Leavening Brow & Kirkham Gorge Cycle Route

South and east of the Howardian Hills National Landscape, sweeping views unfold as the Yorkshire Wolds begin to impose themselves upon the landscape. Leaving Malton and Norton, the climb up the western escarpment of the Wolds to Leavening Brow is rewarded with a superb view across the Howardian Hills to the North York Moors and the distant Pennines. Cyclists can then enjoy the initially steep and undulating descent – via tucked-away village pubs – into Kirkham Gorge, where the remains of Kirkham Priory (English Heritage) sit peacefully beside the River Derwent.

About this cycle route

Route type: Road route Distance:19 miles (31km) Time: 3 hours Start point: Malton Market Place Grid Ref: SE 785 717 OS Map: Ordnance Survey 300

Refreshments: Pubs in Leavening, Burythorpe, Westow and Kirkham; drinks and snacks at Kirkham Priory

Road route, for road bikes and hybrids. Be prepared for ascents and descents as you negotiate the western edge of the Yorkshire Wolds and the section down in the Derwent valley. In particular, it's a long climb up to Leavening Brow (lowest gears after Birdsall estate village), and then an initially steep and winding descent west towards the River Derwent.

Thanks to our partners, the Howardian Hills National Landscapes and Sustrans, who devised and produced the route and downloadable guide. This route is also available on the Howardian Hills National Landscapes website.

Route highlights • Kirkham Priory is a good picnic spot – and you could start the route from here instead • Majestic Birdsall House, originally built in the 16th century • Take a break at the pedestrian suspension bridge over the River Derwent at Huttons Ambo