Time to get your cycle on!
There are a multitude of benefits to cycling, whether that’s to get more exercise, reduce stress, save money on transportation, or have a positive effect on the environment.
From cycling the solar system, to seeing some of the city’s fantastic green spaces, to taking in some iconic York locations – there are so many great places to cycle in York.
Take a look at our guide below to nine scenic cycle routes to try in York.
Nine scenic cycle routes to try in York
Solar System Way
Cycle the solar system in York! A scale model of the solar system spread along the old East Coast mainline railway. Along it you can find scale models of all the planets in our solar system as well as models of the Cassini and Voyager spacecraft. There is an abundance of wildlife to spot along the way, as well as several pubs and Brunswick Organic Nursery for a spot of food or drink.
- 15.5 miles
- 1 hour 30mins
- Start: Sim Balk Lane, near York College
- Full details
Millennium Bridge to Naburn return
If you don’t fancy cycling the whole solar system, try this more leisurely route! A ride from the Millennium Bridge to the old swing bridge at Naburn and back via the Sun and the Planets sculptures. Reward yourself with a a café/picnic stop at Naburn Old Station.
- 8 miles
- 1 hour 20mins
- Start: Millennium Bridge
- Full details
Millennium Bridge to Heslington Common return
A circular ride from the Millennium Bridge to Heslington Common via the golf course and University grounds. You’ll pass one of York’s historic strays but less well-known Walmgate Stray, and the allotments behind York Cemetery.
- 6.5 miles
- 1 hour 15mins
- Start: Millennium Bridge
- Full details
Clifton Bridge to Skelton return
A riverside ride from Clifton Bridge to Skelton Nursery and back via Clifton Ings and Rawcliffe Meadows. For a slightly longer ride follow Route 65 signs along quiet lanes nearly to Shipton.
- 7 miles
- 1 hour 20mins
- Start: Clifton Ings
- Full details
Millennium Bridge to Askham Bog return
A ride from the Millennium Bridge to Askham Bog Nature Reserve and back. Askham Bog is rich in plants, insects and birds. Why not take a walk around the boardwalk when you’re there?
- 6 miles
- 1 hour
- Start: Millennium Bridge
- Full details
Dunnington to Stamford Bridge return
A ride from Dunnington to Stamford Bridge Viaduct on Route 66. This ride is normally done as part of a longer ride on Route 66, part of the National Cycle Network (NCN) but it makes a perfect ride for children.
- 9 miles
- 1 hour 30mins
- Start: The entrance to Hagg Wood
- Full details
Riverside Bridges to York circular
A ride around the Riverside and Bridges of York with coffee in Rowntree Park. This ride includes some of York’s most iconic bridges like Scarborough Bridge, Lendal Bridge, Skeldergate Bridge, Blue Bridge, and Millennium Bridge.
- 5 miles
- 1 hour
- Start: Bottom of Marygate
- Full details
Foss Islands Cycle Track to Murton Farming Museum return
A ride to the Farming Museum along the Foss Islands Cycle Track and Bad Bargain Lane. Don’t forget to pay a visit to Viking village and Roman fort Murton Park and the Derwent Valley Light Railway.
- 7 miles
- 1 hour 10mins
- Start: Beginning of Foss Islands Cycle Track
- Full details
Millennium Bridge to Hob Moor and Acomb Wood return
A ride from the Millennium Bridge exploring Hob Moor and Acomb Wood. Enjoy a well deserved coffee at West Bank Park!
- 7 miles
- 1 hour
- Start: Millennium Bridge
- Full details