The best traffic-free bike rides around Angram Reservoir

There are several dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Angram Reservoir, offering a peaceful experience. Our guide features 5 routes, all of which are rated as moderate difficulty, providing a good challenge for most cyclists.

The routes around Angram Reservoir are known for their tranquility, often utilizing quiet country lanes, reservoir access roads, or paths specifically designed to minimize vehicle interaction. This allows cyclists to enjoy the stunning Nidderdale AONB scenery without the disturbance of heavy traffic.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Coverdale Road – Coverdale Valley loop from St Botolph offers a scenic circular ride through the valley.

You'll be treated to classic Nidderdale AONB landscapes, including views of rolling hills, expansive farmland, and the impressive Angram and Scar House Reservoirs. The routes often follow the reservoir edges, providing captivating waterside vistas and opportunities for birdwatching. The area is rich in natural beauty and offers a sense of remoteness.

While all routes in this guide are rated as moderate difficulty due to their length and elevation, the paved surfaces make them accessible for cyclists with some experience. For families or beginners, shorter sections of the reservoir roads can be enjoyed, though full routes may require good fitness. Always check the route details for specific distances and climbs.

Parking is available at various points around the reservoirs, often with dedicated picnic areas and viewing platforms. The village of Kettlewell, which serves as a starting point for some routes like the Malham Cove Climb – Linton Falls loop, also offers parking facilities.

Beyond the reservoirs themselves, you can see the impressive Scar House Dam, an engineering marvel offering panoramic views. Some routes, like the Pateley Bridge – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop, take you directly past it. You might also spot remnants of the former village of Lodge, cleared during the reservoir's construction, offering a glimpse into local history.

Yes, the nearby village of Kettlewell is a great spot to refuel, offering pubs and cafes. Depending on your chosen route, other small villages in the Nidderdale area may also provide amenities. The Malham Cove Climb – Kilnsey Crag loop, for instance, starts from Kettlewell.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience around Angram Reservoir, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 22 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning, quiet landscapes, the sense of escape, and the well-maintained paved surfaces that allow for enjoyable, traffic-free riding.

The longest route in this guide is the Malham Cove Climb – Linton Falls loop from Kettlewell with Starbotton, covering approximately 51.9 kilometers with over 700 meters of elevation gain. It offers a significant challenge and extensive views.

While most of the routes are on paved surfaces suitable for road bikes, some segments, particularly along the northern side of Scar House Reservoir, may be unpaved or uneven. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details on komoot for surface information if you prefer entirely smooth tarmac.