3.9
(14)
52
riders
8
rides
Mountain biking around Long Drax offers routes through a predominantly flat landscape, characterized by open countryside and riverside paths. The region's low elevation gain means trails are generally accessible and suitable for various skill levels. Many routes follow waterways like the Selby Canal, providing a consistent and gentle gradient. The area is well-suited for those seeking longer, less strenuous rides through rural settings.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
2
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
32.5km
01:47
40m
40m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.0
(1)
1
riders
51.6km
02:40
100m
100m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
24.8km
01:19
40m
40m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
34.7km
01:48
60m
60m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lots of signage on this route. Some directional and some informative.
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Spectacular abbey for such a small town. Interesting info board describing the 19th Century cholera epidemic and associated graveyard, much like the one just outside the walls opposite York Station.
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Nice little park just south of Selby Abbey.
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Grade I listed building. The surviving fifteenth-century structures formed part of a fortified medieval palace belonging to the Archbishops of York, which was dismantled in the aftermath of the English Civil War. The only remaining parts of the castle are the gatehouse and the banqueting hall. Stones from the destroyed castle were used in the construction of surrounding houses. The foundations of some other structures do remain as well as the castle's cellar, which was excavated in the 19th century. The gatehouse served as a courthouse until the 1930s, before being used as an officers' mess and a building for the Home Guard during World War II. The first fortifications on this site are believed to be those built by King Athelstan in the 10th Century.
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Grade II listed swing bridge opened in 1872. The deck was submerged when the River Ouse flooded in 2015.
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The oldest part of the church is the west wall, dating from the mid- or late-12th century. The chancel and south aisle were added in the 13th century. The church was first recorded in 1294, but is believed to have previously been a chapel of Cawood Castle. In the churchyard is a stone with a cup-like hollow, believed to have been used for depositing donations for lepers.
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Often sited in country parks, estates, hilltops or village greens, brazier beacons become a lasting memorial and are used to mark many occasions or events. This one is located with a bench in the shape of a viking longship.
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There are 8 mountain bike trails documented on komoot around Long Drax. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 6 easy and 2 moderate options.
Yes, Long Drax is ideal for beginners, with 6 out of 8 trails rated as easy. Routes like the Solar System Cycle Route – Solar System Cycleway loop from Skipwith offer gentle gradients and a predominantly flat landscape, perfect for those new to mountain biking.
The terrain around Long Drax is characterized by a predominantly flat landscape, open countryside, and riverside paths. You'll find low elevation gain, making for generally accessible trails along waterways like the Selby Canal.
Many of the easy routes are suitable for families. The flat and well-maintained paths along the canals and countryside provide a safe and enjoyable experience. Consider the Selby Canal – Cawood Bridge loop from Selby for a pleasant family outing.
Yes, most of the mountain bike trails around Long Drax are designed as loops. Examples include the Cawood Bridge – Cawood Castle Gatehouse loop from Selby and the Cawood Bridge – Solar System Cycleway loop from Selby, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
For scenic rides, routes that follow the Selby Canal or feature historical landmarks are highly recommended. The Cawood Bridge – Cawood Castle Gatehouse loop from Selby offers views of historical sites and the riverside, while the Cawood Bridge – Selby Canal loop from Selby provides extensive open countryside and canal views.
Trail durations vary depending on the route and your pace. Easy trails like the Solar System Cycle Route – Solar System Cycleway loop from Skipwith can take around 1 hour 28 minutes, while longer moderate routes such as the Cawood Bridge – Selby Canal loop from Selby might take approximately 2 hours 39 minutes.
Many routes offer views of the rural landscape and waterways. You can also find interesting points of interest nearby, such as the historic Howden Minster Ruins, the tranquil Saltmarshe Delph Nature Reserve, or the unique RAF Riccall Bomber Memorial at Skipwith Common.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 14 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the accessible, flat routes along canals and through open countryside, making it suitable for relaxed and longer rides.
While the region is predominantly flat, there are 2 routes rated as moderate. The Cawood Bridge – Selby Canal loop from Selby is a longer, moderate option at 32.1 miles, offering a more extended challenge compared to the easier trails. There are no trails rated as difficult in this area.
Given the flat terrain and open countryside, mountain biking in Long Drax is enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the riverside and canal paths. Autumn provides scenic views, and even winter can be suitable, though some paths might be muddy after heavy rain.
As many routes follow canal paths and open countryside, some sections can become muddy, especially after prolonged rain. While the flat nature of the trails means mud is generally manageable, it's advisable to check local weather conditions and trail reports before heading out, particularly during wetter seasons.


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