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Trip Itinerary
Experience six spectacular days of riding through England’s literary landscapes as you pedal across Yorkshire.
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Where to Arrive
Airport:
Manchester International Airport (MAN)
Pick-up location:
Lancaster, UK
Pick-up time:
11:00 AM
Where to Depart
Airport:
Manchester International Airport (MAN)
Drop-off location:
York, UK
Drop-off time:
12:00 PM
Additional Arrival Information
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend you fly into Manchester International Airport (MAN) then take a train to Lancaster. Trains depart regularly and take just over an hour. You can find more information about the train on www.northernrailway.co.uk. Another option is to fly to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) which is also convenient.
Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Lancaster Railway Station (Meeting House Lane, Lancaster) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. You’ll then shuttle approximately 30 minutes to Arnside on Morecambe Bay where the bikes are ready and waiting for you. Please have your first day’s riding gear handy and separate from your other luggage to facilitate the bike fitting and ride.
If you will be late for the pick-up or will miss it altogether, please inform your guides. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, The Black Swan (+44 15396 23204), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. A taxi to the first night’s hotel will cost approximately $150.
Additional Departure Information
You will say farewell to your guides at 12:00 PM at York Railway Station in York, UK. The shuttle from the hotel departs at 11:00 AM and transfers to the train station in the historic cathedral city of York, arriving by noon. If you continue your journey, you can take a train to Manchester (one and a half hours), London (two hours) or Edinburgh (two and a half hours). Please do not book train tickets for departures prior to 12:30 PM.
Ride through Lake District National Park into the adjacent Yorkshire Dales National Park
Overview
Welcome to England! Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Lancaster Railway Station at 11:00 AM. We will transfer 30 minutes to Arnside on the shores of Morecambe Bay, the largest expanse of intertidal sands in the United Kingdom. After a light lunch and a brief introduction to your new travel companions and the rules of the road, you'll be fitted to your Trek bike for the week. We wind along the side of the estuary taking in the sights of the southern tip of... Welcome to England! Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Lancaster Railway Station at 11:00 AM. We will transfer 30 minutes to Arnside on the shores of Morecambe Bay, the largest expanse of intertidal sands in the United Kingdom. After a light lunch and a brief introduction to your new travel companions and the rules of the road, you'll be fitted to your Trek bike for the week. We wind along the side of the estuary taking in the sights of the southern tip of The Lake District, before turning in-land and into the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Quiet undulating roads take us to the historic market town of Kirkby Lonsdale, and then a beautiful gradual ascent along Barbondale before descending to Dent Village Heritage Centre to explore the hidden histories of Dent and the surrounding area. Our ride continues to Sedbergh and a gradual ascent following the river Rawthey separating the Howgill fells from the rest of the Yorkshire dales. The ride finishes with a descent to the beautiful village of Ravenstonedale and our lodging in one of our favorite country inns. Read More
Hotel
The Black Swan
Meals included
Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Shores of Morecambe Bay
Behold the beauty of Morecambe Bay, the largest expanse of intertidal mudflats and sand in the United Kingdom.
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Shores of the Lake District to Yorkshire Dales - Approximately 40 mi | 64 km and 2,834 ft | 864 m
Ride Option 2
SHORT OPTION:
Arnside to Dent - Approximately 24 mi | 39 km and 1,949 ft | 594 m
Roll along the Birkdale Common
Overview
On this classic day of riding, we traverse the northern reaches of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, riding through the stunning Wensleydale Valley. After a few miles to warm up the legs, take on a 1,000 foot (300 meter) climb out of the valley up onto Birkdale Common. It's a tough start to the day but quickly gets you up onto the wild, heather-clad moors, where you see more sheep than cars! Your effort is rewarded as the next 20 miles are mainly downhill. At the v... On this classic day of riding, we traverse the northern reaches of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, riding through the stunning Wensleydale Valley. After a few miles to warm up the legs, take on a 1,000 foot (300 meter) climb out of the valley up onto Birkdale Common. It's a tough start to the day but quickly gets you up onto the wild, heather-clad moors, where you see more sheep than cars! Your effort is rewarded as the next 20 miles are mainly downhill. At the village of Keld, we reach the River Swale. Our next climb is one of the giants of Yorkshire, Buttertubs, as features on Stage 1 of the 2014 Tour de France. This two-and-a-half mile (four kilometer) climb is full of spectacular scenery and will give you a sense of achievement. A long, steady descent takes us to our lunch stop in Askrigg, also known as "Darrowby" in TV Veteran James Heriot of "All Creatures Great & Small." From here, we ride southeast, through farmlands, as we make our way to the next hotel, located in the small market town of Masham. Read More
Hotel
The White Bear Hotel
Meals included
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Wensleydale Valley
Wensleydale Valley is filled with its own breed of hardy sheep as well as locally-made cheeses.
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Ravenstonedale to Masham - Approximately 53 mi | 85 km and 4,111 ft | 1,253 m
Ride Option 2
SHORT OPTION:
Ravenstonedale to Reeth - Approximately 28 mi | 45 km and 2,935 ft | 895 m
Tour the Yorkshire Dales National Park
Overview
After enjoying a hearty English breakfast, you’ll enjoy more superb terrain as you continue riding through the Yorkshire Dales National Park and its many historic villages. It’s a tale of three dales as we ride through the stunning valleys (or dales) of Coverdale, Wharfedale, and Nidderdale on a memorable loop through the National Park. There are some longer climbs today with a few testing ramps but each brings its own reward, not the least of which is the fast,... After enjoying a hearty English breakfast, you’ll enjoy more superb terrain as you continue riding through the Yorkshire Dales National Park and its many historic villages. It’s a tale of three dales as we ride through the stunning valleys (or dales) of Coverdale, Wharfedale, and Nidderdale on a memorable loop through the National Park. There are some longer climbs today with a few testing ramps but each brings its own reward, not the least of which is the fast, fun descent into the next dale! We first ride through Coverdale, a valley which is notable for the ‘shake holes’ which dot the land on both sides. These are conical pits dissolved into limestone over a long time by the action of the rain and it creates a very unique geological landscape. Enjoy sweeping views as you roll from valley to valley, with a steep descent into Wharfedale, a supremely scenic spot with rocky hillsides catching your eye at either side. You'll pass the Gouthwaite Reservoir, a particularly good location for bird-watching, before your final climb of the day onto High Ash Head Moor and a last few fast miles to end the day's magnificent ride. Back at Masham, we'll visit one of our favorite local breweries, the Black Sheep Brewery Bar, for a freshly poured pint and then you'll head out for a free evening in the village. Read More
Hotel
The White Bear Hotel
Meals included
Breakfast | Lunch
Highlight of the Day
Black Sheep micro-brewery
The owner, a fifth generation brewer, built his own brewery in Masham. In 2014, the Tour de France passed the brewery gates to huge crowds.
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
The Nidderdale Loop - Approximately 57 mi | 91 km and 5,200 ft | 1,584 m
Ride Option 2
SHORT OPTION:
Masham to Grassington - Approximately 30 mi | 48 km and 2,700 ft | 823 m
Activities
Activity 1
TODAY'S ACTIVITY:
Brewery tour
Head East to North Yorks Moors National Park and into James Herriot country
Overview
Today offers an easier day of riding as we head east, positioning ourselves for our ride to the coast the following day. You'll leave Masham today following a relaxed morning and a delicious breakfast. You'll cross the flatlands to reach the traditional market town of Thirsk, made famous for being the home of the veterinary surgeon and author, James Herriot, who created entertaining stories recounting his nearly 50 years of practicing veterinarian medicine for the s... Today offers an easier day of riding as we head east, positioning ourselves for our ride to the coast the following day. You'll leave Masham today following a relaxed morning and a delicious breakfast. You'll cross the flatlands to reach the traditional market town of Thirsk, made famous for being the home of the veterinary surgeon and author, James Herriot, who created entertaining stories recounting his nearly 50 years of practicing veterinarian medicine for the surrounding villages. These stories have since been transformed into a highly popular British television series, "All Creatures Great and Small." With Thirsk's medieval cobbled market square, original frontage shops, and historic coaching inns, you’ll appreciate having some free time to explore and have lunch on your own in town. Leaving town, you'll ride into North York Moors National Park. After passing through the villages Kilburn and Coxwold, a climb will take you toward Byland Abbey. Described in 12th century as one of the shining lights of northern monasticism, the abbey rose to to be one of the largest Cistercian order in Britain. The remains of the buildings, particularly the great church with its magnificent west front, are important in the development of northern monastic architecture in the second half of the 12th century. Afterwards, you'll continue the short distance to your hotel in the charming town of Helmsley, where you'll finish your ride beneath the flanks Castle where we will convene for a dinner of local specialities. Also, be sure to try some of the delicious local county cheeses that Yorkshire has become known for. Read More
Hotel
Feathers Hotel
Meals included
Breakfast | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Byland Abbey
Discover why Byland Abbey has been considered both architecturally and historically significant since the 12th century.
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Masham to Helmsley - Approximately 41 mi | 66 km and 1,773 ft | 540 m
Ride Option 2
SHORT OPTION:
Masham to Boltby - Approximately 23 mi | 37 km and 594 ft | 181 m
Ride Option 3
AVID OPTION:
Hawnby to Laskill Loop - Approximately 47 mi | 76 km and 2,341 ft | 714 m
Bike across the Yorkshire Moors to the North Sea Coast
Overview
On your last full day of riding, you'll start with a steady climb up onto the high moors and into the heart of the North York Moors National Park. We pass the 16th century Lion Inn which is located on the highest point of the moors at 1,325 feet (400 meters) above sea level, although perhaps a little early to enjoy a pint. Instead, we descend the moorland roads past the millennium stone eventually arriving at our lunch stop, a quirky cafe situated deep in Great Fryu... On your last full day of riding, you'll start with a steady climb up onto the high moors and into the heart of the North York Moors National Park. We pass the 16th century Lion Inn which is located on the highest point of the moors at 1,325 feet (400 meters) above sea level, although perhaps a little early to enjoy a pint. Instead, we descend the moorland roads past the millennium stone eventually arriving at our lunch stop, a quirky cafe situated deep in Great Fryup Dale. Peaceful and undulating lanes are ahead of us, bound for the east coast, passing Ugglebarnby, we take on a final climb and you may taste the salty sea air as you crest the final rise! The sight of the North Sea on the horizon means that our journey is almost over and when we arrive at the picturesque fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay, we know we’ve made it! Dipping our wheels into the lapping waves makes it official, so then it’s time to go celebrate the achievement! The twisty cobbled alleyways of this village used to be the stomping grounds of smugglers. Now they hide many great pubs—perfect for a celebratory drink! Afterwards, we transfer back to the hotel for our final night dinner. Read More
Hotel
Feathers Hotel
Meals included
Breakfast | Social Hour | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Robin Hood's Bay
Roll into Robin Hood's Bay on the eastern shore, exploring the quaint little fishing village and maybe trying their famous fish and chips.
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Helmsley to Robin Hood’s Bay - Approximately 46 mi | 74 km and 3,412 ft | 1,140 m
Ride Option 2
AVID OPTION:
Westerdale Moor Loop - Approximately 51 mi | 82 km and 4,440 ft | 1,354 m
Circuit of the River Rye
Overview
After a relaxed breakfast, there is time for a final short ride, taking in a circuit of the River Rye as it winds its way through the farmlands which surround the town. Alternatively, spend some time in Helmsley, perhaps visiting the medieval castle, which dates back to the 12th century. Or, simply rise at your own pace and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before taking the one-hour transfer to the train station in the historic cathedral city of York. You'll say farewell... After a relaxed breakfast, there is time for a final short ride, taking in a circuit of the River Rye as it winds its way through the farmlands which surround the town. Alternatively, spend some time in Helmsley, perhaps visiting the medieval castle, which dates back to the 12th century. Or, simply rise at your own pace and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before taking the one-hour transfer to the train station in the historic cathedral city of York. You'll say farewell to your guides at 12:00 PM in York. Please do not schedule a train to your next destination before 1:00 PM on the last day to allow plenty of time for any unforeseen delays. Read More
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Ride Options
Ride Option 1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Rydale Circuit from Helmsley - Approximately 16 mi | 25 km and 725 ft | 221 m
Ride Option 2
SHORT OPTION:
Rydale Circuit Shortened - Approximately 11 mi | 18 km and 516 ft | 157 m
If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.
Don’t see exactly what you are looking for or looking for a custom date?
Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735
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Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).
Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).
Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).
Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).
Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).
Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).
Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.
Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.
Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.
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Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself