The best MTB trails around Holme Upon Spalding Moor

There are over a dozen mountain bike trails around Holme Upon Spalding Moor, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. The area features routes that traverse flat agricultural landscapes, former railway lines, and gentle wolds.

Yes, the area is well-suited for beginners, with 9 out of 14 routes classified as easy. An excellent option is the Melbourne Arms – Allerthorpe Common loop from Allerthorpe, which is an easy 15.9-mile (25.6 km) trail.

Trail lengths vary, but many routes range from approximately 10 to 34 miles (17 to 54 km). For example, the Newbald Wold Scenic Road – North Newbald Village Green loop from Newbald is about 10.6 miles (17.1 km), while the Brantingham Village Pond – North Newbald Village Green loop from Broomfleet extends to 33.7 miles (54.2 km).

Many of the easy and moderate routes that follow former railway lines are suitable for families, as they tend to be relatively flat and consistent. The generally low-lying topography of the region makes it accessible for various skill levels, including families looking for a pleasant ride.

You can expect varied terrain, primarily characterized by flat, agricultural landscapes, former railway lines, open common land, and gentle wolds. The routes often follow established paths, connecting small villages and offering views of the surrounding countryside. While generally low-lying, some routes include occasional slight inclines on the wolds.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 10 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the diverse routes that combine old railway lines with gentle wolds, providing a mix of surfaces and scenic views.

Yes, many of the trails are designed as loops, offering circular routes. For instance, the popular Market Weighton Town Centre – Old Railway Line Trail loop from Market Weighton is a 23.5-mile (37.9 km) circular trail.

While exploring the trails, you can find several points of interest. These include historical sites like All Hallows Church, Goodmanham, and Pocklington Canal. There are also natural monuments such as Kiplingcotes Chalk Pit Nature Reserve and Drewton Wold Weir.

Yes, there are 5 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge. A great option is the Old Railway Line Trail – Bishop Burton Wold loop from Goodmanham, an 18.3-mile (29.5 km) path that combines old railway lines with gentle climbs over Bishop Burton Wold.

The trails are generally accessible year-round. However, spring and summer offer the most pleasant conditions with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery. Winter rides are possible, but some paths might be muddy or wet due to the low-lying nature of the region.

The routes often connect small villages, which typically offer local pubs, cafes, or shops where you can find refreshments. Planning your route to pass through these villages can provide convenient stops during your ride.

While Holme Upon Spalding Moor is primarily a rural area, local bus services connect it to larger towns like Market Weighton and Pocklington. You would need to check specific bus routes and their bike carriage policies to plan access to the trailheads.