Best attractions and places to see around Ellenthorpe, a small civil parish in North Yorkshire, England, offers a tranquil setting. The area is characterized by its natural features, including the River Ure, and proximity to historical landmarks. Visitors can explore a mix of man-made structures and natural landscapes.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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The Devil's Arrows are three aligned standing stones. The standing stone alignment consists of some of the tallest standing stones in the United Kingdom. Erected during the Stone Age and distinctively grooved by millennia of rainfall, the tallest southernmost stone is 22.5 feet (6.85 m) in height, making this the second tallest menhir in the United Kingdom.
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I believe that the bridge is closed for repair until 31 October 2023 so look to take a detour. Komoot has automatically routed me across the golf course to the North which you can get through with your bike (unofficially).
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Please note that at the time of writing this bridge is closed to all traffic including cyclists.
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The town of Boroughbridge has a bustling high street with plenty of cafes and a bakery for refuelling and recharging. Boroughbridge is halfway between London and Edinburgh so was historically an important stopover for stage coaches. In 1754 the journey was 10 days in summer and 12 in the winter so an arduous journey. No doubt the hospitality of Boroughbridge (then Burrow Bridge) was very welcome indeed.
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The Devil's Arrows are three standing stones just outside Boroughbridge and next to the A1. The stones are millstone grit, thought to have been sourced at Plumpton Rocks near Knaresborough, about 9 miles away. Legend has it that the Devil hurled the stones at nearby Aldborough but they fell short and they landed here. The tallest is 22.5ft, which is taller than stonehenge and the tallest standing stone in the UK after the monolith at Rudstone. It is believed there was once five stones but the fifth was removed in the hope that treasure was buried at its base.
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Despite its proximity to the A1, Roecliffe is a charming village that centres around the village green. This is also used as the school sports ground so you may see children out enjoying games as you pedal through. The village sits on the river Ure and another nice place to stop for a while is Roecliffe Pind & Meadows, once a clay pit, now a nature reserve. There is a well-reviewed pub in the village, The Crown Inn which offers drink, food and accommodation.
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Just outside Boroughbridge, you can visit The Devil's Arrows, three impressive standing stones with a rich legend. These millstone grit monoliths are among the tallest in the UK. Additionally, while public access details are limited, Ellenthorpe Hall is a significant Grade II listed building in the area, offering a glimpse into local heritage.
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. The Devil's Arrows are an intriguing historical site that can spark imagination. The charming Roecliffe Village, with its village green and nearby nature reserve, offers a pleasant outing. The River Ure is also a great place for wildlife spotting and gentle walks, appealing to all ages.
The River Ure is a prime location for nature lovers. Flowing through the Dales, its banks are home to diverse wildlife such as badgers, roe deer, brown trout, and oystercatchers, alongside various plant species like cranesbill and buttercup. You can also explore Roecliffe Pind & Meadows, a former clay pit now a nature reserve within Roecliffe Village.
The area around Ellenthorpe is excellent for outdoor activities, particularly hiking and cycling. You can find numerous routes, including easy walks like 'The River Ure & Aldborough loop' or more challenging cycling tours. For detailed routes and guides, explore the dedicated komoot guides for Hiking around Ellenthorpe and Cycling around Ellenthorpe.
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For instance, 'The River Ure & Aldborough loop from Boroughbridge' is an easy 5.9 km hike. Another option is the 'Hiking loop from Boroughbridge' which is about 4.2 km. You can find more easy routes in the Easy hikes around Ellenthorpe guide.
Boroughbridge High Street is known for its bustling atmosphere and offers plenty of cafes and a bakery, making it an ideal spot to refuel. In Roecliffe Village, you'll find The Crown Inn, a well-regarded pub offering food, drink, and accommodation.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The impressive scale and legend of The Devil's Arrows are a highlight, as is the charming, tranquil setting of Roecliffe Village. The scenic walks and wildlife spotting opportunities along the River Ure are also highly valued by the komoot community.
Yes, Aldwark Bridge is a notable structure in the area. It's known for allowing bikes to cross for free, and there's a picnic area and wildlife site nearby. Please note that at the time of writing, the bridge is closed to all traffic, including cyclists.
Absolutely. Roecliffe Village is a charming spot centered around a village green, despite its proximity to the A1. It sits on the River Ure and features a well-regarded pub, The Crown Inn, and the Roecliffe Pind & Meadows nature reserve.
Boroughbridge High Street is a bustling settlement that historically served as an important stopover between London and Edinburgh. Today, it continues to be a lively hub with cafes and a bakery, reflecting its enduring role as a welcoming place for travelers.
While not strictly 'hidden,' Roecliffe Pind & Meadows within Roecliffe Village offers a peaceful nature reserve experience that might be less frequented than other attractions. It's a former clay pit transformed into a pleasant natural area.
The area's natural beauty, especially along the River Ure, is enjoyable throughout the warmer months when wildlife is most active and plants are in bloom. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring historical sites like The Devil's Arrows and enjoying village life in Roecliffe Village. Autumn also brings beautiful foliage to the riverside landscapes.


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