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Gravel rides
United Kingdom
England
Yorkshire And The Humber
Barnsley

Cawthorne

The best gravel rides around Cawthorne

4.2

(29)

277

riders

23

rides

Gravel biking around Cawthorne offers a network of routes through diverse landscapes, featuring unpaved segments and significant elevation gains. The area is characterized by extensive bridleways, woodlands like Deffer Wood and Margery Wood, and the parkland surrounding Cannon Hall. These paths provide varied terrain suitable for gravel bikes, connecting natural features and historical sites. The region's mix of dales, forests, and open parkland creates a range of environments for cycling.

Best gravel bike trails around Cawthorne

  • The most popular gravel…

Last updated: July 3, 2026

4.2

(5)

64

riders

#1.

Elsecar Heritage Centre – Thurgoland Tunnel loop from Barnsley Interchange

50.4km

03:00

450m

450m

Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

Hard
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Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard

Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Tips from the Community

Robert
June 27, 2026, Wortley Hall Grounds Trail

Amazing gravel route track through Wortley Hall's grounds

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The substantial ruins of Monk Bretton Priory, near Barnsley, are now edged by housing estates and industrial developments. When the monastery was built, however, the site in the wooded valley of the River Dearne was peaceful and remote. Founded in about 1154 by a local landowner, Adam Fitzswaine, it was a daughter house of the rich Cluniac priory at Pontefract. But within 50 years bitter quarrels – at times even involving gang warfare – had broken out between the two houses, as Pontefract sought to retain direct control of Monk Bretton. The dispute was only resolved in 1281, when Monk Bretton seceded from the Cluniac Order and became a Benedictine house.

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Steve Tyke
August 1, 2025, Julie's Cafe

Great value grub. Breakfast butties are amazing.

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eug w
July 5, 2025, Magic Wood Cafe

Lovely little hideaway on TPT. Tea n insta coffee, snacks and fab bacon sarnie in proper soft breadcake (if you are from Sheff) or teacake if you are from Barnsley!

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love to shout Echo!!! through here .. regardless of the miserable faces of others

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nice little circular and the res

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steady inclined for a few miles

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Good cafe, interesting curiosity shops and interesting historic buildings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many gravel bike trails are available around Cawthorne?

Cawthorne offers nearly 40 gravel biking routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring there's a trail for every adventurer.

What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Cawthorne?

The terrain around Cawthorne is diverse, featuring extensive bridleways, dense woodlands like Deffer Wood and Margery Wood, and expansive parklands such as those surrounding Cannon Hall. You'll encounter a mix of unpaved paths, dales, and forest trails, perfect for gravel bikes.

Are there any easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners in Cawthorne?

Yes, Cawthorne has 4 easy gravel biking routes. While many trails are moderate to difficult, beginners can find suitable paths to enjoy the scenic landscapes.

What are some scenic natural features or landmarks I can see along the gravel trails?

Many routes pass by picturesque bodies of water like Langsett Reservoir, Newmillerdam Lake, and Cold Hiendley Reservoir. You might also encounter viewpoints such as Pea Royd Lane Hill Climb Summit View or the View from Blacker Hill Stone Circle, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding dales and woodlands.

Are there any circular gravel bike routes in the Cawthorne area?

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Cawthorne are circular. For example, the Elsecar Heritage Centre – Thurgoland Tunnel loop from Barnsley Interchange is a popular circular option that connects heritage sites and offers varied terrain.

What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Cawthorne?

The gravel biking routes in Cawthorne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. Over 300 gravel bikers have explored the area, often praising the diverse landscapes and well-maintained bridleways.

Are there any routes that pass by reservoirs?

Absolutely. The Dunford Bridge – Woodhead Reservoir loop from Penistone is a fantastic option that takes you around Woodhead Reservoir, providing beautiful water views and mixed surfaces. Another route, the Dunford Bridge – Winscar Reservoir loop from Barnsley Interchange, also offers scenic reservoir views.

Can I find routes that go through woodlands?

Yes, woodlands are a prominent feature of the Cawthorne area. The Newmillerdam Woods Trail – Forest Trail loop from Penistone is a prime example, leading you through extensive woodland paths. Deffer Wood and Margery Wood are also part of established routes suitable for gravel biking.

What is the typical elevation gain on gravel trails in Cawthorne?

Gravel trails in Cawthorne can feature significant elevation gains, especially on the more difficult routes. For instance, the Dunford Bridge – Woodhead Reservoir loop has an elevation gain of over 650 meters, offering a good challenge for experienced riders.

Are there any moderate difficulty gravel routes available?

Yes, there are 16 moderate difficulty routes in Cawthorne. A good example is the Woodland Path – Dove Valley Trail loop from Barnsley Interchange, which offers a balanced challenge through varied landscapes.

What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Cawthorne?

Cawthorne's diverse landscapes are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Be mindful of potential mud on unpaved sections during wetter periods.

Are there cafes or pubs near the gravel trails for a break?

Yes, many cycling routes in the Cawthorne area include village loops and pass by cafes and pubs, offering convenient stops for refreshments and breaks during your ride. Cawthorne village itself has local amenities.

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