4.5
(311)
17,455
riders
477
rides
Road cycling routes around Carlton traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, well-paved country roads, and varying elevations. The area offers scenic views of valleys and landmarks typical of the English countryside. Cyclists can expect a mix of gentle gradients and more challenging climbs, with routes often passing through agricultural land and small villages.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
5.0
(5)
121
riders
38.6km
01:52
460m
460m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
43
riders
34.3km
01:46
550m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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5.0
(1)
21
riders
38.6km
01:59
570m
570m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.9
(16)
278
riders
47.0km
02:13
560m
560m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3.0
(1)
262
riders
44.1km
02:00
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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The southern end of the Ilkley Old Bridge is highly famous as the official starting point of the Dales Way.
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Lindley Wood is a compensation reservoir, which means it is not linked to the supply of water to homes but is there to take excess water from Fewston and Swinsty reservoirs, which are nearby. This is why there is not much water in there.
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Enjoy beautiful cycling on a smooth, well-paved road that winds through the peaceful Stainburn Moor.
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This reservoir is one of the oldest in the Washbourn Valley; it was built between 1869 and 1876. The other three reservoirs here are Thruscross, Swinsty and Fewston. Walking around the reservoir is a truly aesthetic, soul-beautifying experience. The green wooded banks, woodland and reservoir paths and open countryside... what else would anyone want in life?... oh, sunsets here are unbelievable.
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The Old Ilkley Bridge is a packhorse bridge over the River Wharfe. It was built in 1675 to replace the ford which took the Roman road across the water. It is especially beautiful on a sunny day with the light reflecting off the water onto the bridge. On the southern side of the bridge you will find the start of the Dales Way. An 80mile hike all the way to Lake Windemere in Cumbria.
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Almscliffe crag is a millstone grit rocky outcrop that has been designated an Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It is also sometimes known as Almscliff Crag or Great Almscliff Crag (the little one is three miles north west of here). There are 545 climbing and bouldering routes on the crag so you're likely to see climbers out on the rock.
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Great place to watch rock-climbing and gaze over Yorkshire
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Lindley Wood Reservoir was the first of the four reservoirs in the Washburn Valley to be built. It was constructed by navvies between 1869 and 1876. In the summer of 2022 it dried up exposing a cracked mud bed. Lindley Wood acts to take in excess water from nearby Fewston and Swinsty Reserviors. As the country was in drought, there was no excess water to fill it.
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There are over 500 road cycling routes available around Carlton, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Yes, Carlton offers nearly 100 easy road cycling routes. These routes typically feature well-paved country roads and gentler gradients, perfect for those new to road cycling or looking for a relaxed ride. An example of an easy route is the Old Ilkley Bridge – View of Wharfedale loop from Guiseley.
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Carlton has over 110 difficult road cycling routes. These often include significant climbs and varied terrain, providing a rewarding experience. The region's rolling hills and varying elevations ensure plenty of opportunities for a strenuous ride.
Road cycling routes around Carlton traverse the picturesque English countryside, characterized by rolling hills, well-maintained country roads, and scenic valleys. You'll often pass through agricultural land and charming small villages, with views across moorland and river valleys like the Washburn Valley.
Yes, many routes offer views of local landmarks and natural features. For instance, you might encounter reservoirs like Eccup Reservoir or Lindley Wood Reservoir. Some routes also provide vistas of iconic spots like The Tarn on Ilkley Moor or pass by areas like Almscliffe Crag.
The English countryside around Carlton is generally pleasant for road cycling from spring through autumn. While specific data isn't provided, milder weather and longer daylight hours typically make these seasons ideal. Winter conditions can be more challenging due to colder temperatures and potential for wet roads.
Many of the popular road cycling routes around Carlton are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Ilkley Moor and the Chevin loop from Otley and the Otley loop to Washburn Valley.
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Carlton, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 300 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained country roads, the variety of terrain from gentle gradients to challenging climbs, and the picturesque views of the English countryside and valleys.
Routes like the Ilkley Moor and the Chevin loop from Otley offer expansive views across moorland and valleys. The Almscliffe Crag – View of the Valley loop from Guiseley also provides excellent panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Absolutely. The Washburn Valley is a prominent feature in many road cycling routes. You can explore its scenic beauty on routes such as the Otley loop to Washburn Valley or the more challenging Washburn Valley hilly loop from Otley — Nidderdale.
Yes, Carlton offers numerous routes that cater to longer distances. For example, the Almscliffe Crag – View of the Valley loop from Guiseley covers nearly 47 kilometers, providing a substantial ride through varied terrain.


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