4.2
(6)
60
riders
15
rides
Mountain biking around Scargill offers routes through a landscape shaped by prominent limestone geology, ancient woodlands, and the scenic River Wharfe. The area features dramatic limestone scree outcrops and views of peaks like Great Whernside. While Scargill itself is known for its tranquil environment, its location within the Yorkshire Dales provides access to varied terrain, including moorland climbs and descents. The region's natural features create diverse mountain bike trails.
Last updated: September 29, 2026
4.0
(1)
5
riders
39.3km
03:48
970m
970m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
11
riders
47.5km
03:24
650m
650m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

10
riders
19.3km
01:33
430m
430m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4
riders
12.2km
01:05
310m
310m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
2
riders
20.0km
01:16
270m
270m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. 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.
3
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
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
We called in here on a busy but wet bank holiday Sunday after hiking nearby Hoove Hill. Despite the horrid weather, the pub cheered us up no end. We had nice service—I mean, really nice, friendly smiles, polite, attentive, and were super quick. The food was also good, not the biggest portions I have had in a pub, but it was all very filling, quick, and well presented. All this at a decent price too. £42, for a main course meal with two drinks. It is obvious that the highest pub in Britain also has high standards, see you again soon!
0
0
Thought of as the capital of Swaledale, Reeth is a village with a history as rich as its scenery. Incredibly, in its mining heyday, it was producing a tenth of England's lead. Today, its industrial past is evident on the high moorlands, while Swaledale is a tranquil hikers' haven, quieter than the more accessible dales further south. There are plenty of places to eat and stay, including the Black Bull, which dates back to 1680.
4
0
Constructed during the Victorian era, this footbridge spanning the River Tees was initially designed to convey water from the elevated moorland to the coastal industrial towns. it now serves as a cycling and pedestrian bridge, with fantastic views over the water, including that of the castle.
1
0
These impressive Bowes Castle ruins are free to visit. Although not much of the fort is left standing, you can visit the interior of the castle and imagine yourself back in time. The current castle dates from 1187 but was built on what was once the foundations of a Roman fortification. For more information visit: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/bowes-castle/history/
1
0
A very pretty Dales village with its impressive village green.
2
0
There are 15 mountain bike trails available around Scargill. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy rides to more challenging ascents and descents through the Yorkshire Dales landscape.
Mountain biking around Scargill is characterized by its distinctive limestone geology, ancient woodlands, and the scenic River Wharfe. You'll encounter dramatic limestone scree outcrops and enjoy breathtaking views of peaks like Great Whernside, all within the varied terrain of the Yorkshire Dales.
The trails around Scargill cater to various skill levels. There is 1 easy route, 11 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes, ensuring options for beginners, intermediate riders, and advanced mountain bikers looking for a challenge.
The mountain bike trails around Scargill are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.25 stars from more than 4 reviews. Over 60 mountain bikers have explored this area using komoot, often praising the diverse terrain and scenic beauty.
Yes, there is an easy mountain bike trail available. A good option for beginners is the Bowes Castle Ruins – Bowes Castle Ruins loop from Barnard Castle, which is 12.2 miles (19.5 km) long and offers a gentle introduction to the area's cycling.
Yes, for advanced riders seeking a challenge, there are 3 difficult mountain bike routes around Scargill. These trails typically feature more significant elevation changes and technical sections, providing a demanding experience.
Many routes in the Scargill area offer scenic viewpoints, particularly of the dramatic limestone landscape and peaks like Great Whernside. The region's natural features, including the River Wharfe and ancient woodlands, provide numerous picturesque spots. For example, the View of Langwaith – The Red Lion Inn loop from Arkengarthdale offers views through the Arkengarthdale area.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Scargill are designed as loops. For instance, the popular Bowes Castle Ruins – Tan Hill Inn loop from Barnard Castle is a 29.8-mile circular trail, and the Reeth Village Green – Dales Bike Centre & Café loop from Washfold is a moderate 12.0-mile loop.
While mountain biking around Scargill, you can encounter several interesting attractions. The Bowes Castle Ruins – Tan Hill Inn loop from Barnard Castle connects historical ruins with the famous Tan Hill Inn – Britain's Highest Inn. Another route passes by Reeth Village Green. You might also spot natural features like Blackton Reservoir or the Hury Reservoir Dam.
Yes, some routes are conveniently located near local establishments. The Bowes Castle Ruins – Tan Hill Inn loop from Barnard Castle includes the well-known Tan Hill Inn. Another option is the Reeth Village Green – Dales Bike Centre & Café loop from Washfold, which passes by a popular bike centre with a café, and the View of Langwaith – The Red Lion Inn loop from Arkengarthdale leads to The Red Lion Inn.
The duration of mountain bike trails around Scargill varies significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. For example, a moderate route like the View of Langwaith – The Red Lion Inn loop from Arkengarthdale can take about 1 hour 5 minutes, while a longer moderate trail such as the Bowes Castle Ruins – Tan Hill Inn loop from Barnard Castle typically takes around 3 hours 27 minutes.
Yes, the Scargill area is known for its ancient woodlands, some continuously wooded since at least 1600. While specific mountain bike trails through these exact woodlands aren't detailed, the routes often traverse areas with rich tree cover and natural environments that contribute to the region's biodiversity and offer peaceful sections for riding.


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