Heritage cycle routes

The routes are designed to allow cyclists to take in Yorkshire's rich heritage.

Cyclists wanting to get out and about in North Yorkshire might like to check out two trails which offer a different way of exploring the coast and moors.

The first, a 27 mile route, connects two of the county's best known historic cliff top landmarks, Scarborough Castle and Whitby Abbey.

The trail follows a portion of the old railway line, which forms a traffic-free part of the Sustrans National Cycle Network, and is ideal for families or 'Sunday' cyclists.

People who travel the full 27 miles will end their journey at Whitby Abbey.

Bike riders can begin their coastal exploration by finding out about Scarborough Castle's 2500 years of history, taking on 'fuel' in the Master Gunner's Tea Room and then cycling along as much or as little of the route as they fancy.

The trail is included in a new English Heritage cycling leaflet featuring two routes between their sites in the North York Moors and on the coast.

People who decide to travel the full 27 miles will end their journey at Whitby Abbey's beautiful gothic ruins and then might decide to descend into the town to enjoy fish and chips on the harbour side.

English Heritage's visitor operations manager, Jamie Marshall says:

"Cycling is a great way to get out and take the air, especially at the seaside. The stretch of coast from Scarborough to Whitby has some of the most stunning views you'll find anywhere. On a bike you can escape the roads and crowds and see more of the seaside scenery.".

Cycling is a great way to get out and take the air.

Helmsley Castle, Rievaulx and Byland Abbeys feature in the other route, covering 15 miles. This circular route takes cyclists through some of the North York Moors most scenic countryside, starting and ending at Helmsley Castle's visitor centre.

The routes in the new leaflet are designed to allow cyclists to take in some of Yorkshire's rich heritage by exploring the historic properties en route.

Special cycle racks have been installed at several of the English Heritage sites, so that cyclists can secure their bikes while they take time out to experience a taste of local history, before embarking on the next leg of the route