Explore the Beauty and Spirit of the Yorkshire Wolds Cycle Route

Immerse yourself in the inspiring journey through the Yorkshire Wolds, discovering the scenic landscapes that surround Cherry Burton Luxury Lodge Park and the values that make this route a cherished experience for visitors and locals alike.

Cycling the Yorkshire Wolds: A Journey Through Quiet Beauty

Tucked between the Humber Estuary and the North Sea coast, the Yorkshire Wolds offer some of England’s finest cycling country. With rolling chalk hills, quiet country lanes, and charming market towns, the Yorkshire Wolds Cycle Route delivers a rewarding journey through a landscape that feels both timeless and undiscovered.

Overview of the Route

• Length: Approximately 143–147 miles (230–237 km)
• Start and Finish: Circular route — common starting points include Beverley, Pocklington, Driffield, or Bridlington
• Terrain: Mostly paved, quiet country roads with some short climbs and descents
• Time to Complete: 2–4 days for the full loop, or broken into shorter day rides

This is a route that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a multi-day tour or just a scenic afternoon loop, the Wolds provide the perfect backdrop for cycling.

Highlights Along the Way

• Market Towns: Beverley, Malton, Pocklington, Driffield — all filled with local character, independent shops, and great places to refuel
• Chalk Landscapes: The dry valleys of Thixendale and Millington Dale provide some of the most distinctive scenery in the region
• Historic Sites: Visit the deserted medieval village of Wharram Percy, the gardens of Burton Agnes Hall, or the ruins of Kirkham Priory
• Coastal Finish: On the eastern edge, the ride opens up to sea views at Bridlington and nearby Bempton Cliffs, home to thousands of nesting seabirds

Shorter Loops and Day Rides

If you’re not up for the full circular tour, there are plenty of excellent short routes. These include:

• Pocklington to Millington and Warter: A picturesque loop through valleys and hilltop villages (about 18 miles)
• Driffield to Bridlington: A relatively flat ride with a possible detour to Burton Agnes Hall (about 19 miles)
• Malton to Thixendale: A more challenging but scenic stretch (around 22 miles), ideal for experienced riders

These loops are part of the Big Skies Bike Rides series — a set of curated day rides designed to showcase the beauty and variety of the Wolds.

Navigation and Route Signage

The route uses a combination of National Cycle Network paths (Routes 1, 66, 164, 166, and 167). It’s well signposted throughout, but a GPS device or printed map is useful, especially in more rural areas.

If you’re looking for detailed navigation tools, the Sustrans Cycle Map 28 covers the Yorkshire Wolds and includes helpful wayfinding information.

When to Ride

Late spring through early autumn is the best time to cycle the Wolds. In May and June, the lanes are lined with wildflowers, and the weather is typically mild. July and August bring longer days and livelier towns, while September offers quiet roads and golden light across the hills.

Practical Tips

• Bike Type: A road, touring, or hybrid bike is ideal. Most of the surfaces are smooth, though a few short sections are unsealed
• Accommodation: Numerous B&Bs, small hotels, and campsites are available throughout the route. Booking ahead is recommended in summer
• Refreshments: Village pubs, cafés, and farm shops dot the route — great places to stop, recharge, and soak in the scenery
• Transport Links: Beverley, Driffield, Malton, and Bridlington all have rail stations, making it easy to plan circular or one-way journeys

A Route for Every Rider

Whether you’re seeking a weekend-long challenge, a quiet weekday ride, or a new coast-to-coast route, the Yorkshire Wolds Cycle Route is a refreshing alternative to busier cycling destinations. It’s a chance to ride at your own pace through an unspoiled corner of the countryside — past wind-sculpted hills, open fields, ancient ruins, and warm, welcoming villages.

This is Yorkshire at its gentlest, and cycling is the perfect way to experience it.