Pateley Bridge to Grassington

Pateley Bridge to Grassington

Route Information

Stats: 24 miles and  2750 feet of ascent

OS Map:

Refreshments

All you need at Pateley Bridge, including the best pie shops in Yorkshire. Halfway at Grassington there are also ample places to catch a brew and some cake. Toft Gate Barn Farm Cafe at the top of Greenhow is superb if you ride to Pateley to begin the trip.

Character

If you ride from Pateley, with no warm-up the rider is met by Greenhow Hill and its 18% gradient. It eases after 4km and you roll across the top of Nidderdale to Wharfdale, descending the twisting lanes to Appletreewick. Rolling lanes lead to Grassington before some more climbing back to Greenhow and a great descent to Pateley Bridge. Take care though is this hill can be dangerous if inexperienced.

Warning – Greenhow Hill has been the scene of several serious and some fatal accidents involving cyclists. It is extremely steep and twisting and should be treated with respect and caution on the descent.

Pedalnorth.com cannot be held responsible for cyclists that do need heed this warning. We always recommend cyclists wear helmets. If unsure and overly wary, there is no shame in using common sense and getting off on the steeper sections.

---

Route

1. Gird the loins and tackle Greenhow Hill (B6265) for 4km until it eases and expansive views are gained across to Wharfdale.

2. Drop down to Stump Cross Cross Caverns where the road bends sharply down right and left before continuing down the long straight.

3. Turn left towards Appletreewick opposite Fancarl House (stone farm on the right). This narrow road is initially straight, but then twists left and right, dropping steeply to Appletreewick.
Descend with caution and within your abilities.

4. Pass through Appletreewick and its two pubs, with the odd climb on route to Burnsall and the River Wharfe. Cross over the magnificent bridge to the junction, turning right signed ‘Grassington’. This road (B6160) continues a steady climb and enters more open country with excellent cycling through Wharfdale. A ‘T’ junction is eventually reached with the Grassington Road (opp the High School grounds). Turn right and cycle into Grassington – time for tea.

5. Once refreshed take the B6265 for Pateley Bridge. This brings in some short steep climbs before the long climb after Hebden, passing Grimwith Reservoir. Grit the teeth and pound away at the pedals on this long drag.

6. Passing through Greenhow village a bench is seen on the left opposite Coldstones Quarry. This marks the start of the long and epic descent back to Pateley Bridge. Here speed is NOT your friend. It can be your worst enemy if handled badly, so heed our warning and get home safely.