4.5
(148)
4,282
riders
275
rides
Touring cycling routes around Meltham are situated in West Yorkshire, bordering the Peak District National Park. The area features diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, expansive moorland, and valleys with reservoirs. This terrain provides varied elevation changes and scenic backdrops for cycling. The region's proximity to the Pennines contributes to its character of varied gradients and open vistas.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
11
riders
28.3km
02:03
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
39.0km
02:37
620m
620m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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8
riders
36.1km
02:29
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
5
riders
15.3km
01:09
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
17.0km
01:12
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Take your time down this section as it can get quite busy with people, dog walkers, and cyclists. Some sections are newly laid tarmac but other areas are hardstanding compacted stone. The canal does narrow in parts but all ridable with caution at the locks.
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If you’re driving park on The Cobbles, the road that goes down the side of Morrisons- there’s plenty of room! But the main thing to remember about Folly Dolly is it come after heavy rain! In the summer it can be a tricky rock face, after heavy rain you can hear it miles away.
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Handmade Bakery is a popular choice for a decent pastry and coffee. Get them at opening time.
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Ashley Jackson wrote the following quote in 1950 “To see the spirit of Yorkshire and its moors through your eyes is one thing Many people look but only a few will see and feel its very soul.” To share his passion for the ever-changing landscape and allow us to see the beauty of the area through the season, the artist has partnered with the National Trust to install 6 frames around the area. One of which is this one, framing the Wessenden moor and reservoir.
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There are over 290 touring cycling routes around Meltham, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with about 23 easy routes, 118 moderate routes, and 151 difficult routes for those seeking a challenge.
Meltham's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain, including rolling hills, expansive moorland, and valleys with reservoirs. You'll encounter varied elevation changes, from gentle gradients on disused railway lines to more challenging climbs in the Pennines and near the Peak District.
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Meltham are circular. For example, you could try the Slaithwaite village and canal – Marsden Mill loop from Meltham, which offers varied scenery, or the Calmlands Track loop from Meltham for a moderate ride.
The region offers several impressive natural features and viewpoints. You might encounter the tranquil Dovestone Reservoir, or for expansive views, consider routes that pass near Black Hill Trig Point or Black Chew Head Summit Cairn. The dramatic rock formation known as The Trinnacle is also a popular sight.
Yes, while many routes involve rolling hills, there are options suitable for families and beginners. The National Route 689, also known as the Meltham Greenway, utilizes a disused railway line, offering a mostly traffic-free and gentle gradient. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' in the komoot guide for less challenging options.
Yes, Meltham offers connections to broader cycling networks. The National Route 689 (Meltham Greenway) links with the Pennine Cycleway. Additionally, Meltham's proximity to the Peak District places it near sections of the Trans Pennine Trail, which is known for its mostly traffic-free paths and gentle gradients, ideal for touring cyclists.
The touring cycling routes in Meltham are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 150 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic backdrops of rolling hills and moorland, and the well-maintained paths that offer a rewarding experience.
Absolutely. The area is known for its reservoirs. A popular route is the Digley Reservoir – Holmfirth town centre loop from Meltham, which takes you through reservoir areas. You can also find routes that follow canal paths, such as the Slaithwaite village and canal – Marsden Mill loop from Meltham.
The best time for touring cycling in Meltham is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. While cycling is possible year-round, the moorland areas can be boggy and exposed in winter, and conditions can be more challenging.
Yes, Meltham is situated in a hilly region, offering challenging routes for experienced cyclists. For instance, the Flight Hill – Holmfirth town centre loop from Meltham features over 625 meters of elevation gain, providing a demanding ride through the landscape.
For those interested in waterfalls, some routes may pass near natural features like Birchen Clough Waterfall. It's a notable natural monument in the area that can be incorporated into or viewed from certain cycling excursions.


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