This route is also used for the Yorkshire Coast Dirt Dash, packing everything unique about the Yorkshire Coast into a long weekend. Enjoy the tranquillity of the North York Moors, the striking coastline and beautiful villages and towns while you cycle on gravel tracks, cycle paths, quiet lanes and roads through the stunning countryside of England’s east coast.
The Route YC Adventure Weekender is designed for gravel bikes but is equally fun on mountain bikes. With no gates to left bikes, it is suited for heavier e-bikes and trailers, although some sections of the Cinder Track will only be suited for adventurous riders.
The recommended start point of your adventure is at Whitby railway station. However, there are railway stations in Ruswarp, Egton Bridge, Seamer, Filey and Scarborough, which are also good starting points. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway also services Levisham station on the route.
The route follows Sustrans Route 1 from the railway station and climbs uphill on a road. Shortly after crossing the A171, the route joins the Cinder Track for a short section. The Cinder Track is a picturesque coastal route from Scarborough to Whitby on the route of the old railway line, which closed in 1965. After crossing the Larpool Viaduct, leave the Cinder Track and descend on Sustrans Route 165 (Eurovelo 12) into the Esk Valley.
The Esk Valley is a haven for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and history buffs alike, with the meandering River Esk running through the valley’s heart. You follow the River past Ruswar on a relatively flat road. In Sleights, the first big climb awaits Aislaby, first on the road and shortly afterwards on a nice gravel path.
Adventure Weekender (routeyc.co.uk)
Route type: Long Distance Circular