Westerdale, Danby High & Glaisdale Moors loop from Castleton — North York Moors National Park

Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure through the North York Moors National Park with the Westerdale, Danby High & Glaisdale Moors loop. This 26.4-mile (42.5 km) route features varied terrain, including sweeping heather moorland and lush valleys, with significant elevation gain of 2443 feet (744 metres). You can expect steep ascents and descents on minor country roads, offering magnificent views across open moorland and dales, especially when the heather blooms in late summer. The ride typically takes around 2 hours and 19 minutes to complete, requiring good fitness for its challenges. You will experience the dramatic contrast between heather-clad moors and wide, flat, farmed valley bottoms, passing through picturesque villages. The route also traces the area where the River Esk originates in Westerdale.

For your convenience, you can easily access this popular route from The Moors Centre at Danby. This location provides visitor parking, dedicated cycle parking, a café, and a shop, making it an excellent starting point for your ride. Planning your visit for late summer will allow you to witness the dramatic beauty of the moorland when the heather is in full bloom, enhancing the already stunning scenery.

This loop is recognized as one of the most popular road cycling routes around Danby, celebrated for its blend of challenging climbs and rewarding vistas. It showcases the unique landscape of the North York Moors, where traditional dry stone walls crisscross the land and river valleys carve through the dramatic moorland. The route offers a true immersion into the region's natural beauty and is a highlight for any road cyclist exploring the area.