4.5
(83)
2,962
riders
46
rides
Touring cycling around Grinton is characterized by its location within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, offering a landscape of rolling hills and valleys. The village is situated on the south bank of the River Swale, providing scenic riverside routes. Grinton Moor rises above the village, presenting challenging climbs and expansive views for cyclists. This area features diverse terrain, from valley floors to moorland ascents, suitable for various touring cycling experiences.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.2
(5)
192
riders
46.0km
03:18
840m
840m
Cycle a difficult 28.6-mile loop from Grinton to the Tan Hill Inn and Gunnerside, featuring moorland views and significant climbs.
4.8
(6)
136
riders
22.2km
01:42
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.4
(5)
130
riders
41.3km
02:58
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
90
riders
19.2km
02:00
540m
540m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
61
riders
34.8km
02:59
790m
790m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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One of the largest and most open village greens in the Yorkshire Dales, historically used for markets, fairs, and livestock trading — the social heart of Swaledale long before tourism arrived. The green’s broad, triangular shape reflects its medieval origins as a common grazing and gathering space. Plenty of parking around the village green, but having arrived at 7am in winter for a hike and finding them all full, I suspect other times of the year will be even more difficult to secure a space.
2
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Immaculately preserved lead‑smelting site, with its long flue system still traceable up the hillside — a Victorian attempt to capture valuable lead fumes before they escaped. The mill sits in a dramatic little side‑valley of Grinton Moor, spectacular when under a blanket of snow in winter.
1
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A classic stretch of high Pennine moorland, shaped by centuries of lead‑mining, with old hushes, spoil heaps, and trackways still etched into the heather. The moor forms part of the Reeth–Grinton–Harkerside upland block, giving wide, open views over Swaledale. Spectacular under a layer of snow in winter.
1
0
A wonderful village on the Coast to Coast Path. There are plenty of places to stay around the village green. The village youth play football on the lawn, including the very young ones. Very nice!
1
0
Great place to stay, luxurious and friendly and they even stick black sheep brewery Holy Grail Ale. Truly a wonder to behold
0
0
Leave some extra time if you’ve enjoyed the food at Dales Bike Centre Café. Also be prepared for the Stang or more climbs after this starter
0
0
It rained for the entire ride. we didn't find Tan Hill but had an amazing time trying!!
0
0
We have made a full video of the route so you can judge whether it is suitable: https://youtu.be/SZ25s_rxPzM
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There are over 45 touring cycling routes available around Grinton, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
The routes around Grinton cater to various abilities. You'll find 2 easy routes, 15 moderate routes, and 29 difficult routes, ensuring there's a challenge for every touring cyclist.
Grinton is nestled in the scenic Swaledale valley within the Yorkshire Dales National Park. You can expect dramatic backdrops of rolling hills, the picturesque River Swale, and challenging ascents onto Grinton Moor, which offers expansive views across the Dales.
While many routes involve climbs, the Swale Trail – Swale Trail loop from Reeth is a moderate option that follows the River Swale, combining gravel and tarmac sections. It's a good choice for families looking for a less strenuous ride with varied scenery.
Yes, many routes around Grinton are designed as loops. For instance, the challenging Tan Hill Inn & Gunnerside loop from Grinton offers a substantial circular ride through the Dales.
The touring cycling routes around Grinton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from riverside paths to challenging moorland climbs, and the stunning natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
Yes, Grinton Moor, which rises above the village, was notably part of the Tour de France route in 2014 and the UCI World Championships in 2019. Routes like the difficult High Harker Hill Trail – Grinton Moor loop from Reeth will take you over parts of this iconic terrain.
Grinton village has parking facilities available for visitors. It's advisable to check local signage for specific car park locations and any potential fees or restrictions.
Grinton is a charming village with local amenities. There is a public house that welcomes cyclists and walkers, often hosting folk music nights, providing a welcoming stop for refreshments and a taste of local culture.
Yes, the wider area around Grinton is rich in natural beauty. You can find several waterfalls and natural monuments. Notable examples include Aysgarth Lower Falls, Aysgarth Middle Falls, and East Gill Force. Many routes offer opportunities to visit these scenic spots.
The Swale Trail is an excellent route for gravel and mountain biking that follows the River Swale upstream. It combines both gravel and tarmac sections, offering diverse terrain and stunning scenery. The moderate Swale Trail – Swale Trail loop from Reeth is a popular option for touring cyclists.
Absolutely. St Andrew's Church in Grinton, known as 'The Cathedral of the Dales,' is a significant historical landmark dating back to the 12th century. Additionally, the Corpse Way, a historic footpath between Grinton and Keld, offers a glimpse into the region's past and can be incorporated into some cycling routes.


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