The best cycling routes around Ripon

There are 8 touring cycling routes documented on komoot around Ripon. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy spins to challenging climbs, catering to different skill levels.

Ripon's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain. You'll find gentle, rolling countryside, quiet country roads, and gravel trails. More challenging routes venture into the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering expansive moors, serene river valleys, and distinctive gritstone and limestone formations.

Yes, Ripon offers easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Bike loop from Saint-André-Avellin is an easy 10 km (6.2 miles) route with minimal elevation gain, taking about 45 minutes. Another easy option is the Bike loop from Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, which is 15.8 km (9.8 miles) and takes around 1 hour 23 minutes.

Many routes offer scenic views and access to significant landmarks. You can cycle towards the UNESCO World Heritage site of Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, exploring historic ruins and water gardens. Routes also traverse the Nidderdale AONB, where you'll encounter reservoirs like Scar House and Gouthwaite, and unique geological formations such as Brimham Rocks. Within Ripon itself, you can pass by Ripon Cathedral.

For longer distances, consider routes that extend into the wider region. The Lac des Fées loop from Saint-André-Avellin is a challenging 89.1 km (55.3 miles) route with significant elevation, typically taking over 7 hours. The region also connects to parts of the Way of the Roses coast-to-coast cycle route, offering extensive touring possibilities.

The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Ripon, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the diverse landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales and Nidderdale AONB can be enjoyed in autumn for their vibrant colours, though weather can be more unpredictable.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Ripon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Lac des Fées loop from Saint-André-Avellin and the Monte St. Charles loop from Saint-André-Avellin, which are both circular routes.

The touring cycling routes in Ripon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 2.75 stars from over 3 reviews. Cyclists often appreciate the varied terrain, from rolling countryside to challenging climbs, and the scenic beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and Nidderdale AONB.

While some routes are challenging, the region also offers easier paths suitable for families. The flatter, open countryside surrounding Ripon has various loops, and efforts are underway to extend the Nidderdale Greenway, creating more traffic-free cycling opportunities on former railway trackbeds, which are ideal for families.

Ripon and the surrounding villages offer various cafes and pubs where you can stop for refreshments. Routes often pass through or near small towns and hamlets, providing opportunities to refuel and rest. It's always a good idea to check opening times, especially in more remote areas.

The most challenging touring cycling route listed is the Lac des Fées loop from Saint-André-Avellin. This difficult 89.1 km (55.3 miles) route features significant elevation gain, with over 1000 meters (3280 feet) of ascent, making it suitable for experienced touring cyclists.