4.7
(80)
5,460
riders
140
rides
Road cycling routes around Burnsall are situated within Wharfedale in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, characterized by the River Wharfe and surrounding green hills. The terrain features expansive open landscapes, traditional Yorkshire stone buildings, and limestone formations, with fells providing varied elevation. The area offers a mix of riverside sections and more demanding climbs, suitable for different fitness levels.
Last updated: April 29, 2026
4.6
(5)
329
riders
60.5km
02:59
870m
870m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(6)
284
riders
33.4km
01:40
350m
350m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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4.0
(2)
30
riders
19.5km
00:58
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
16
riders
71.1km
03:19
780m
780m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
13
riders
25.9km
01:20
460m
460m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Relentless climb but worth the effort when you get to the top to see the Highland Cattle.Followed by an amazing descent into Settle
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The original stone bridge was built in 1609. It was restored in 1884 following flood damage (Source: Yorkshire Dales National Park)
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What a fantastic tea room. Stopped for a break and lunch on the Dales Way. They had stopped serving food by the time we arrived but rustled us up a sandwich for our journey so very grateful! Worth a stop and lovely friendly owners.
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Nice climb, steep from the Settle side, steady from the east side
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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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Burnsall is a lovely dales village with great cafes and pub. Plenty of walks and cycle rides around here.
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There are over 140 road cycling routes around Burnsall, catering to various skill levels. This includes 21 easy routes, 75 moderate routes, and 47 difficult routes, offering a wide range of experiences from gentle riverside rides to challenging climbs through the fells.
Road cycling routes in Burnsall are primarily situated within Wharfedale, offering a mix of terrain. You'll experience constantly changing views along the River Wharfe, green hills, expansive open landscapes, and traditional Yorkshire stone buildings. The area is also known for its limestone formations and fells, providing both flat riverside sections and more demanding climbs.
Yes, Burnsall offers routes suitable for different fitness levels, including 21 easy routes perfect for families or beginners. These routes often feature mostly well-paved surfaces and less significant elevation gains, allowing for a more relaxed cycling experience through the scenic Wharfe Valley.
Yes, the area around Burnsall features several excellent circular road cycling routes. An example is the Burnsall Village – Wharfe View Tea Room loop from Appletreewick, which is a moderate 12.1-mile (19.5 km) trail leading through the Wharfe Valley.
Road cycling routes near Burnsall offer numerous scenic viewpoints and landmarks. You might pass by the iconic five-arched Victorian bridge in Burnsall, the historic St. Wilfrid's Church, or the impressive Barden Tower ruins. Further afield, routes can lead you past the 12th-century Bolton Abbey. For specific viewpoints, consider routes that offer glimpses of Sharp Haw Summit or Cracoe Fell War Memorial.
While many road cycling routes focus on the valley and fells, some areas near Burnsall feature waterfalls. For instance, Linton Falls is a notable natural monument in the vicinity. Routes exploring the wider area might also bring you close to Posforth Gill Waterfall or the Valley of Desolation, which includes water features.
Burnsall, being a popular destination, offers parking options within the village. There are usually designated car parks available for visitors. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and fees upon arrival.
The Yorkshire Dales, including Burnsall, are generally best for road cycling from spring through autumn. During these seasons, you can expect more favorable weather conditions, with less chance of ice or snow on the roads, and the landscape is vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide beautiful seasonal colors.
Yes, Burnsall and the surrounding villages are well-equipped with welcoming establishments for cyclists. Burnsall itself has cafes like the Riverbank Burnsall cafe and pubs. Many routes, such as the River Bank Café – Wharfe View Tea Room loop from Appletreewick, are designed to pass by such convenient refreshment stops.
The road cycling experience around Burnsall is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning natural beauty of the Wharfe Valley, the variety of routes catering to different abilities, and the charm of the traditional Yorkshire villages and their amenities.
Yes, e-bike hire is available in the wider Yorkshire Dales area, which allows more visitors to explore the region's renowned road cycling routes. E-bikes can provide assistance for up to a 40-mile range, making the more challenging climbs and longer distances more accessible.
A popular longer route that includes the Burnsall area is the Back Road to Bolton Abbey – Bolton Priory Ruins loop from Hebden. This 37.6-mile (60.5 km) trail offers extensive views of the Wharfe Valley and passes historic sites, providing a significant and rewarding ride.
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant elevation gains. An example is the High Hill Lane Climb – High Hill Lane Climb loop from Hebden, a 71 km route with substantial climbing, designed to test very good fitness levels.


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