Grinton to Osmotherley

This is a bit of a mundane day. The tracks start and finish with interest, but there’s a section in the middle along lanes which goes on for some time on tarmac. This will however speed you along to the North Yorkshire Moors and Osmotherley. We’ve looked at this link for some time and didn’t want to take you off road just for the sake of it. Some of the trails above Northallerton can be really muddy and overgrown after poor weather, as they’re little used. If it is damp, then stick to the quieter lanes until you cross the A19 road and reach the Moors. If the weather has been damp and there’s a likelihood of muddy tracks across the Vale of York, then simply stay on the quiet lanes and avoid the listed bridleways across the Vale. Overall, it’s your choice, and we leave the option open to you.

Grinton is a given on this C2C, as is Osmotherley, for the fantastic riding that they provide. So today is the best link we could find. It does have some interesting little sections of off-road, that help to provide the link, but that will also give you a taster for a return trip to do them as a loop.

Distance: 42 miles

Ascent: 2756 ft

OS Map: Character

The mileage is high, but it is along flat and quiet lanes in the main, so you’ll find it quite relaxing and easy. You’ll have built up some stamina and fitness by now, and this will be a good day to have a bit of a break in the saddle before the Moors. The climbing on this day is limited to the off road sections wherever we can make it, giving as much interest as possible. Even Wainwright had problems linking this section.

The final ride from Scarth Nick does provide some interest, and if you’ve got time, you can explore some more before heading down into Osmotherley.