The best road cycling routes around Rosedale West Side

There are over 60 road cycling routes in the Rosedale West Side area, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 13 easy routes, 33 moderate routes, and 20 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels.

Road cycling in Rosedale West Side, situated within the North York Moors National Park, features varied terrain. You'll encounter expansive heather moorland, scenic valleys, and challenging climbs, including the notable Rosedale Chimney Bank. Routes often follow country roads and offer views of historic iron workings.

Yes, Rosedale West Side is known for its challenging climbs, such as the formidable Rosedale Chimney Bank. For a significant test, consider the Blakey Bank Summit – Whitby Harbour loop from The Lion Inn, a difficult 75 km route with over 1,100 meters of elevation gain, leading through moorland and towards the coast.

For an easier ride, the Rosedale Abbey to Pickering — North York Moors Cycleway is an excellent choice. This 18.6 km route follows a section of the North York Moors Cycleway and is considered easy, making it suitable for a more relaxed outing.

As you cycle, you can explore remnants of the region's industrial past, such as the Bank Top Iron Kilns. For stunning views, routes often pass by viewpoints like Dundale Griff or lead towards high points like Urra Moor – Highest Point of the North York Moors.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Keys Beck Road – Pry Hills Lane loop from Rosedale Abbey is a moderate 50 km circular path featuring significant elevation gain through the Rosedale area.

The North York Moors, including Rosedale West Side, are particularly beautiful during late summer and early autumn when the heather is in bloom, offering vibrant purple landscapes. Spring and early summer also provide pleasant conditions, though weather can be unpredictable year-round. Always check forecasts before heading out.

Rosedale Abbey village offers amenities for visitors. Additionally, the remote Blakey Ridge is home to The Lion Inn, a historic pub that provides food, drink, and accommodation, offering breathtaking views over the Rosedale and Farndale valleys.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning heather moorland scenery, the variety of routes from easy to challenging, and the opportunity to explore the unique landscape of the North York Moors.

Yes, the North York Moors Cycleway, a 171-mile figure-of-eight loop, traverses the region, with a section connecting Osmotherley to Rosedale Abbey. This provides opportunities for longer rides and multi-day tours, allowing you to experience the diverse landscapes of heather moorland, hidden valleys, and coastlines.

Access to Rosedale West Side and the North York Moors by public transport can be limited, especially to more remote starting points. It's advisable to research local bus services to Rosedale Abbey or nearby towns like Pickering, which may offer connections, but direct access to all trailheads might require personal transport.

Parking is typically available in and around Rosedale Abbey village. For routes starting from other points, such as The Lion Inn on Blakey Ridge, dedicated parking facilities are usually provided. Always check for specific parking information for your chosen route's starting point.