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Road cycling routes
United Kingdom
England
Yorkshire And The Humber
North Yorkshire
Ryedale

Nunnington

The best traffic-free bike rides around Nunnington

4.6

(54)

2,849

riders

5

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Road cycling around Nunnington offers a diverse landscape within the Howardian Hills National Landscape, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by rolling wooded hills, scenic river valleys, and historic estates, providing a varied backdrop for cycling. Routes often traverse quiet country lanes, extending into the contrasting flat terrain of the Vale of Pickering. This area provides a network of no traffic road cycling routes, featuring both gentle undulations and some short, challenging ascents.

Best no traffic road cycling routes around Nunnington

  • The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Nunnington Hall loop to the Vale of Pickering and the Howardian Hills, a 23.6 miles (38.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 38 minutes to complete. This route offers a blend of varied terrain through the Vale of Pickering and the Howardian Hills.
  • Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Byland Abbey – Byland Abbey Ruins loop from Nunnington, a moderate 43.9 miles (70.7 km) path. This route guides cyclists through scenic countryside, passing historic abbey ruins.
  • Local road cyclists also love the Byland Abbey Ruins – Rievaulx Abbey loop from Nunnington, a 29.7 miles (47.8 km) trail leading through the Howardian Hills and past significant historical sites, often completed in about 2 hours 14 minutes.
  • Road cycling around Nunnington is defined by rolling wooded hills, scenic river valleys, and historic estates. The network offers options for both easy rides and more challenging routes with notable elevation gains.
  • The routes in Nunnington are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 50 reviews. More than 2,800 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Nunnington's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 10, 2026

18

riders

#1.

Nunnington Hall loop to the Vale of Pickering and the Howardian Hills

38.0km

01:38

220m

210m

Embark on an easy road cycling journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Howardian Hills and Vale of Pickering. This 23.6-mile (38.0 km) loop, with a gentle 707 feet (216 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes to complete. You will cycle on quiet, well-paved country roads, passing through charming villages and enjoying panoramic views across the rolling terrain. Look out for the majestic Nunnington Hall, a National Trust property, as you explore parklands and woodlands. While mostly easy, expect some undulating sections, particularly as you return towards Castle Howard. You will also enjoy views north to the North York Moors and across the Vale of Pickering from spots like Caulkleys Bank.

For your convenience, free parking is available at Castle Howard, which often serves as a popular starting point for this route. You can also access the trail from nearby Malton, offering flexibility for your journey. Along the way, you will find several tempting tearoom stops, perfect for a break. Consider visiting Nunnington Hall itself, Hovingham, or the Yorkshire Lavender Farm in Terrington for refreshments. This easy route is suitable for most fitness levels, making it a great choice for a relaxed ride.

This trail offers an excellent introduction to the Howardian Hills National Landscape, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covering 79 square miles of rolling countryside. You will pass by other notable landmarks such as the beautifully green Hovingham Park, featuring the striking Pickering Bridge and Hovingham Hall. Keep an eye out for the unique "City of Troy" turf maze near Dalby, adding a touch of historical intrigue to your ride. The blend of cultural interest, natural beauty, and cycling-friendly infrastructure makes this a particularly enjoyable road cycling experience.

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Easy

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

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Popular around Nunnington

Traffic-free bike rides around Nunnington

Tips from the Community

Stuart Wilcock
May 17, 2026, Byland Abbey Ruins

Byland Abbey is a ruined 12th-century monastery located in the North York Moors National Park in North Yorkshire, England, managed today by English Heritage. Once a powerhouse of the Cistercian order, it stands as one of the finest examples of early Gothic architecture in the country and famously inspired the design of the iconic Rose Window at York Minster.

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I dont know much about this place but I know it makes a great picture opportunity

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Each of the sacred monuments that you repeatedly encounter – despite all the differences in their external design – has a common concern: The cross that rises here not only wants to attract the viewer's gaze, but – and this is primarily – to make him think of God. Not only in theological books, but even in secular literature, God's voice is often represented, and this is even often the case in crime novels. For example, Ellis Peters set the series of novels about the Benedictine 'Brother Cadfael', which is set in 12th-century England, in the surroundings of a monastery. In "The Virgin in the Ice" it says: "And yet life, clinging to faith, the tenacious struggle with fate had to go on, the land had to be cultivated year in, year out. Plough and harrow must not rest, and one had to take care of sowing and harvesting the fruits of the earth as much as here, in the monastery and church, of sowing and harvesting souls." I wish the viewer here in front of the cross a good thought for his soul.

Translated by Google

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Apparently regarded by the Victorians as "ill-planned and untidy", but now quite possibly one the most picturesque Moors villages, Hutton-le-Hole is a very popular starting point for hikes. Fairly sizeable car park just on the eastern side of the village off the road to Lastingham. Lots more info available at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hutton-le-Hole, https://www.yorkshire.com/hutton-le-hole/?srsltid=AfmBOoqlQxZoMrKrxFTMhz3S7ZTijB3NKHNKMKO3WYru-vDGGmjNYk2Q, https://www.northyorkmoors.org.uk/places-to-go/hutton-le-hole-lastingham-appleton-le-moors

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Spudman
February 26, 2025, Byland Abbey Ruins

Open at all daylight hours. No charge.

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Grace Mulligan
November 6, 2024, Byland Abbey

Byland Abbey is a stunning ruin dating back to the 1100s. It was once one of the grandest medieval monasteries but was dissolved by Henry VIII in the 1530s. Today it offers a scenic picnic spot and a glimpse into history. It's free to visit and features a tearoom open from March to November, serving cakes and coffee​

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Low Town Bank Road climbs up from about 296 feet (90 m) in Kilburn, through some steep hairpin bends to 952 feet (290 m) at the Yorkshire Gliding Club. Known locally as White Horse Bank due to the white horse hill figure near the top.

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RichD
September 7, 2024, Young Ralph Cross

Wayside crosses are one of several types of Christian cross erected during the medieval period, mostly from the 9th to 15th centuries AD. In addition to serving the function of reiterating and reinforcing the Christian faith amongst those who passed the cross and of reassuring the traveller, wayside crosses often fulfilled a role as waymarkers, especially in difficult and otherwise unmarked terrain. The crosses might be on regularly used routes linking ordinary settlements or on routes having a more specifically religious function, including those providing access to religious sites for parishioners and funeral processions, or marking long-distance routes frequented on pilgrimages. Over 350 wayside crosses are known nationally, concentrated in south west England throughout Cornwall and on Dartmoor where they form the commonest type of stone cross. A small group also occurs on the North York Moors. The wayside cross and boundary marker known as Young Ralph survive complete even though previously broken and repaired. The cross marks the highest point on the old road from Keldholme in the south of the moors to Castleton in the north. It also marks the boundary of the Wapentake of Pickering Lyth. It has been adopted as the symbol of the North York Moors National Park and has been a listed monument since 1938.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Nunnington?

Komoot features 5 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Nunnington. These routes are carefully selected to offer peaceful rides away from busy roads, allowing you to enjoy the scenic Howardian Hills and surrounding areas.

What is the general terrain and difficulty level of these quiet road cycling routes?

The terrain around Nunnington, particularly within the Howardian Hills National Landscape, is characterized by gently undulating hills. While long, sustained climbs are uncommon, you'll encounter plenty of short, challenging ascents. Our selection includes one easy route, the Nunnington Hall loop to the Vale of Pickering and the Howardian Hills, and four moderate routes, offering a good mix for various fitness levels.

Are there any family-friendly no-traffic road cycling options near Nunnington?

Yes, for families looking for a gentler ride, the Nunnington Hall loop to the Vale of Pickering and the Howardian Hills is classified as easy. This route offers a manageable distance and elevation, making it suitable for a family outing on quiet country roads.

What historical landmarks or natural features can I see along these quiet cycling routes?

Many routes pass by significant historical sites and offer stunning views. You can explore the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey and Byland Abbey Ruins on routes like the Byland Abbey Ruins – Rievaulx Abbey loop from Nunnington. The routes also offer views across the Vale of Pickering to the North York Moors National Park and traverse the picturesque Howardian Hills.

Where can I park my car when starting a no-traffic road cycling route in Nunnington?

Nunnington village itself offers parking options, often near Nunnington Hall or in designated village car parks. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and availability before your ride.

Is public transport available to reach Nunnington for cycling trips?

While Nunnington is a rural village, it can be accessed by public transport, though services might be less frequent than in larger towns. It's recommended to check local bus schedules in advance, especially if you plan to bring your bike, as space may be limited.

Are there any cafes or pubs along the no-traffic road cycling routes for refreshments?

Yes, Nunnington Hall, a popular calling point for cyclists, features a tea-room perfect for refreshments. Many routes also pass through or near other villages in the Howardian Hills where you can find local pubs and cafes to refuel during your ride.

What is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic road cycling around Nunnington?

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for road cycling in North Yorkshire, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though days are shorter. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

Do I need any special permits to cycle in the Howardian Hills National Landscape?

No, you do not need any special permits for road cycling on public roads within the Howardian Hills National Landscape. The area welcomes cyclists to explore its network of quiet lanes and bridleways.

What do other cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Nunnington?

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience around Nunnington, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the quiet country lanes, the stunning views across the Howardian Hills and Vale of Pickering, and the opportunity to visit historical sites like Nunnington Hall and the abbeys along the way.

Can I combine a visit to Castle Howard with a no-traffic road cycling route from Nunnington?

While the Castle Howard & Nunnington Hall Cycle Route is a popular option, it includes sections that can be winding and hilly, and its traffic volume can vary. For strictly no-traffic routes, we recommend sticking to the komoot-curated routes in this guide, which prioritize quieter roads.

Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes available?

Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, the Byland Abbey – Byland Abbey Ruins loop from Nunnington covers over 70 km with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding ride through the scenic landscape on quiet roads.

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