The North York Moors are recognised as one of the very best areas for cycling in England. The region offers a vast and varied network of quiet lanes and off road tracks that make best use of the topography and stunning views afforded by the moorland, forest and coastal scenery. There are a number of cross country cycle trails around the National Park, and a wealth of purpose built trails in nearby Dalby Forest. Contrast this with the former railway track along the coast between Whitby and Scarborough which offers spectacular views of this very special coastline. Other cycle routes utilising dismantled railways can be found around the North York Moors, often at a high level, demonstrating the Moors’ industrial heritage. Popular examples of such trails are in nearby Rosedale and Farndale where the rural moorland setting contrasts with the ruined remains of the ironstone industry.

Pickering is at the centre of an area comprising the North York Moors, Howardian Hills and the Yorkshire Wolds. Click www.mtb-routes.co.uk/northyorkmoors/default.aspx to see a location map and details of nearby routes. Pickering is also one of the starting points for the Moor to Sea cycle route – a triangular route, mainly off-road, of some 110km over the moors and through the forests to Whitby and Scarborough. www.moortoseacycle.net

Dalby Forest is less than 10km away, and boasts what is probably England’s finest mountain biking facility. Click www.singletraction.org.uk/downloads/dalbymap01.jpg for a map of the forest showing the various routes graded by colour. There is something for everyone here whatever your age and ability level. Green for easy family cycling of either 4k or 10k, blue also technically easy but involving a significant climb up onto the Dalby plateau and a route distance of 14k, red on 40k of the newly built singletrack for experienced and fit cyclists, black about 10k but strictly for experts.

As well as all these local cycling opportunities we can offer the following extras:-

• We are members of the national Cyclists Welcome scheme and provide even more facilities than the requirements of the scheme.

• John is a regular cyclist (when Marilyn lets him out of the kitchen) and has up-to-date detailed knowledge of local routes.

• We have a substantial collection of maps and guidebooks, all of which are available for you to borrow. All we ask is that you return them in good condition.

• We offer secure cycle storage.

• We offer an emergency breakdown service. Phone us if you have a problem and, if we are around, for a modest fee we will come and collect you and your bike.

• The cycling for softies option. Unfortunately we have a few hills hereabouts, so if we are available at the start of the day, we will drive you and your bikes up onto the moors so you can start your ride from on high. (Please note that we can transport a maximum of two cycles and cyclists only, to a destination and at a price to be agreed at least the day before.)

• The Bramwood breakfast will put power into your legs! Combine a “full English” with cereals, toast and fruit and that should easily last you until a late lunchtime.

• There’s a local cycle shop only 200 metres away, with a helpful owner.