The best gravel rides around Gillamoor

There are around a dozen gravel bike trails available for exploration in the Gillamoor area. These routes offer a variety of experiences across the North York Moors, catering to different skill levels.

The North York Moors can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often provide the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking, with milder temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer can be excellent, but be prepared for potential heat and busier trails. Winter rides are possible but require appropriate gear for colder, potentially wet, and muddy conditions.

While many routes in Gillamoor are rated moderate to difficult due to significant elevation changes, some of the moderate trails could be suitable for beginners with a good level of fitness. For instance, the Blakey Bank Summit – Rosedale Chimney Bank Climb loop from Rosedale is a moderate 22.0 km route that offers a taste of the moorland without the most extreme challenges.

For advanced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, Gillamoor offers several difficult routes. The Hutton-le-Hole village – Blakey Bank Summit loop from Hutton-le-Hole is a demanding 37.9 km trail featuring significant climbs and expansive views. Another option is the Rievaulx Abbey – Helmsley Castle loop from Wombleton, a 36.2 km route with substantial elevation gain.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Gillamoor are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Sheriff's Pit – Blakey Bank Summit loop from Hutton-le-Hole and the Blakey Bank Summit – Sheriff's Pit loop from The Lion Inn, both offering varied terrain and scenic views.

Gravel biking around Gillamoor involves varied terrain typical of the North York Moors. You'll encounter compacted gravel tracks, quieter country lanes, and some sections with more rugged surfaces. Expect rolling hills, open moorland, and forested valleys, with notable elevation changes around features like Blakey Bank Summit and Rosedale Chimney Bank.

Yes, the routes often pass by or offer views of interesting landmarks and natural features. You might encounter historical sites like Ana Cross or Margery Bradley Standing Stone. For panoramic views, look out for trig points such as Roppa Edge trig point or summits like Spires Bank Summit.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Gillamoor, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the expansive views from the summits, the challenging climbs that reward with stunning vistas, and the sense of adventure found on the varied moorland and forest tracks.

Public transport options directly to trailheads in the immediate Gillamoor area can be limited, as it's a more rural part of the North York Moors. It's advisable to check local bus services for connections to nearby larger villages or towns like Helmsley or Kirkbymoorside, from where you might need to cycle to reach the starting points of the trails.

While Gillamoor itself is a small village, routes in the wider area often pass through or near other villages in the North York Moors where you can find cafes, pubs, or small shops for refreshments. For example, routes starting or passing through Hutton-le-Hole or Rosedale Abbey will offer opportunities to refuel. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer rides.

The gravel bike trails in Gillamoor vary in length, generally ranging from moderate to longer distances. You can find routes like the Blakey Bank Summit – Rosedale Chimney Bank Climb loop from Rosedale at 22.0 km, up to longer options such as the Hutton-le-Hole village – Blakey Bank Summit loop from Hutton-le-Hole, which covers 37.9 km.