The top 5 best cycle routes in Yorkshire and what to wear on a long ride
Based in the heart of England, Yorkshire brings avid cyclists back year on year due to its gorgeous landscapes, quiet roads, cycling infrastructure and routes for all abilities. There’s definitely something here for everyone, whether you want to see some achievements on your sports watch, or prefer a gentle pootle - our blog has a route to suit you all.
Of course, we will provide some outdoorsy outfit choices (we don’t want you to have a flared trouser chain encounter!) to keep you comfortable on your Yorkshire adventure.
Top 5 Best Cycle Routes in Yorkshire
Yorkshire's green landscapes offer some of the most picturesque cycling routes in Britain. Our cycle routes will link to Kamoot/os maps, where you can read it up in more detail and share with friends! Let's get straight into some cracking routes and get you properly kitted out for your travels!
Nidderdale Greenway
Soak in the views on this gentle ride (approx. 4 miles)
Perfect for little legs and those just finding their pedalling feet, this disused railway line path provides a smooth ride with spectacular views. The highlight has to be crossing the viaduct over Nidd Gorge – a proper Instagram moment if ever there was one! With its flat terrain and well-maintained path, it's suitable for cyclists of all abilities. Pop on our lightweight hiking trousers for this one – pockets for snacks are essential with the little ones in tow! You won’t end in the same location you start for this journey, so make sure you either have a ride waiting for you, or be prepared to cycle back another 4 miles!
York to Selby
An adventure through history (approx. 14 miles)
Fancy a bit of time travel while you pedal? This traffic-free former railway line takes you through centuries of Yorkshire history. The ‘Cycle the Solar System’ artwork can be found on this route, providing 10.4km scale model of the solar system, whereby the planets are proportionally the correct distance from one another. It’s no surprise that this makes for a brilliant educational pit stop if you're bringing the kids along. At 14 miles, it's a decent stretch of the legs but remains suitable for all abilities thanks to its flat profile. Again, this isn’t a circular route, so make sure you either have a driver to pick you up, alter the length slightly, or be prepared to double the distance to get back to the start!
Our breathable base layers are perfect for this longer jaunt – keeping you comfortable without overheating.
Dalby Forest Trails
Choose Your Own Adventure in the Woods! (various lengths)
Dalby Forest is a proper cycling playground with options for every family member. For those with younger riders, the Adderstone GREEN Trail and the shorter Ellerburn GREEN Trail offer family-friendly terrain through gorgeous woodland. As well as easier routes, there are a few that are for expert mountain bikers too, like the UCI World Cup trail (definitely not for the faint-hearted)!
There’s something for everyone here, so if you have a large family that might want to choose their own path, this is the right location. The dappled sunlight through the trees creates a surreal atmosphere – just the place to test out our water-resistant jackets when there's a bit of morning dew about!
Whitby to Ravenscar
A ride where the most repeated question is, “Can you see the sea yet?”! (approx. 11 miles)
This gem along the former railway line (now known as the Cinder Track) delivers coastal panoramas that'll have you stopping every few minutes for photos. The mostly flat terrain makes it accessible for most people, though there are a few gentle climbs to navigate. Pack a picnic and make a day of it – our cargo shorts with those handy extra pockets are brilliant for stashing sandwiches and sweet treats for a clifftop lunch.
The Lines Way
See nature in full force (approx. 11.8 miles)
With an impressive 96% of this route being traffic-free, this former railway line, riverbank and canal towpath adventure is a proper treat. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife at RSPB St Aidens, and take a breather at the charming Woodlesford Locks. Our lightweight waterproof jackets fold away perfectly into those pannier bags when the Yorkshire sun decides to make a surprise appearance!
What to wear cycling
So, you've picked your Yorkshire cycling escapade? Great! Now let’s discuss what to wear.
Always go for comfort
When you're spending hours on a bike, comfort isn't just nice to have – it's absolutely essential. Let’s be honest, the difference between an epic day out and a miserable one often comes down to what you're wearing!
The bottom line (quite literally)
For longer rides, padded Lycra shorts (bib shorts) are worth their weight in gold. They prevent chafing (nobody wants that particular brand of suffering), wick away sweat, and most importantly, provide cushioning where you need it most. Bib shorts, with their braces-like straps, stay in place better than waist shorts and eliminate any chance of the dreaded builder's bum scenario when you're leaning forward on the bike. Not keen on the full Lycra look? No worries! You can always opt for padded shorts or liners worn discreetly underneath normal baggy shorts, leggings, or even a skirt.
We like to wear discreet padded shorts underneath normal outdoorsy gear - comfort without committing to the full Tour de France aesthetic.
Over the top, you could wear some cargo shorts. The pockets come very useful on an outdoors adventure and the belt straps come in handy here for avoiding a builders bottom, especially if you’re not a fan of wearing bib shorts underneath!
Togs cargos will be your summer favourite for years to come!
Tops to wear for bike rides
For those longer Yorkshire routes, a proper jersey top earns its keep. They're close-fitting to prevent that annoying fabric flapping in the wind, stretchy in all the right places, and wonderfully breathable when you're tackling those unexpected Yorkshire hills.
On cooler days (let's face it, it's Yorkshire – there are plenty), layer up with a base layer underneath. Our merino wool-lined zip necks are perfect for regulating temperature across seasons, which come in a range of sizes for both men and women.
Don't forget to pack a windproof top like our mens quilted gilet or softshell jacket. Yorkshire weather is notoriously changeable, and there's nothing worse than being caught without an extra layer when those clouds come from nowhere.
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Protect yourself from English weather!
Quality eyewear isn't just for looking the part – it shields your eyes from sun, wind, and the occasional fly! Our Tindall sunglasses will protect your eyes well from all the elements (and insects)!
While dedicated cycling shoes with stiff soles offer the most efficient pedalling, a good pair of trainers will serve you well for shorter family routes. Just ensure they've got decent grip – especially important when exploring Yorkshire's occasionally muddy trails.
A versatile neck warmer is perhaps the most underrated piece of cycling kit. Use it as a headband, neck warmer, wrist sweatband, or even as an emergency mask when passing fragrant farmland!
Don't overlook good quality socks – they support your feet in all the right places and prevent rubbing. Our merino trek socks keep feet warm in winter and cool in summer.
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“On your bike!”
We hope you’ve found some interesting routes in our blog so you and the family can have fun! No matter what the weather, just make sure you’re prepared. We’re sure that the stunning scenery will create an unforgettable experience!
Take a look at TOG 24 for more outdoorsy clothing so you can ride in style!
