The best road cycling routes around Roundhill Reservoir

There are over 60 road cycling routes available around Roundhill Reservoir, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars.

Road cycling around Roundhill Reservoir features diverse landscapes, including man-made lakes, expansive open moorland, and rolling hills within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The routes primarily consist of paved surfaces suitable for road bikes, often involving significant elevation gain.

The routes around Roundhill Reservoir cater to various fitness levels. You'll find options ranging from easy to difficult, with 15 easy routes, 38 moderate routes, and 11 difficult routes available. This variety ensures there's a suitable challenge for most road cyclists.

Yes, the region is rich in notable features. You can expect to see the tranquil waters of various reservoirs, expansive moorlands, and rolling hills. Historic structures like the Carlesmoor Sighting Tower and geological formations such as Millstone Grit are also part of the landscape. Combs Crags offers phenomenal views of Roundhill and Leighton Reservoirs, and the 19th-century folly, the Druid's Temple, is also accessible via some local routes.

A popular moderate route is the Pateley Bridge – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop from Lofthouse, which is 26.2 miles long and offers views of reservoir waters and expansive moorland. Another excellent choice is the Gouthwaite Reservoir – Pateley Bridge loop from Lofthouse, a 25.0-mile path incorporating tranquil reservoir waters and varied terrain.

For a longer ride with notable elevation, consider the Coverdale Road – Coverdale Valley loop from Ellington High and Low. This route spans 29.1 miles and leads through rolling hills and valleys, providing a challenging experience with over 700 meters of ascent.

Yes, there are easy options available. An example is the National Byway (Bedale Loop), which is 26.4 miles long with a more gentle elevation profile, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the challenging yet rewarding elevation gains, and the scenic beauty of the reservoirs and moorlands within the Nidderdale AONB.

Many of the road cycling routes around Roundhill Reservoir are designed as loops, offering circular journeys. For instance, the Masham Market Square – Pateley Bridge loop from Masham is a 30.2-mile circular route that takes you through picturesque landscapes.

The region's varied terrain and open moorlands mean that conditions can change. While cycling is possible year-round, spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant weather for enjoying the expansive views and rolling hills. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, there are several routes exceeding 25 miles. The Masham Market Square – Pateley Bridge loop from Masham, for example, is a substantial 30.2-mile route with over 760 meters of elevation gain, offering a full day's adventure.