4.8
(41)
829
riders
96
rides
Touring cycling routes around Hovingham traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills and varied terrain in North Yorkshire. The area features a mix of paved and unpaved sections, offering diverse cycling experiences. Routes often follow scenic countryside, including the tranquil surroundings of Hovingham Park and the River Rye. The region's topography includes both gentle gradients and steeper climbs, with some routes reaching elevations up to 1,500 feet.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(1)
25
riders
71.9km
04:38
810m
810m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
36.4km
02:19
430m
430m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
14
riders
45.4km
02:56
570m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
16
riders
17.4km
01:07
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
16.8km
01:04
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The A170 is a busy road so if cycling try to minimise the distance you have to ride along it
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The remains of this Augustinian priory include a gatehouse adorned with the De Roos family heraldry. You can also learn about the priory's role in World War II, including Winston Churchill's secret visit and its use in training and testing for D-Day.
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Note that the Abbey itself is English Heritage and has both cafe and toilets available accessible without paying admission/requiring membership. The only downside is that to get there from Rievaulx Terrace it is down a steep hill.
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Great route despite the heavy rain in previous days. Will plot a route staying more on the high moor tracks.
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Sutton Bank National Park Centre - all the facilities to start and finish your ride.
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Free parking with access to toilets and a cafe in the courtyard, cafe a little expensive. it's also possible to park up at the woods off the Terrington Rd which save having to use the fast road section from the obelisk
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Large car park under the White Horse, £2.50 all day as at July 2024. Free parking in a smaller off-road car park on Osgodby Bank at the southern end of Hood Hill Plantation. Very steep steps up to the top, but there is a metal handrail that alternates from the left to right side of the steps. Fabulous views from the top, although as others mention, you can only really see and appreciate the horse from the bottom of the bank.
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There are over 90 touring cycling routes around Hovingham, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews.
Hovingham's touring cycling routes feature varied terrain, including rolling hills, gentle gradients, and steeper climbs. You'll encounter a mix of paved and unpaved sections, providing diverse cycling experiences. Some routes reach elevations up to 1,500 feet, while others remain under 500 feet, catering to all fitness levels.
Yes, Hovingham offers 16 easy touring cycling routes. For a moderate option that's not too long, consider the Whistle Stop Cafe loop from Coneysthorpe, which is 10.8 miles (17.4 km) with an elevation gain of around 680 feet (208 meters).
Many routes pass by significant historical sites. You can explore the area around the historic Kirkham Priory Ruins, or cycle past the impressive Byland Abbey Ruins. The region also features landmarks like the Kilburn White Horse and the magnificent Castle Howard estate, which you can experience on routes like the Great Lake (Castle Howard) – Castle Howard loop from Coneysthorpe.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Hovingham are circular. For example, the Kirkham Priory Ruins – Kirkham Priory loop from Terrington is a moderate 22.6 miles (36.4 km) path that explores the area around the historic priory and returns to its starting point.
The Hovingham area is rich in scenic beauty. Routes often traverse picturesque countryside, offering fabulous views from elevated points, including glimpses of the Kilburn White Horse. You'll also find tranquil surroundings in Hovingham Park and along the River Rye, with the ornamental Pickering Bridge offering a gorgeous view of Hovingham Hall.
The region offers enjoyable cycling experiences throughout the warmer months. Spring and summer provide lush green landscapes and generally favorable weather. While some routes might be accessible in winter, conditions can be more challenging due to colder temperatures and potentially wet or icy surfaces, especially on unpaved sections.
Yes, some routes connect to local market towns. The Helmsley — Market Town – Byland Abbey Ruins loop from Nunnington is a challenging 44.7 miles (71.9 km) route that links a market town with historical abbey ruins, providing opportunities for refreshments and exploration.
Absolutely. Hovingham has 38 difficult touring cycling routes. For a significant challenge, consider the Byland Abbey Ruins – Kilburn White Horse loop from Nunnington, a 28.2 miles (45.4 km) trail with over 1,850 feet (565 meters) of elevation gain, leading through scenic countryside.
While specific parking details vary by route, many routes start from villages or attractions that offer public parking. For instance, Castle Howard, a prominent attraction in the vicinity, provides free parking for visitors, which can be a convenient starting point for nearby cycling loops.
The area around Hovingham features several natural water bodies. You might encounter the Lower Fish Pond or the Higher Fish Pond in Yearsley Woods. There are also views of the Oulston Reservoir, and some routes might pass by the Boathouse Café located near a lake.


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