🚴 Cycle Routes Around Settle | Yorkshire Dales Cycling
Settle is one of the best bases for cycling in the Yorkshire Dales, with a fantastic mix of road cycling routes, gravel riding, and off-road trails. Whether you’re riding a road bike, gravel bike, or electric bike, there are routes here for all abilities—from gentle scenic loops to more challenging climbs.
🌄 Popular Route: Sustrans Slow Tour of Yorkshire
One of our most popular routes—especially for gravel bikes and electric bikes—follows part of the Sustrans Slow Tour of Yorkshire.
This scenic ride takes you along quiet country lanes through the beautiful villages of Austwick and Clapham, with the option to visit the stunning Stainforth Force along the way.
For a more challenging variation, turn right in Austwick and climb over Thwaite Lane before descending through the tunnels into Clapham—an exciting addition for more experienced riders.
👉 Download the route PDF here:
https://www.walkwheelcycletrust.org.uk/media/5110/stoy_6.pdf
⛰️ Ride to Malham
If you’re looking for a classic Yorkshire Dales ride, heading to Malham is a must. It’s around a 16-mile round trip from Settle, but be prepared—the climb out of Settle is one of the steepest in the area!
Along the way, you can explore:
- Scaleber Force
- Kirkby Malham
- Janet's Foss
- Malham Cove
- Malham Tarn
⚠️ Important: Some locations are not accessible by bike. For example, the path between Malham and Malham Cove is a footpath only, so you’ll need to bring a lock or be prepared to walk short sections.
🚴 Local Cycle Routes from Settle
If you’re planning a half-day or full-day ride, here are some of the best cycling routes around Settle:
A gentle but spectacular loop through some of the most iconic villages in the southern Dales. Enjoy a steady climb onto Swarth Moor with views of Pen-y-ghent, followed by a relaxing descent through Austwick and Clapham before returning via quiet, rolling lanes.
Part of the Pennine Bridleway, this route offers a mix of gravel tracks, grassland, and rocky limestone sections. It’s relatively short but includes a tough climb out of Settle—well worth the effort for the views.
An extended version of the Settle Loop for more adventurous riders. This route includes sections like Mastiles Lane and passes near Gordale Scar, followed by a challenging climb up Stockdale Lane and a long descent back to Settle.
A shorter, scenic ride along the western edge of the Yorkshire Dales with views towards Lancashire and the Forest of Bowland. Ride through Austwick to Clapham, where you can stop at cafés or return by train.
Another version of the Settle Loop featured on the National Trails website. This 10-mile circular route offers stunning views and can also be joined from nearby villages like Malham and Stainforth.
A relaxed, family-friendly route around Malham Tarn. This circular ride follows gravel and grassy tracks across Malham Moor. The start point is around 10km from Settle by road but can be incorporated into longer rides.
Located around 7 miles from Settle, Gisburn Forest offers excellent purpose-built trails for all abilities—from beginners to experienced riders tackling technical features and rock gardens.
🌍 Explore Further
For more cycling inspiration across the region, visit:
👉 https://www.cyclethedales.org.uk
Please note: 3 Peaks Cycles is not responsible for the accuracy or content of external websites.
🚴 Long-Distance Cycle Routes Through Settle
3 Peaks Cycles is ideally located on several major UK cycle routes, including:
We stock a wide range of maps and guides in-store, and our team is always happy to offer local route advice and recommendations.
📍 Start Your Ride in Settle
Whether you’re planning a leisurely ride or a full-day adventure, Settle is the perfect starting point for exploring the Yorkshire Dales by bike.
👉 Visit us at 3 Peaks Cycles for bike hire, gear, and expert local knowledge.