New gravel cycle routes open on North York Moors

Jack Hadaway-Weller
BBC News, Yorkshire@jhweller
Mick Kirkman A cyclist in a yellow jacket and orange helmet cycling on a track amongst some moorland. He is cycling uphill on an orange framed bike.Mick Kirkman
The three different routes in the North York Moors National Park vary in difficulty from easy to moderate

Three "exciting" new gravel cycling routes have been opened in the North York Moors National Park.

The routes, which all start at Sutton Bank, reach into less frequented areas of the park's western edge, including Rievaulx Abbey, the Cleveland Hills and the Vale of Mowbray.

The circular routes, the longest of which runs for 30 miles (48 km), follow existing bridleways and gravel tracks as well as an ancient drover's road, according to a spokesperson for the park.

Cycling writer Guy Kesteven, who helped design the routes, said: "They are easily accessible off-road routes for gravel bikes, hybrid bikes or mountain bikes."

Mick Kirkman Three cyclists looking at Rievaulx Abbey from their bikes. They are stationary and standing behind a wooden gate. Two of the cyclists are men, one is wearing a green top and a black helmet, the other is wearing a mustard hoodie and an orange helmet. The other cyclist is a woman and is wearing a blue hoodie and a grey helmet with a blonde ponytail sticking out of it.Mick Kirkman
One of the routes is inspired by Rievaulx Abbey

The North York Moors National Park covers an area of more than 500 sq miles (1,300 sq km) and attracts an estimated 8.4 million visitors a year.

Mr Kesteven said: "The North York Moors is such an incredibly diverse landscape, and being on a bike just means you can travel through it that bit quicker than you can on foot and also access areas you just wouldn't find in a car.

"I've been lucky enough to ride the North York Moors my entire life. These three routes provide a true taste of the rich off-road cycling available in a really accessible way and with options for all appetites.

"They're all carefully curated to showcase the incredible views, fascinating history, local hospitality and amazing diversity of landscape, from wild moorland to stunning secret valleys, that make the North York Moors such a special place to explore on a bike."

Mick Kirkman Three cyclists riding on a gravel route with some trees in the background. Two of the cyclists are men, one is wearing a green top and a black helmet, the other is wearing a mustard hoodie and an orange helmet. The other cyclist is a woman and is wearing a blue hoodie and a grey helmet.Mick Kirkman
The shortest and easiest route is 15 miles (25 km) long

With the introduction of the new gravel routes, which vary in distance and difficulty, the North York Moors National Park is now home to seven different circular routes.

In September, Dalby Forest, which lies within the park, will host the British Gravel Championships cycling competition.

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