This is probably one of the most picturesque rides in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, taking in some superb climbs along its short distance. Starting from the market town of Masham, it takes you on a tour with lots of history, passing abbey’s and a castle along the way, before returning to Masham for cake 😉
It takes you to East Witton, a beautiful Dales village, before climbing the hidden roads of Coverdale, to tiny villages with epic views across the National Park.
Route Information
Stats 48 km 3736 metres
OS Map: 
Refreshments & Where to Stay
Plenty of choice at Masham. Our favourite is the Johnny Baghdad’s Cafe in the corner of the market square, by the church.
Character
It’s a short ride, but filled with great climbs and descending, taking in quiet lanes that twist and turn.
Route
- Head out of Masham on the road towards Leyburn, the A6018.
- At East Witton, turn off left and ride up alongside the village green, taking the narrow lane that climbs to open countryside, before descending to the medieval bridge near to Coverham Abbey. Do not cross the bridge, but instead, climb upwards to West Scrafton.
- At West Scrafton, descend and cross the river on the narrow and bravelly tarmac road – take care. Climb to the road T junction with the Coverdale Road, turning right and climbing to the village of Carlton.
- From Carlton,ride to Melmerby, before turning off, signed to ‘West Witton’ and climbing steeply to Pen Hill. The summit is reached soon after crossing the cattle grid.
- Once you’ve reached the summit, descent for 300 metres and then turn right, following the road as it runs alongside the horse training gallops (Common Lane).
- At the next junction,turn right and cycle for 400 metres until a narrow road on the left is seen – take this and descend with care to the main Coverdale Road once more, heading left towards Middleham.
- This road descends at speed into historic Middleham,but take care due to race horses training in the area. They use this road to get access to the gallops. Pass through Middleham and head back to Masham, once more riding past Jervaulx Abbey.
- Time for cake at the cafe in the corner of the square, by the church.
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