Thorpe Arch to Spofforth Woodland Ride

Sky Ride Local in Leeds

This beautiful 12 mile ride along a smooth flat bridleway from Thorpe Arch to Spofforth is almost completely traffic free.  The relaxing route rides along an old railway line, which is now surrounded by woodland and fields. Setting off from Thorpe Arch, where there is ample free parking, we skirt the market town of Wetherby and then onto Spofforth. Take the opportunity to grab some lunch or hot drinks in the village of Spofforth at the halfway point, and then head back to Thorpe Arch along the same route.  For anybody wanting to increase the distance of their cycling but still keep on the flat this ride is perfect!

This ride uses part of National Cycle Network (NCN) route 67 and 665. To find out more about the NCN and other great places to cycle near you everyday, go to the Sustrans website (http://www.sustrans.org.uk/ncn/map/national-cycle-network).

If you’re fairly confident on your bike and ready to broaden your cycling horizons, our Steady rides are ideal. At a comfortable pace, and possibly with some modest hills along the way, rides take place on mainly quiet roads with plenty of sights along the way. Rides are between 6 and 20 miles long, at a moderate pace of between 7 and 10 miles an hour.

Additional Information

Helmets must be worn by all under 18's regardless of ride level.
Please make sure your bike is in good working order and bring equipment with you to repair punctures, Ride Leaders are there to help but are not responsible for your bike.
All rides leave at the time stated you must arrive early Ride Leaders will not wait. 

Children under the age of 5 do not need to register and must be in a BSA approved child seat, trailer or tag-a-long.

Meet the Ride Leaders

• Trina Elkington Hi, I'm Trina.
  
  I help all sorts of people fish their bike out of the back of the garage, dust it off, and take it out for a fun bike ride in the park or on safe routes.
  
  I won't make you feel embarrassed. I take out a lot of nervous riders and families. I'll help you use your gears, and can even show you how to ride safely off-road if you want!
  
  Don't worry if you're not fit. I promise to make it fun! We'll probably stop for tea and cake too :)
  
  So join me for some fresh air and a friendly atmosphere in and around Leeds and York.
• Paul Elkington Hello,
  
  I'm Paul and I've been a social cyclist for many years. I enjoy going on fun rides, and most of them involve cake, ice cream or both.
  
  I'm back for another year of leading Sky Rides as I love it, as I met loads of great people last year and really enjoyed it.
  
  If I can help anyone feel more safe and confident on a bike, whilst having fun, I'll consider that job done.
  
  See you on a ride soon.
• Joseph Krasinski Hi
  I ride both mountain bikes and road as well as a bit of commuting by bike. As my sons get older I seem to ride more and more with them so I'm well used to riding with kids. I even help run albaRosa Cycling Club's Youth section http://albarosacc.com/youth and I'm the cycling governor at my kids' school

Rider Comments on the Route

1. David Marper Sunday 15th September
   
2. Darryl Rayner Sunday 15th September
   Nice sheltered route, with very little road riding. Ride leaders were very friendly and knowledgeable as well.