The best cycling routes around Kirkby Malham

There are over 150 touring cycling routes in the Kirkby Malham area, offering a wide variety of options for exploring the Yorkshire Dales National Park. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.

The routes around Kirkby Malham offer a mix of challenges. You'll find approximately 16 easy routes, 60 moderate routes, and 81 difficult routes. This variety ensures options for different fitness levels and preferences, from gentle valley rides to more demanding climbs through the Dales.

Yes, there are several easier touring cycling routes in Kirkby Malham. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and follow quieter country roads, making them ideal for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed ride. Look for routes described as 'easy' on komoot.

For more challenging rides, consider routes that venture into the higher fells and limestone uplands. An example is the Settle Town Centre – Malham Tarn loop from Kirkby Malham, which features significant elevation gain over its 21.2 miles (34.2 km). Another demanding option is the Kettlewell Village – Mastiles Lane loop from Malham, known for its substantial climbs.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Kirkby Malham are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Yorkshire Dales National Park – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Malham and the Settle Town Centre – 3 Peaks Café & Bike Shop loop from Kirkby Malham.

Touring cycling around Kirkby Malham offers diverse scenery, including classic Yorkshire Dales landscapes with rolling hills, dramatic limestone formations, open pastures, and quiet country lanes. You'll often find routes following valley floors, offering picturesque views of the surrounding fells and traditional Dales villages.

Absolutely! The area is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past or near iconic landmarks such as Malham Cove, the impressive Gordale Scar Waterfall, and the enchanting Janet's Foss. Many routes offer opportunities to explore these geological wonders and waterfalls.

Yes, the Yorkshire Dales are well-equipped with welcoming cafes and traditional pubs. Many routes pass through villages like Malham, Kirkby Malham, and Settle, where you can find places to refuel. For example, the Town End Farm Shop Café – Yorkshire Dales National Park loop from Kirkby Malham specifically highlights a local cafe.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most favorable weather for touring cycling in Kirkby Malham, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the Dales can be enjoyed year-round, with autumn providing beautiful foliage and winter offering crisp, quiet rides, though conditions can be more challenging.

Public transport options in the Yorkshire Dales can be limited, especially in smaller villages like Kirkby Malham. However, nearby towns such as Settle have train stations on the scenic Settle-Carlisle line, which can be used to access the wider area. Local bus services also operate, though schedules may be infrequent, particularly on weekends and in rural areas. Always check current timetables if planning to use public transport.

Parking is generally available in Kirkby Malham village, often in designated car parks or on-street where permitted. Larger car parks can be found in nearby popular villages like Malham or the town of Settle, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and fees.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 116 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning limestone landscapes, the quiet country lanes, and the sense of immersion in the natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The variety of routes, from gentle to challenging, is also frequently highlighted.