The best cycling routes around Gristhorpe
4.4
(102)
1,914
riders
92
rides
Touring cycling around Gristhorpe offers access to coastal scenery and varied inland terrain in North Yorkshire. The region is characterized by dramatic coastlines, including Gristhorpe Bay and nearby Cayton Bay, featuring cliffs and geological formations. Its location provides a base for exploring established cycling networks, such as the Moor to Sea Cycle Network and the Cinder Track, which traverse quiet roads, woodland tracks, and bridleways. Beyond the immediate coast, the broader area includes moorland, offering diverse cycling experiences.
Best touring…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
5.0
(1)
54
riders
36.6km
02:26
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
30
riders
48.8km
02:57
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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23
riders
45.4km
02:55
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
10
riders
32.9km
02:07
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
105km
06:26
780m
780m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great view from the top of Flixton Hill across the valley and Wolds. Be sure to check your brakes before starting the descent as it is a very steep hill. If you are coming up the hill then good luck!
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It's really cool that you go past the old lighthouse en route to the new one!
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Lots of parking, very quiet in winter, and cracking routes along the south and north of Flamborough Head. Take the north route past North Landing and Thornwick Bay, much more scenic than the southerly route.
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The old lighthouse, Flamborough, although never used, is in good condition and represents a unique survival of a 17th century monument lighthouse in England in an unaltered state. There is good historical data on its conception and construction, giving insights into the maritime economy of the period. The lighthouse was completed in 1674 by Sir John Clayton and George Blake and was made with brilliant white chalk. The duo were granted patents from Charles II to build 3 other lighthouses along the East coast including one on the Farne Islands, however, there is no evidence on the Farnes to suggest that a lighthouse was built at this time. A beacon may have been placed on Prior Castell's Tower in lieu of an actual lighthouse. it is believed that a fire may have burned in a metal basket hung from the top of the building, though there is no evidence that there was ever a fire lit. It worked as a daymark too and can be seen all along the coastline at Flamborough Head and by ships passing on the North Sea. Ships that passed in the 17th century were required to pay a tax to the architects of the lighthouse to pay for the light, however the tax was voluntary so not surprisingly many mariners refused to pay and this led to John Clayton becoming bankrupt and the end of the lighthouse. The lighthouse was given another life in the 1840s and was used by local man George Mainprize to transmit semaphore messages to passing vessels and possibly to the fort at nearby Bridlington. Now it is a grade II listed building and it opens to the public on various days during the summer months. There is usually no access inside the tower, and there is a friendly warning about flying golf balls if you dare to trespass on the Flamborough Head Golf Course.
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Freewheel all the way down here. Watch out for road erosion in patches.
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A great stop whatever your mode of transport. A cafe at the lighthouse which offers hot and cold food and drink. Ice creams also are in high demand here so you'll not go without a classic seaside ice cream. There's public toilets for anyone needing a convenience break. Beautiful views over the cliffs and over the bay. Popular with kayaks and paddleboards, along with seals & birds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Gristhorpe?
There are over 90 touring cycling routes available around Gristhorpe, offering a diverse range of experiences from coastal paths to inland trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, with a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options.
What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling routes in Gristhorpe?
The touring cycling routes around Gristhorpe offer a range of difficulties. You'll find 17 easy routes, 48 moderate routes, and 27 more challenging options, ensuring there's something for every cyclist, from beginners to experienced riders.
What kind of scenery can I expect on touring cycling routes near Gristhorpe?
Touring cycling around Gristhorpe offers stunning coastal scenery, including dramatic cliffs, rocky foreshores, and sandy beaches like Cayton Bay. Inland, you can expect varied terrain, including access to moorland vistas and green hills, providing a diverse backdrop for your rides.
Are there any specific natural landmarks or viewpoints to look out for along the routes?
Yes, the area around Gristhorpe is rich in natural landmarks and viewpoints. You can enjoy elevated vistas from places like Carr Naze Viewpoint, Seamer Beacon Hill, and the View of the Coastal Cliff. The Gristhorpe Cliff Trig Point also offers memorable views.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Gristhorpe?
Many touring cycling routes around Gristhorpe are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the moderate View of Cayton Bay – View of Cayton Bay loop from Filey, which covers 33.6 km and offers beautiful coastal views.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Gristhorpe?
The touring cycling routes in Gristhorpe are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1900 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic coastal paths and diverse landscapes.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes accessible from Gristhorpe?
Yes, Gristhorpe serves as a gateway to established regional cycling networks. The Moor to Sea Cycle Network, spanning approximately 150 miles, is accessible, offering extensive routes on quiet roads, woodland tracks, and bridleways. A significant part of this network is the Cinder Track, a traffic-free route from Whitby to Scarborough.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling options near Gristhorpe?
While specific family-friendly routes are not detailed, the region's diverse network includes easier paths that could be suitable for families. The Cinder Track, part of the Moor to Sea Cycle Network, is a traffic-free route that might offer suitable sections, though some parts can be uneven. For specific recommendations, look for routes marked as 'easy' in the komoot guide.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in the Gristhorpe area?
The best time of year for touring cycling in the Yorkshire Coast area, including Gristhorpe, is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This allows for more comfortable riding and better enjoyment of the coastal and inland scenery.
Are there opportunities for gravel riding around Gristhorpe?
Yes, for those who prefer gravel cycling, the area around Gristhorpe offers several routes. These often utilize a mix of paved surfaces, woodland tracks, and bridleways, providing varied terrain for gravel bikes. Loops from nearby Scarborough, such as those utilizing sections of the Cinder Track, are popular choices.
Are there any routes that feature lighthouses or other coastal structures?
Absolutely. The moderate Flamborough Lighthouse – Flamborough Old Lighthouse loop from Filey is a 46.9 km path that features dramatic coastal scenery and offers views towards the iconic Flamborough Lighthouse, making for a memorable ride.
What are some other attractions or places to see near the touring cycling routes?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can find other attractions near the routes. These include beautiful beaches like Filey Bay Beach, North Bay Beach, and Hunmanby Sands Beach. You might also encounter monuments such as the Yorkshire Wolds Way End Monument.
Most popular attractions around Gristhorpe
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