The best cycling routes around Thornton-Le-Dale
4.8
(19)
1,268
riders
35
rides
Touring cycling around Thornton-Le-Dale offers access to the North York Moors National Park, characterized by open moorland, dense forests, and rolling hills. The region features varied terrain, with ground rising north towards the moors and falling south towards the River Derwent. Dalby Forest, an 8,000-acre woodland, provides a network of dedicated cycling trails. Thornton Beck meanders through the village, adding to the local landscape.
Best touring cycling routes around Thornton-Le-Dale
- The most popular touring cycling route is Ellerburn GREEN Trail…
Last updated: April 29, 2026
5.0
(5)
107
riders
5.46km
00:31
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
47
riders
17.2km
01:39
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
291
riders
30.6km
02:48
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
203
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Thornton-Le-Dale
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MTB Trails in the North York Moors National Park
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Lovely pushchair friendly walks in and around the North York Moors
MTB Trails around Thornton-Le-Dale
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Tips from the Community
Many paths. Quiet and beautiful. Perfect for a mountain and a gravel bike.
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Cafe & bike shop both take card payments (and apple payments even if theres no signal). Great place to stop for a slice of cake, sandwich and a coffee. Or bike repairs if needed (and a bit of clothes shopping with all the latest brands there).
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dalby forest mountain biking, cafe, walks, park bike hire, awesome mountain biking
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This location was about 10 miles into this trail. It is a crossroads in Dalby Forest. You can rest the bikes against several fences & gates, then sit down on an elevated drain type seat. Good point to rehydrate and eat
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Whether starting your ride or finishing it here, this is a great place to stop. There is a great café here, which serves great food, and a general store - two in one - so you will be sorted for energy for your ride before starting out or re-energise your weary muscles at the end of it. There is a lovely green outside, too - an all-rounder, really!
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A very pretty ford on the western edge of Cropton Forest over Hartoft Beck, right next to the farm at Low Muffles. A pretty woodland area where you're immersed in this sense of calm and quietness. You're advised to use the footbridge as the ford is typically too treacherous to ride through on the bike.
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This is the usual place where people go when they choose to do their Dalby Forest adventures! There's a car park, a café, tourist information, trail maps, bike hire, and much more. This forest is in a dark skies area too, so there are two observatories here hosting stargazing events from time to time. An obvious place to make a stop on your Tour, particularly if you need some good coffee and much-desired flapjack!
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This is the usual place where people go when they choose to do their Dalby Forest adventures! There is a car park here, a café, tourist information, trail maps, a bike hire place and much more. This area is a dark skies area, and so there are two observatories here hosting stargazing events from time to time! An obvious place to make a stop on your tour, particularly if you need some good coffee and much-desired flapjack.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Thornton-Le-Dale?
There are over 35 touring cycling routes around Thornton-Le-Dale, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 1,200 times.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Thornton-Le-Dale?
Yes, Thornton-Le-Dale offers 8 easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. A great option is the Ellerburn GREEN Trail — Dalby Forest, a gentle 3.4-mile path through the forest.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Thornton-Le-Dale?
The terrain around Thornton-Le-Dale is diverse, ranging from open moorland and dense forests to rolling hills. You'll find low-level valley rides, as well as more demanding routes through dales and high-level country lanes with superb views over the North York Moors.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes around Thornton-Le-Dale?
Yes, the region offers several circular touring cycling routes. For example, a demanding 30-mile circular road ride takes you through forests and dales, including parts of Dalby Forest. Another 30-mile option offers high-level country lane riding with great views over the moors and forests, passing through Pickering, Hutton Le Hole, and Marton.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists, there are 7 difficult routes available. A notable challenging option is the Moor to Sea Cycle Network: 11b Dalby to Rosedale Abbey, a 14.8-mile trail leading through the North York Moors National Park with significant elevation changes.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Thornton-Le-Dale?
Yes, Dalby Forest, just north of Thornton-Le-Dale, is an excellent spot for family-friendly cycling. It features a network of dedicated trails suitable for various abilities, including easy routes like the Ellerburn GREEN Trail. The village itself also has a pleasant nature trail around the pond.
Are dogs allowed on touring cycling routes near Thornton-Le-Dale?
Many outdoor areas in the North York Moors National Park and Dalby Forest are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations or local signage. Generally, dogs are welcome on leads on most public rights of way. For specific routes, look for information on komoot or local visitor guides.
Where can I park my car when cycling in Thornton-Le-Dale or Dalby Forest?
Parking is available in Thornton-Le-Dale village. For Dalby Forest, there are dedicated car parks, including at the Dalby Forest Visitor Centre. Please note that Dalby Forest typically has parking fees.
Are there places to rent bikes in Thornton-Le-Dale or nearby?
Yes, bike hire is available within Dalby Forest, which is a short journey north of Thornton-Le-Dale. Businesses like Dalby Bike Barn offer bike rental services, making it convenient to explore the forest trails.
What attractions or points of interest can I see along touring cycling routes?
Beyond the natural beauty of the North York Moors and Dalby Forest, you can explore several attractions. Highlights include the Dalby Forest Visitor Centre, Dalby Forest mountain bike trails, and viewpoints like Dundale Griff. The village of Thornton-Le-Dale itself is picturesque, with thatched cottages and Thornton Beck.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Thornton-Le-Dale?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 19 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, from open moorland to dense forests, and the well-maintained trails, especially within Dalby Forest. The mix of easy and challenging routes also receives positive feedback.
Are there any touring cycling routes that feature the Dalby Forest stage of the Tour of Britain?
Yes, a demanding 30-mile circular road ride through forests and dales in the area includes sections that were part of the Dalby Forest stage of the Tour of Britain, offering a chance to cycle on routes used by professional cyclists.
Most popular routes around Thornton-Le-Dale
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