Jay – Astor York

With English cities being more congested than ever, the environment being more and more polluted, and transport rates being at their peak; now is the perfect time to ditch the car keys, those train or bus tickets, and jump on a bicycle. Below are some of my top picks on the best places to take your wheels for a spin in and around York!

Shorter Rides:

York Riverside bridges route

With this fantastic weather, spending as much time by the glorious River Ouse is a no brainer. Starting from the Astor York Hostel, head towards the amazing green pastures of the York racecourse facility, cutting through on Knavesmire road toward the Millennium bridge. To start the river & bridge loop stay on the bank of the River Ouse, heading through the picturesque, tranquil gardens and pastures of Rowntree Park, the hangout for many of the cities ducks and geese, as well as owners and their adorable dogs! Once you have completed Rowntree park cross over the river via Skeldergate bridge, from where you can cycle the other bank of the river, back to Millennium bridge.

Askham Bog Nature reserve

Fancy escaping the city centers and reconnecting with nature? Askham Bog has you sorted! Bursting with an abundance of plants, wildlife, and birds, this ride is a crowd favorite amongst two-wheeled travelers. My preferred route commences from the Millennium bridge (Refer to above route for directions from the hostel). Once you arrive at the Millennium bridge, follow the signs for route 65. This scenic, relatively easy ride will lead you along the river Ouse, behind the racecourse and to the Nature reserve, where you can ride the boardwalks. Be sure to keep an eye out for the wildlife, you may even spot the occasional deer!

Longer Rides

Yorkshire Moors Cycling Routes

A short journey from York you can discover the breath-taking Yorkshire moors, a very popular destination for the avid cyclist. The Moors consists of 1400 miles of untouched wilderness, fresh air, and rolling green pastures. Peppered with a large variety of cycling trails, from beginner to professional, All of which take you deep into the undulating countryside. There is no better time of the year than now to discover this phenomenal part of England.  You can find further information about cycling trails, transport options, and the Moors themselves at https://www.northyorkmoors.org.uk/visiting

York Solar System Cycle Trail

I know what your thinking! WHAT THE!

Yes, you read right! A solar system bike trail. This 6.4-mile trail will take you through our solar system with scale sculptures of all the planets along the way. The trail begins from Slimbank lane (About 15 minute ride from Astor York, right by the York College. The trail which once was a rail line hosts a variety of vegetation, wildlife, interesting infrastructure, the opportunity for refreshments, and most importantly pubs! Be sure to check it out online for more information, and start planning your voyage into our solar system.

The above are my top picks on how to cycle, skid, jump and wheelie your way around beautiful York, feasting your eyes on some of the most picturesque, unique and historic landscapes and landmarks. Bring your helmet, your wheels remember that you can securely store your bike in our bike shed at Astor York.