The best cycling routes around Settle

There are around 40 touring cycling routes in the Settle area, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes cater to various fitness levels, from easier paths along the River Ribble to more challenging climbs through the limestone landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales.

The terrain around Settle is characterized by its dramatic limestone landscape. You'll find a mix of rolling dales, river valleys like the Ribble (offering gentler gradients), and imposing escarpments. Routes often utilize quiet country lanes and bridleways, providing both on-road and off-road options. Expect varied gradients, with some challenging climbs, especially towards the Yorkshire Three Peaks area.

Yes, while many routes offer a challenge, there are easier options available. The River Ribble valley generally features gentler gradients, making it suitable for less experienced cyclists. While specific easy routes aren't detailed here, look for paths that stick to the valley floor for a more relaxed ride.

Settle is surrounded by stunning natural features. You might encounter the iconic Malham Cove with its unique limestone pavement, the dramatic Gordale Scar Waterfall, or the picturesque Catrigg Force Waterfall. The area also boasts the unique Norber Erratics and the impressive Ribblehead Viaduct, often visible on longer routes like the Ingleton & the Ribblehead Viaduct loop from Settle.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Settle are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the moderate Austwick Village – Settle Town Centre loop from Settle, which offers scenic views of Ribblesdale.

The touring cycling routes in Settle are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Over 900 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the stunning limestone landscapes, varied terrain, and the opportunity to experience the Yorkshire Dales.

Settle is well-served by the world-famous Settle-Carlisle Railway, which offers one of the most beautiful journeys in the UK. This railway line provides excellent access to the area, and many visitors combine a train journey with cycling. Check local train schedules for bike carriage policies.

Absolutely. The Settle area is home to several impressive waterfalls. You can find the thunderous Gordale Scar Waterfall and the picturesque Catrigg Force Waterfall. Stainforth Force, a series of dramatic cascades on the River Ribble, is also a popular spot, especially in autumn when salmon can be seen leaping.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most favorable conditions for touring cycling in Settle, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn can be particularly scenic with changing foliage, and you might even spot salmon leaping at Stainforth Force. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions in the Dales can change rapidly.

Yes, Settle offers numerous challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists. For instance, the Slaidburn War Memorial – View of Slaidburn loop from Settle is a difficult 66.8 km trail that takes over 4 hours to complete, leading through the wider Yorkshire Dales landscape with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Settle Town Centre – Lambert Lane loop from Settle.

Settle and its surrounding villages are cycle-friendly, offering various places to refuel. The town of Settle itself has cafes and pubs. The 'Settle Down Café' is known to be popular among cyclists, offering bike parking and breakfast. Many guest houses also cater to cyclists, providing advice and amenities.

While Settle is known as the gateway to the Yorkshire Three Peaks (Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough), many touring cycling routes offer magnificent views of these iconic fells from a distance. Routes that traverse the wider Yorkshire Dales landscape, such as the 3 Peaks Café & Bike Shop – Settle Town Centre loop from Settle, will provide excellent vistas of these challenging peaks.