The best cycling routes around Malham

There are over 20 touring cycling routes available around Malham, offering a variety of experiences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 200 times, with an average rating of 4.25 stars.

Malham's touring cycling routes feature the distinctive limestone landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. You'll encounter a mix of quiet country roads, gravel tracks, and traditional drystone walls. The terrain includes varied elevations, from valley floors to higher moorland sections, often requiring good to very good fitness for some unpaved or difficult segments.

Yes, the Malham area is rich in dramatic natural features. You can cycle past or near iconic sites such as the towering limestone amphitheater of Malham Cove, the awe-inspiring Gordale Scar Waterfall, and the tranquil Catrigg Force Waterfall. Many routes also offer views of the unique Limestone Pavement at Malham Cove and the glacial Malham Tarn.

Absolutely. The region is home to several beautiful waterfalls. You can cycle near the picturesque Janet's Foss, a gladed woodland waterfall, or experience the dramatic Gordale Scar Waterfall. The route Catrigg Force Waterfall – View of Pen-y-Ghent loop from Malham Tarn also passes by Catrigg Force Waterfall.

Yes, Malham offers several circular touring cycling routes. For example, the Janet's Foss – Grassington village loop from Malham is a difficult 31.4 km circular trail that takes you through scenic landscapes and past the charming Grassington village.

While many routes in Malham can be challenging, the Malham Tarn Cycle Trails offer family-friendly circular routes. These trails explore Malham Moor on gravel and grassy tracks, as well as quiet country roads, providing views of the glacial lake and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Malham area has several difficult routes. The Kettlewell Village – Mastiles Lane loop from Malham is a difficult 37.7 km trail with significant elevation gain, leading through Kettlewell Village and along Mastiles Lane.

The charming village of Malham provides excellent amenities for cyclists. You'll find traditional stone buildings, cozy pubs, tearooms, and a National Park Visitor Centre, which can serve as a convenient starting point for your cycling adventures.

Absolutely. Many routes extend into the broader Yorkshire Dales National Park. The Yorkshire Dales National Park – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Malham is a moderate 42.5 km path that traverses sections of the National Park and includes parts of the historic Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most favorable weather for touring cycling in Malham, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the Dales can be enjoyed year-round, with autumn offering beautiful colors and winter providing a stark, dramatic landscape for those prepared for colder conditions.

Yes, Malham is a key point on the popular 170-mile coast-to-coast "Way of the Roses" cycle route, making it an ideal stop for long-distance touring cyclists.

The landscape around Malham is unique due to its dramatic limestone formations, including towering cliffs and scars, sculpted over millions of years. The area is also characterized by traditional drystone walls, historic field barns, managed moorland, and valley grasslands. Additionally, Malham is recognized as a dark sky reserve, offering exceptional stargazing opportunities.