View of Bolton Castle – View of Ellerkin Scar loop from Thornton Watlass

Road cycling routes

United Kingdom

England

Yorkshire And The Humber

North Yorkshire

Hambleton

Thornton Watlass

View of Bolton Castle – View of Ellerkin Scar loop from Thornton Watlass

Moderate

5.0

(2)

riders

View of Bolton Castle – View of Ellerkin Scar loop from Thornton Watlass

03:52

78.1km

860m

Road cycling

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: September 24, 2026

Tips

Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route

After 15.9 km for 65 m

After 16.0 km for 65 m

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

11.5 km

Spennithorne Wood

Forest

15.6 km

Chambers Coffee House

Highlight • Cafe

Good cafe with lots of outside space and nice food

Tip by

16.0 km

View of the Yorkshire Dales

Highlight • Viewpoint

No bikes allowed so you'll have to walk through the gate, only 20yds or so.

Tip by

24.4 km

Pasture Wood

Forest

29.0 km

View of Bolton Castle

Highlight • Viewpoint

Whether you go up to the castle or hook a left further along in Redmire, you will need your granny gear!

Tip by

37.8 km

Ellerkin Scar is a limestone rock formation that is popular with walkers and climbers. From the top you can enjoy great views over Wensleydale.

It is am impressive sight looking north from the road over Newbiggin Pasture.

Tip by

39.3 km

Oxnop Scar Climb (25% Gradient)

Highlight • Viewpoint

After the first 200m, you get a respite & a decision to make. Carry straight on up Moor Road to Oxnop Scar & Muker. This is a tough climb.

Tip by

41.3 km

Thornton Rust Scenic Route

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

So much better than the the A684. No traffic, great views & sheep. & cows too.

Tip by

47.6 km

View of Penhill, Waldendale and Bishopdale

Highlight • Natural

Pause for a while atop Tomgill Bank to appreciate the view to the South.

Tip by

59.5 km

Thowker Corner SSSI

Nature Reserve

65.7 km

Middleham Village Square & Racehorse Parade

Highlight • Historical Site

The racehorses train every morning on the gallops above Middleham/Coverham. They return to the stables from around 10:45. We all know that horses don't understand humans on bikes. If you …

Tip by

78.1 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types