The best cycling routes around Stonegrave

There are nearly 100 touring cycling routes around Stonegrave, offering a wide variety of experiences. These include 19 easy routes, 35 moderate routes, and 44 difficult routes, catering to different skill levels and preferences.

The terrain around Stonegrave is quite varied. Within the Howardian Hills AONB, you'll find rolling hills, woodlands, and fertile valleys with gentle ascents and descents, often on quiet country lanes. Heading towards the North York Moors National Park, expect more dramatic landscapes with heather moorland, deep valleys, and opportunities for longer, more strenuous rides with significant climbs.

Yes, many routes in the area are circular. For example, the challenging Helmsley Town Centre – Nunnington Hall loop from Oswaldkirk is a popular circular option, covering 50.4 km through the scenic Howardian Hills.

The region is rich in history. You can cycle past the ancient Helmsley Castle, the magnificent Castle Howard estate, and the impressive ruins of Rievaulx Abbey and Byland Abbey. The Helmsley — Market Town – Byland Abbey Ruins loop from Nunnington is a great way to combine cycling with historical exploration.

Absolutely. The Howardian Hills AONB offers panoramic views of rolling countryside and woodlands. In the North York Moors, you'll encounter vast heather moorlands and dramatic vistas. Keep an eye out for natural features like Lower Fish Pond or the View of Oulston Reservoir, which can be found along various routes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 38 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from the quiet country lanes of the Howardian Hills to the challenging climbs of the North York Moors, and the abundance of historical sites like Castle Howard and the abbeys.

Yes, there are 35 moderate routes available. A good option for a less strenuous ride is the Helmsley — Market Town – Helmsley Town Centre loop from Oswaldkirk, which covers 29.7 km and offers a pleasant journey through the local area.

Yes, Castle Howard is a prominent landmark in the area. The challenging Castle Howard – Castle Howard Obelisk loop from Oswaldkirk is a 60.6 km route that provides excellent views of the historic estate and its obelisk.

While cycling is possible year-round, spring and summer offer the most pleasant conditions with milder weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for enjoying the vibrant landscapes of the Howardian Hills and the North York Moors. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage.

Yes, you can incorporate the Kilburn White Horse into your ride. The challenging Byland Abbey Ruins – Kilburn White Horse loop from Nunnington is a 45.4 km route that takes you past this distinctive landmark.

The Howardian Hills AONB is known for its diverse wildlife. On quiet country lanes, you might spot hares, lapwings, and barn owls, especially during dawn or dusk. The woodlands also host various bird species and small mammals.