The best gravel rides around LCPs of Fylingdales and Hawsker-cum-Stainsacre

There are over 15 gravel bike trails to explore in the LCPs of Fylingdales and Hawsker-cum-Stainsacre, offering a diverse range of experiences within the North York Moors National Park.

You'll encounter a varied landscape, from coastal paths and ancient tracks to open moorland. The region features heather-covered sandstone moorlands, wooded valleys, and some rocky, gritstone areas, ensuring engaging rides with changing scenery. The famous Cinder Track offers a traffic-free path with coastal views, though some sections can be rutted.

While many routes offer challenging terrain, the Cinder Track, a disused railway line between Whitby and Robin Hood's Bay, is generally more accessible and traffic-free, making it suitable for families. Some parts are even mostly paved, offering an easier ride.

The area is rich with points of interest. You can ride past the historic Larpool Viaduct, explore coastal sections with views towards Robin Hood's Bay, or venture into moorland landscapes. Highlights include the Simon Howe Bronze Age Cairn and the Roger Trod Viewpoint, offering glimpses into the region's history and natural beauty.

Yes, the North York Moors is home to several beautiful waterfalls. While not directly on a gravel bike route, you can find the impressive Mallyan Spout Waterfall, the tallest in the National Park, or the scenic Hayburn Wyke Waterfall and Beach nearby, which can be explored on foot as part of a multi-activity day.

The North York Moors offer unique experiences year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes, with heather blooming in late summer. However, the diverse terrain means you can find enjoyable rides in most seasons, though some moorland paths might be more challenging in wet or winter conditions.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the moderate Larpool Viaduct – View from Larpool Viaduct loop from Whitby offers a scenic circular ride. Another option is the more challenging View from Common Cliff – Robin Hood's Bay Village loop from Whitby, which explores coastal sections.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from coastal paths to open moorland, and the unique blend of historical interest and scenic beauty, particularly along the Cinder Track and routes offering sea views.

Many routes start from towns like Whitby, which offers parking facilities. The Cinder Track is easily accessible from various points between Whitby and Robin Hood's Bay. For specific trailheads, it's advisable to check individual route details on komoot, as parking availability can vary.

Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments. Towns like Whitby and villages such as Robin Hood's Bay offer various cafes and pubs. Along the Cinder Track, old railway stations like Hawsker can provide memorable mid-ride stops. For specific options, check the route details or local guides for amenities along your chosen path.

The trails range from moderate to difficult. You'll find routes like the Larpool Viaduct – View from Larpool Viaduct loop from Whitby which is moderate, while others such as the View of the Hole of Horcum – Levisham Railway Station loop from Goathland are considered difficult, featuring more challenging moorland landscapes and elevations.

Absolutely. The LCPs of Fylingdales and Hawsker-cum-Stainsacre boast magnificent stretches of coastline. Routes along the Cinder Track and sections of the Cleveland Way, particularly from Maw Wyke to Robin Hood's Bay, offer breathtaking views out to sea on one side and glorious countryside on the other, with rocky crags and beaches below.