The best cycling routes around Barningham
4.5
(58)
1,908
riders
77
rides
Touring cycling around Barningham, County Durham, offers access to the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors National Park. The region is characterized by challenging terrains, including significant climbs and descents, providing wide, open views over areas like Swaledale. Cyclists will encounter varied landscapes, from rolling hills to more mountainous sections, with routes often featuring substantial elevation gains. This area provides a gateway to extensive national cycle routes, catering to those seeking demanding rides.
Best touring cycling routes around Barningham
- The…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
78.4km
05:26
1,130m
1,130m
Cycle the challenging 48.7-mile Tan Hill Inn & Reeth loop from Barnard Castle, gaining 3704 feet through remote Yorkshire Dales scenery.
21
riders
51.7km
03:35
930m
930m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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14
riders
81.3km
05:34
1,310m
1,320m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
riders
47.2km
03:23
800m
800m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
11
riders
45.7km
03:18
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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
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!
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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
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In the case of a "market cross," as we encounter here again, one would have to ask the fundamental question of whether it is actually primarily a small sacred monument—as its cross shape suggests—or whether it is more of a secular object. In times long past, such a cross—unlike classic wayside crosses or field crosses—was only allowed to be erected if the corresponding locality also possessed so-called "market rights"—that is, if it had been granted them by the local ruler.
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It rained for the entire ride. we didn't find Tan Hill but had an amazing time trying!!
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Open 10-4 everyday except Tuesday. Great coffee and cake, bacon/sausage butties. Enough bike parking for a group ride, plus a maintenance station with pump and tools. Walkers, runners, kayakers and dogs all welcome!
1
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Fantastic place to stop for lunch, or coffee and cake. Safe bike-parking round the back. Open 10-4 every day (closed Tuesdays).
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Barningham?
There are nearly 80 touring cycling routes around Barningham listed on komoot, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Barningham?
The terrain around Barningham, particularly as a gateway to the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors, is characterized by significant climbs and descents. You'll encounter rolling hills and more mountainous sections, often with substantial elevation gains, providing challenging rides and wide, open views over areas like Swaledale.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Barningham?
While many routes in the Barningham area are challenging, there are about 10 routes considered easy, and 34 moderate routes. These offer less demanding options for those new to touring cycling or seeking a more relaxed ride.
What historical landmarks can I see while touring cycling near Barningham?
The region is rich in history. You can encounter sites like Bowes Castle Ruins, or explore the area around Deepdale Footbridge with views of Barnard Castle. Further afield, you might find Egglestone Abbey Ruins and Ravensworth Castle Ruins.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Barningham area?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Barningham are designed as loops. For example, the challenging The Tan Hill Inn & Reeth loop from Barnard Castle and the Tan Hill Inn – Tan Hill Inn loop from Barnard Castle are popular circular options.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Barningham?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, wide-open views over areas like Swaledale, and the access to extensive national cycle routes.
Are there any cycle-friendly cafes or facilities along the routes?
Yes, some villages in the vicinity offer amenities for cyclists. For instance, you can find the Dales Bike Centre & Café, which is a popular stop, and the Eppleby Village Shop & Tea Room, known for being cycle-friendly.
Can I find routes that offer scenic viewpoints?
Absolutely. The routes around Barningham are known for their wide, open views, especially over Swaledale. Notable climbs like Grinton Moor and Grinton Moor Climb – Greets Moss Summit offer particularly rewarding vistas.
What is the typical length of touring cycling routes in Barningham?
Route lengths vary significantly. For example, the Tan Hill Inn & Reeth loop is about 48.7 miles (78.4 km), while the Feldom Firing Range – View of Kirby Hill Village loop is around 33.9 miles (54.5 km). There are options for both shorter and longer rides.
Is Barningham in County Durham a good starting point for longer national cycle routes?
Yes, Barningham in County Durham serves as a gateway to major cycle routes. It's a starting point for sections of the Walney to Whitby (W2W) cycle route (National Route 165), which traverses the Tees Valley, Kildale Moor, and the North York Moors National Park.
Are there any less crowded touring cycling routes in the Barningham area?
While specific crowd levels aren't tracked, exploring some of the less-known local loops or routes that venture deeper into the Dales away from main roads might offer a quieter experience. Komoot's route planner can help you discover less frequented paths.
What natural features can I expect to see on a touring cycling trip near Barningham?
The Barningham area, being close to the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors, offers diverse natural landscapes. You'll experience wide, open moorland views, river valleys, and rolling hills. While ancient woodlands are less common, hedgerows are prevalent, and the overall scenery is characteristic of the dramatic northern English countryside.
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