Vale of Pickering & Rydale loop from Pickering

The Vale of Pickering & Rydale loop is approximately 57.4 km (35.7 miles) long. For a racebike, it generally takes around 2 hours and 34 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

You can typically find parking in Pickering town centre, which serves as the starting and ending point for this loop. Look for public car parks in the town.

This route is classified as a moderate road ride. While most surfaces are well-paved, it requires good fitness due to its length and some elevation gain. Beginners with some road cycling experience might find it manageable, but it's not ideal for absolute novices.

The loop offers picturesque scenery through the Vale of Pickering, with views across the valley towards the North York Moors National Park. You'll pass through charming villages, lush farmland, and potentially shaded areas like those near Dalby Forest. It's a great route to soak up nature.

Yes, along the route, you can experience several highlights. These include the scenic Wandale Lane and Riseborough Hall, the historic Barugh Bridge, and the impressive Pickering Castle.

The best time to cycle this loop is generally during spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is milder and the days are longer. This allows for comfortable riding conditions and the best enjoyment of the scenic views.

Yes, as the route passes through charming villages and starts/ends in Pickering, you'll find opportunities for cafes, pubs, and other eateries to refuel along the way or at the beginning/end of your ride.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other paths, including the National Byway (Malton Loop), Malton to Pickering, and a small portion of the Moors to Sea network. You'll also encounter local lanes like Brant Hill, Salton Lane, and Wells Walk.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Vale of Pickering & Rydale loop itself, as it primarily uses public roads and lanes.

This route is located within the beautiful Howardian Hills National Landscape. While there are no specific cycling permits or fees for this particular route, it's always good practice to respect the local environment, follow the Highway Code, and be mindful of other road users and wildlife. Enjoy the stunning protected landscape responsibly.

As this is a road cycling route, dogs are not typically 'on' the trail in the same way as a hiking path. If you are cycling, it's generally not suitable to bring a dog along for the ride unless they are safely secured in a bike trailer designed for pets.