The best road cycling routes around Croft-On-Tees

There are over 340 road cycling routes available around Croft-On-Tees. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 120 easy, 185 moderate, and 35 difficult options.

The region is characterized by a gentle rural landscape, featuring rolling fields and pockets of woodland. You'll find mostly well-paved surfaces, with routes often meandering alongside waterways like the River Tees, Clow Beck, and Spa Beck.

Yes, Croft-On-Tees offers many easy routes suitable for beginners. A great option is the Roadbike loop from North Cowton, an easy 24.4 km path with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a gentle ride through the countryside.

While the area is generally gentle, there are routes that offer more challenge. For instance, the Eppleby Village Green – Winston Bridge loop from Barton is a moderate 50.1 km ride with over 340m of elevation gain, providing a good workout for experienced cyclists.

You can encounter several historical landmarks. The Grade I-listed Croft Bridge, a 17th-century stone structure, is a notable feature on many routes. You might also pass by historic buildings like Croft Hall or St. Peter's Church, which has connections to Lewis Carroll. For more historical sites, consider exploring highlights like the Ruins of Easby Abbey or Richmond Market Town and Castle, which are accessible from some routes.

Absolutely. The River Tees is a prominent natural feature, offering picturesque riverside views. The gentle rural landscape with its rolling fields and woodlands provides a peaceful and scenic backdrop throughout your ride. Many routes offer charming vistas of the countryside.

Yes, many of the easier routes are suitable for families. The gentle terrain and mostly well-paved surfaces make for a pleasant experience. Routes like the Roadbike loop from East Cowton, at 16.4 km with minimal elevation, are ideal for families looking for a relaxed ride.

While the area is generally dog-friendly for walks, road cycling routes are typically designed for bikes and may not be suitable for dogs running alongside. If you wish to bring your dog, it's recommended they are safely secured in a bike trailer designed for pets.

Parking is generally available in and around villages like Barton and Croft-On-Tees, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Specific parking facilities for cyclists may vary, so it's advisable to check local parking options at your chosen starting location.

Yes, many routes pass through or near small villages where you can find local pubs and cafes. For example, the Moulton BookStop – Scorton Village Green loop from Barton leads through villages where you can find refreshment stops. The Eppleby Village Shop & Tea Room is also a popular stop for cyclists.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Croft-On-Tees, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though cooler temperatures and increased chance of rain should be considered.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 190 reviews. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, gentle rural landscapes, the well-paved surfaces, and the charming historical elements like Croft Bridge that add character to the rides.