripley?
Spring and summer are generally ideal for touring cycling in Ripley, offering pleasant weather and lush landscapes. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. While some routes are accessible year-round, winter cycling may require more preparation due to colder temperatures and potentially wet or icy conditions, especially on less maintained paths.
Are there options for advanced cyclists looking for a challenge?
Absolutely. For advanced cyclists, there are several difficult routes with significant elevation gains. The Hollybank Lane – Brimham Rocks loop from Ripley, for instance, covers over 68 km with nearly 1000 meters of ascent. Another challenging option is the Thruscross Dam – Hollybank Lane loop from Ripley, which features over 1000 meters of climbing.
Are there any lakes or reservoirs to see along the routes?
Yes, the region boasts several scenic water bodies. In North Yorkshire, you can find Lake at Studley Royal Water Garden, Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, and Lumley Moor Reservoir. Derbyshire routes often feature views around Butterley Reservoir, part of the Cromford Canal system.
Where can I find cafes or pubs along the no-traffic routes?
Many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. For example, the Nidderdale Greenway leads directly to Ripley village, which has tearooms and other amenities near Ripley Castle. It's always a good idea to check local listings for specific establishments along your chosen route.
Is public transport available to access these cycling routes?
Ripley in North Yorkshire is well-connected by bus services from Harrogate, which can help access the Nidderdale Greenway. For Ripley in Derbyshire, local bus services connect to surrounding areas. It's advisable to check specific routes and timetables with local transport providers to plan your journey and ensure bike carriage is permitted.
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