Way of the Roses - Coast to Coast Cycle Route

The Way of the Roses is the most stunning and also the newest of the 8 Sustrans Coast to Coast cycle routes. Beginning in Morecombe the route passes through two of the North’s great National Parks and two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The route takes in some of great northern cities York, Lancaster and Ripon and gives stunning views and great riding end to end. In its centre it crosses the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty before passing into Ripon and Boroughbridge, taking in some of the most beautiful scenery along its route.

This makes Nidderdale one of the most popular stopping points on the Way of the Roses for those doing the route in two days, or four or more.  The High Street in Pateley Bridge was recently awarded best in the country, not least for its eclectic food and drink offering with eateries welcoming cycling’s and walkers.

Once past Pateley Bridge the way of the Roses route takes the scenic route to the medieval city of Ripon, passing one of Yorkshire’s most stunning natural wonders, Brimham Rocks, and then later via Fountains Abbey and the manmade wonder of the Studley Royal Water Gardens, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Ripon the beautiful market place is a great spot to take a breather, indulge in a delicious snack from the local shops or enjoy a tour of the magnificent cathedral. Ripon also marks the end of the serious hills, and as riders leave the city a gentler terrain sets the tone for the remaining miles to Bridlington as riders enjoy the rolling lanes that will take them through scenic villages to the market town of Boroughbridge.

Boroughbridge was a vital staging post on the Great North Road, marking the halfway point between London and Edinburgh.  The town retains its midpoint role on the Way of the Roses, marking the halfway in distance point between Morecombe and Bridlington. The halfway point in terms of effort is considered to be Pateley Bridge, due to the large amount of climbing in the first half of the route. Get the most from your Way of the Roses tour by enjoying a good night’s sleep in some of our Cycle Friendly Accommodation where you can be sure of a warm welcome and good cyclist facilities.