Cycling in Nidderdale
Cycle Route summary: This is a relatively easy cycle ride in Nidderdale, an area of Outstanding National Beauty (AONB) in the Yorkshire Dales. The cycle ride is approximately 12 miles each way from Pateley Bridge to Scar House Reservoir, above Lofthouse, so a round trip of 24 miles. The cycle route up to the reservoir is along a quiet road (though on weekends in the summer there may be more traffic heading up to the reservoir) and is reasonably flat with a few gentle ups and downs along the way following the path of the River Nidd. It is slightly upwards on the way there but this is not really noticeable. The return journey will seem easier and effortless as you coast gently downwards (in fact you can free wheel the whole four miles without having to engae the pedals from Scar Reservoir to Lofthouse). The whole cyclic route is extremely scenic and the views of the valley, hills and reservoirs are wonderful. On the way you pass three pubs and cycle through the villages of Ramsgill and Lofthouse before heading up to Scar House and Angram reservoirs. It is also possible to extend the ride by cycling around Scar House reservoir on the bridleway in high Nidderdale.
Route notes: Park in Bewerley Park, Pateley Bridge (own bikes needed) and then at the junction with the garage on the corner, take the road to Wath, Lofthouse and Middlesmoor. Follow this road all the way to Lofthouse, passing Gouthwaite Reservoir along the way. You will pass several pubs - the Sportsmans Arms in Wath (just off to the right of the road and apparently good for food), the Yorke Arms in Ramsgill (Michelin star rated classy fine dining though fine to sit outside for a drink) and the Crown Hotel in Lofthouse.
Upon reaching Lofthouse, ingore the turn-off to Masham, but take the next right turn at the cricket club and follow this road for about 4 miles up to Scar Reservoir located high in Nidderdale. This section begins relatively flat and the last section is more uphill but gradual and not difficult. At the top, admire the views, have a picnic or just relax before heading back down to Pateley Bridge, an easy return ride as you can freewheel downhill for much of it.
This entry was posted on Thursday August 13th, 2009 at 9:33 PM and is filed under Places to Cycle. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response.
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