The best traffic-free bike rides around Skipton

There are 15 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Skipton featured in this guide, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult.

Yes, all the no traffic touring cycling routes listed in this guide are circular, designed to bring you back to your starting point in Skipton. For example, you could try the Otley Town Centre – Bolton Priory Ruins loop from Skipton, which offers a challenging ride through varied landscapes.

The routes often pass through stunning natural landscapes. You might encounter picturesque waterside sections along the River Aire and Leeds and Liverpool Canal, or ancient woodlands like Skipton Castle Woods. Some routes offer views of dramatic limestone formations like Malham Cove or pass by serene bodies of water such as Embsay Reservoir and Winterburn Reservoir. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including bats, birds, and deer.

While this guide focuses on routes generally rated moderate to difficult, the Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpath offers excellent, flat, and largely traffic-free sections ideal for families and beginners. You can access it directly from Skipton and enjoy a gentle ride with plenty of picnic spots. For a moderate, yet manageable, circular route, consider the Canal Lock with Bench – Gargrave Bridge loop from Skipton.

The routes in this guide are selected for their low traffic nature, so they can be enjoyed year-round. However, for the most pleasant conditions, late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer milder weather, beautiful scenery, and generally fewer visitors than the peak summer months. Winter conditions can be challenging, especially on higher ground, so always check local forecasts.

Many routes in the Yorkshire Dales naturally pass through villages or near country pubs and cafes, offering convenient stops. While specific pub stops aren't detailed for every route, the cycling club in Skipton often includes café stops on their rides, indicating the availability of such amenities in the region. The scenic back road from Skipton to Bolton Abbey, for instance, passes attractions like Billy Bob's Parlour.

The terrain varies, offering a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. You'll encounter quiet country roads, canal towpaths, and some routes may include climbs and descents characteristic of the Yorkshire Dales. For example, the Gargrave Bridge – Malham Cove Climb loop from Skipton features significant elevation changes, while the Barden Road Climb – Barden Moor Estate Track loop from Skipton also includes notable ascents.

The no traffic touring cycling routes around Skipton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural landscapes, the tranquility of the quiet roads, and the diverse terrain that offers both challenging climbs and picturesque, serene sections.

Yes, the routes offer numerous scenic spots. You might find viewpoints overlooking reservoirs like View of Embsay Reservoir from Embsay Crag, or pass by natural features such as Posforth Gill Waterfall. The dramatic scenery of the Yorkshire Dales, including formations like Malham Cove, is often visible from various points along the routes.

Skipton, being a popular gateway to the Dales, offers various parking options within the town centre, which can serve as convenient starting points for these circular routes. Many car parks are available, though it's always advisable to check local parking regulations and fees, especially during peak seasons.

Skipton is well-connected by public transport. Skipton railway station provides train services, and there are also bus services connecting to surrounding areas. This makes it feasible to reach the town and start your touring cycling adventure without needing a car.