Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve
Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve
The best cycling routes in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve
4.7
(122)
1,202
riders
109
rides
Touring cycling in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve features a predominantly flat landscape, characterized by open heathland, ancient woodlands, and agricultural fields. The terrain offers gentle gradients, making it suitable for various cycling abilities. This National Nature Reserve provides a network of paths through diverse habitats, including ponds and marshy areas, alongside more open countryside.
Best touring cycling routes in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve
- The most popular touring cycling route is The Natterjack – South Duffield Windmill loop from Skipwith, an 17.4 miles (28.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 38 minutes to complete, offering views of the local countryside and a windmill.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Naburn Railway Bridge – Millennium Bridge York loop from Barlby with Osgodby, a moderate 25.6 miles (41.2 km) path. This route includes riverside sections and passes by notable bridges.
- Local touring cyclists also love the The Natterjack – Celandines and Daffodils loop from North Duffield, a 22.9 miles (36.9 km) trail leading through natural flora and open fields, often completed in about 2 hours 6 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve is defined by flat paths, open heathland, and wooded sections. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and some more challenging routes.
- The routes in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 90 reviews. More than 1200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 11, 2026
11
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(41)
371
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
12
riders
54.2km
03:04
60m
60m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
16.0km
00:55
10m
10m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
South Duffield Windmill is a Grade II‑listed early‑19th‑century brick tower mill, first recorded in 1311, rebuilt around 1800, used for cereal grinding until the 1930s, briefly re‑used in WWII, then converted into a private house in the 2010s.
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A large wire figure of a man in a bobble hat sitting on top of the bridge, with a fishing rod hanging out over the River Ouse, on the end of his line he has caught the 'Flying Scotsman' train which used to run on the railway line that used this bridge – now decommissioned. It is part of the Sustrans route 65 cycle way. Source: https://artuk.org/discover/artworks/fisher-of-dreams-324103
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Built in 2001 for over £4m, the York Millennium Bridge is a pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Ouse in York, England. It connects New Walk to Terry Avenue, south of the city centre, and is part of a popular circular walking route. The bridge was designed to shorten the walking and cycling routes for people in the South Bank area of the city to the University of York and the city centre. If you are a pedestrian, then keep your wits about you. Cyclists will not give you any room and will not slow down either.
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The bridge over the River Ouse features a single leaning arch with cables fanned out like bicycle spokes, symbolizing its purpose as a key link for walkers and cyclists.
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The Pocklington Canal was constructed at the beginning of the 19th century to transport agricultural goods from the East Riding to the larger urban centres to the south and west. A Bill was placed before Parliament in 1814 and the canal was designed by George Leather Jnr, an experienced navigation engineer who worked on Goole Docks and the Knottingley and Goole Canal. The canal was opened in 1818, running for 9.5 miles from the River Derwent at East Cottingwith to a mile south of Pocklington. The cost was £32,695, which was actually less than the original estimate. Hagg Bridge is one of four bridges crossing the canal designed by George Leather.
2
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Off-road parking, could easily fit 10-12 or so cars in here.
2
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Smaller parking area, with space for around half a dozen cars or so.
2
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve?
There are over 100 touring cycling routes available in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve, offering a wide range of options for exploring the area's unique landscape.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve is well-suited for beginners and families, with over 60 easy touring cycling routes. The terrain is predominantly flat with gentle gradients, making it accessible for various cycling abilities. An example of an easy route is The Natterjack – South Duffield Windmill loop from Skipwith.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Skipwith Common?
The touring cycling routes in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve feature a predominantly flat landscape, characterized by open heathland, ancient woodlands, and agricultural fields. You'll find a network of paths through diverse habitats, including ponds and marshy areas, alongside more open countryside.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve?
Many of the touring cycling routes in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, The Natterjack – Celandines and Daffodils loop from North Duffield is a popular circular option.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Skipwith Common?
Spring and summer are ideal for touring cycling in Skipwith Common, offering pleasant weather and vibrant natural scenery, including blooming wildflowers. Autumn also provides beautiful colours, while winter can be enjoyed on clearer days, though some paths might be muddier.
Are dogs allowed on the touring cycling routes in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the touring cycling routes in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve. However, as it is a National Nature Reserve with sensitive wildlife and often grazing animals, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, to protect wildlife and livestock.
What wildlife might I see while cycling through Skipwith Common?
Skipwith Common is rich in wildlife. Cyclists might spot various bird species, including ground-nesting birds, and potentially deer, stoats, or weasels. The reserve is also home to rare insects and amphibians, such as the Natterjack toad, especially around the ponds and heathland areas.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the touring cycling routes for refreshments?
While Skipwith Common itself is a nature reserve, surrounding villages like Skipwith, North Duffield, and Barlby offer local pubs and cafes where you can stop for refreshments. Routes like Allerthorpe Common – World Peace Cafe loop from North Duffield might pass closer to such amenities.
What should I bring for a touring bike ride in Skipwith Common?
Given the natural environment, it's advisable to bring water, snacks, a basic repair kit, and appropriate clothing for the weather. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also recommended, especially during warmer months. A map or GPS device is useful for navigation.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from nearly 100 reviews. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, flat routes, the diverse natural scenery, and the opportunity to observe wildlife in a tranquil setting.
Are there any notable landmarks or viewpoints along the touring cycling routes?
While Skipwith Common is primarily known for its natural beauty, some routes offer glimpses of local landmarks. For example, The Natterjack – South Duffield Windmill loop from Skipwith offers views of a local windmill, and Naburn Railway Bridge – Millennium Bridge York loop from Barlby with Osgodby includes riverside sections and passes by notable bridges.
What are the parking options for accessing touring cycling routes in Skipwith Common?
Parking is typically available at designated car parks around the perimeter of Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve, often near main access points or trailheads. Specific parking information can usually be found on local council or nature reserve websites.
Most popular routes in Skipwith Common National Nature Reserve
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