The best cycling routes around Great Ayton
4.5
(18)
256
riders
23
rides
Touring cycling routes around Great Ayton offer a diverse landscape at the edge of the North York Moors National Park. The terrain features a mix of quiet country lanes, woodlands, and open moorland, with sections ranging from flat to occasional inclines. Prominent natural features include the distinctive Roseberry Topping hill and the expansive vistas of the national park. River valleys and smaller hills also characterize the region, providing varied cycling experiences.
Best touring cycling routes around Great Ayton
- The most…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.0
(2)
5
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
41
riders
93.5km
06:24
1,400m
1,400m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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15
riders
25.5km
02:25
490m
490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
23
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
22
riders
89.3km
05:46
1,140m
1,140m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The A170 is a busy road so if cycling try to minimise the distance you have to ride along it
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Whitby Harbour is a historic and bustling port at the mouth of the River Esk in North Yorkshire, offering a various attractions, shops, and dining places.
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Head on out to either of the 2 main piers and experience an epic sunrise or sunset!
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Had a delicious meal where fresh herbs were used, such as in the Hake fillet
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I tend to hike/trail run early (sometimes starting around 5am), but I passed through Danby mid-morning on a Saturday and the smell coming from the bakery was heavenly. All the excuse you need for adding Danby to your route!
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Great stop at Coopers coffee house in Whitby for a drink and snack.
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Clay Bank Car Park sits just below the top B1257 road. It is a great place to start walks on the moors to the east or the Cleveland Hills to the west. There is also fantastic views from this place.
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Free admission to the museum in the summer months
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Great Ayton?
There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Great Ayton, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Great Ayton offers several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Stokesley Packhorse Bridge – Great Ayton Village Centre loop from Great Ayton is an easy 19.2 km ride with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed outing. These routes typically follow quiet country lanes and woodland tracks.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Great Ayton?
The terrain around Great Ayton is quite varied. You'll find a mix of quiet country lanes, woodland tracks, and open moorland. While there are flat sections, occasional inclines are common, especially as you venture towards the North York Moors. The area is suitable for road bikes, gravel bikes, and e-bikes.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Whitby Harbour – Whitby Whale Bones loop from Great Ayton offer significant elevation changes over 93.5 km, leading to coastal views. Another demanding option is the Fletcher's Farm Coffee Shop – Climb to Highcliff loop from Great Ayton, which includes notable climbs.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes starting from Great Ayton?
Yes, Great Ayton is an excellent starting point for numerous circular touring cycling routes. Many local routes are designed to return to the village, allowing for convenient breaks and exploration of local cafes. Examples include rides towards Hutton Rudby, Swainby, or West Rounton.
What scenic landmarks or attractions can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Cycling routes frequently offer stunning views of Roseberry Topping, often called the 'Yorkshire Matterhorn,' and you can even cycle near its base. Other notable landmarks include Roseberry Topping Summit and Carlton Bank Summit Trig Point. The area also provides access to the expansive North York Moors National Park and the Cleveland Way, showcasing diverse landscapes.
Are there good places to stop for refreshments during a ride?
Yes, Great Ayton and its surrounding areas are well-equipped with welcoming cafes and independent eateries, perfect for refuelling. Many circular routes, such as the Fletcher's Farm Coffee Shop – Climb to Highcliff loop from Great Ayton, are designed with cafe stops in mind, allowing you to experience local hospitality.
Where can I park my car when cycling in Great Ayton?
Great Ayton offers various parking options within the village, making it convenient to start your cycling adventure. Specific parking details can often be found on local council websites or by checking local signage upon arrival. For more information on visiting Great Ayton, you might find resources at visitgreatayton.com.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Great Ayton?
The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Great Ayton, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the North York Moors can be beautiful in autumn with vibrant colours, and even in winter for those prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions.
Where can I hire a bike, including e-bikes, in Great Ayton?
Cycle hire services, including e-bikes, are available locally in Great Ayton. BikeBase North York Moors is conveniently located near major cycling landmarks and can provide equipment for your touring adventure. For more details on cycling in the area, you can visit visitgreatayton.com/what-to-do-in-great-ayton/cycle.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Great Ayton?
The touring cycling routes in Great Ayton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscape, from quiet country lanes to expansive moorland, and the stunning views of landmarks like Roseberry Topping. The variety of routes catering to different ability levels is also frequently highlighted.
Are there routes that explore the Cleveland Way?
While primarily a walking trail, the Cleveland Way National Trail intersects with cycling routes in the region. Some sections of the 110-mile trail are suitable for cycling, offering a challenging off-road experience over undulating hills and dense moorland, showcasing the varied landscapes of the area.
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