Coastlines & countryside loop from Scarborough

This road cycling loop is approximately 48 kilometers (30 miles) long. Most cyclists can expect to complete it in about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the scenery.

The route offers a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find well-paved roads for much of the journey, but there are also segments that might be unpaved or feature gravel, particularly along the Cinder Track. Expect an undulating ride with some challenging climbs, such as Reasty Hill, which has an 8.3% gradient over 1.2 kilometers. Away from the Cinder Track, you'll encounter quiet back roads and some forest tracks.

This loop offers a constantly changing panorama. You'll pass by the vibrant South Bay, Scarborough and enjoy excellent views from Marine Drive overlooking Scarborough North Bay Beach. Further along, you'll be treated to a stunning View of Robin Hood's Bay and panoramic vistas from View from Reasty Hill Top. The route also showcases iconic heather landscapes, hidden valleys, and deep forests within the North York Moors National Park.

This route is generally considered a moderate road ride. While it includes sections like the Cinder Track which are relatively easy, its undulating nature and challenging climbs, such as Reasty Hill, require a good level of fitness. Beginners with some cycling experience might find it manageable, but those new to road cycling may prefer a flatter route.

The best time to cycle this loop is typically from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the North York Moors are vibrant with heather in late summer. Winter cycling can be challenging due to colder temperatures, potential ice, and shorter daylight hours.

As the loop starts and ends in Scarborough, there are various public car parks available in the town. You can find detailed information on parking options and locations by visiting the local tourism website, such as visitnorthyorkshire.com, which often provides up-to-date parking information for the area.

No, you do not need any special permits or to pay an entrance fee to cycle this route within the North York Moors National Park. The park is freely accessible to the public. However, standard parking charges may apply if you use designated car parks in Scarborough or other towns along the route.

While dogs are generally welcome in the North York Moors National Park, this route is designed for road cycling. If you plan to bring a dog, it would need to be able to keep pace with a bicycle or be carried safely. Always keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock, and adhere to the Countryside Code.

Yes, the North York Moors area is known for being cycling-friendly. You'll find numerous opportunities for refreshments at cycling-friendly cafés, traditional pubs, and tea rooms in villages and towns along or near the route. Scarborough itself also offers a wide array of dining options.

Yes, this loop is a fantastic 'taster' of the larger Moor to Sea Cycle Network, a flagship long-distance route within the North York Moors National Park. Significant portions of this route also utilize the popular Cinder Track, a former railway line. You'll also find sections that overlap with the NCN 1 Humber to Tees and the Moors to Sea trails.

For this moderate road cycling loop, it's advisable to bring a well-maintained road bike, a helmet, appropriate cycling attire, water, snacks, a basic repair kit (spare tube, pump, tire levers), and navigation tools (like the komoot app). Given the changeable weather in Yorkshire, waterproof and windproof layers are also recommended.