Cycle Routes Around Settle

1. 
   

   
   Settle has a great selection of routes for road cyclists and mountain bikers alike.
   If you're looking for a day or afternoon ride, below are some local routes we've pulled together from various sites. If you want to explore further afield - cyclethedales.org.uk is a great website.
   Please be aware that 3 Peaks Cycles is not responsible for the accuracy or content from any external links.



2. Settle - Clapham Circular (28k on quiet roads)
   

   A gentle, yet spectacular circuit, passing through some of the best-known villages in the southern Dales. A gradual climb onto Swarth Moor, provides excellent views of Pen-y-ghent; before a pleasant descent to Austwick and Clapham, leads the route south of the National Park boundary - as it returns to its starting point via quiet and undulating lanes.



3. The Settle Loop (16k off-road)
   

   The first section of the Pennine Bridleway to be opened in the Yorkshire Dales, the Settle Loop takes you on a variety of tracks; gravel, natural grassland and rocky limestone sections. It also gives great views out over the southern section of the Dales. It may be a short route but it involves a big climb out of Settle so expect to do some hard work.



4. Settle Long Loop (36k off-road)
   

   If you've been around the Settle Loop and want to extend it, here is one option. It adds in a section of Mastiles Lane and a loop to Malham past Gordale Scar, before a testing climb up Stockdale Lane and a long descent to Settle taking in an extra off tarmac section.



5. Sustrans Settle to Clapham (13k on quiet lanes)
   

   This beautiful and spectacular ride runs along the western edge of the Yorkshire Dales with views over towards Lancashire and the Forest of Bowland. From our vibrant market town of Settle, it passes along quiet country lanes through the beautiful village of Austwick to arrive in Clapham, with its cafes and nature trail. From Clapham, you can return to Settle by the same route or jump on a train.



6. National Trails: The Settle Loop (16k off-road)
   

   A link to the same ride as above but on the National Trails website. The Settle Loop is a 10 mile circular route that can be started and finished in Settle or joined from surrounding areas such as Malham and Stainforth. The circular loop offers stunning views of the Yorkshire Dales on foot, by bike or horse.



7. National Trust Malham Tarn Cycle Trail (7.2k off-road & quiet lanes)
   

   Hop on your bike and explore Malham Moor on this family-friendly cycle trail. The circular route follows gravel and grassy tracks through the moors and takes in views of the Yorkshire Dales' own glacial lake, Malham Tarn.
   Please note the start of this route is 10k from our shop by road or could be added on half way round the standard Settle Loop



8. Gisburn Forest Bike Trails (Gisburn is about 7 miles from our shop)
   

   Whether you've just bought your first bike or you're happy shredding through rock gardens, Gisburn Forest offers a fantastic opportunity for natural cycling.

3 Peaks Cycles also sits directly on all the major long-distance cycle routes running through the area: The Way of the Roses, The Pennine Bridleway and the Yorkshire Dales Cycleway.
We have a great selection of maps and guides in our shop and our staff are always on hand to offer advice about routes in the local area.