Hop on a Bike and See the Dales

This is cycling country at its best – so much so that the 2014 Tour de France Grand Départ rolled through here, and the region has hosted the Tour de Yorkshire on several occasions.

From the iconic climb over Buttertubs Pass to quiet backroads that open onto breathtaking vistas, the routes around Stone House offer something for every rider. Whether you’re here to clock up the miles or simply fancy a gentle spin with a few pub stops along the way, you’ll find plenty to explore right on the doorstep.

Some Favourite Routes (All Within 45 Minutes of Us)

1. The Yorkshire Dales Cycleway

• Distance: 130 miles (circular)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Start Point: Stone House Hotel
  A proper tour of the Dales. This long-distance route takes in big views, peaceful lanes, and some of the area’s best-loved villages.

2. The Swale Trail

• Distance: 11 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (mountain biking)
• Start Point: Reeth (35-minute drive)
  A scenic, off-road trail that’s great for families and mountain bikers alike – wooded tracks, riverside paths, and a few fun descents thrown in.

3. Wensleydale and Coverdale

• Distance: Varies
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Start Point: Leyburn (30-minute drive)
  Rolling hills, sweeping countryside, and proper postcard views. A peaceful route with plenty of chances to stop and take it all in.

4. Buttertubs Pass

• Distance: Around 7 miles (climb section)
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Start Point: Stone House Hotel 
  One for the brave. Big climbs, bigger views, and one of the most iconic cycling stretches in the country.

5. Richmond and Swaledale Loop

• Distance: 28 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Start Point: Richmond (40-minute drive)
  A rewarding road ride through winding valleys and riverside lanes, passing through historic spots like Grinton and Gunnerside.

6. The Catrake and Birkdale Loop

• Distance: 22 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Start Point: Stone House Hotel
  Quiet backroads, waterfalls, and timeless villages. Ideal for intermediate riders looking for peace and space.

7. The Arkengarthdale Circuit

• Distance: 18 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Start Point: Reeth (35-minute drive)
  A scenic loop through one of the most untouched parts of the Dales. Minimal traffic, gentle hills, and full-on rural charm.

Local Bike Hire & Guided Rides

🚴 Stage 1 Cycles – Hawes (3 mins)
Mountain, hybrid, electric and kids’ bikes. Repairs, guided tours, and a cracking little café.
Mountain bikes & road cycles at Stage 1 Cycles in the Yorkshire Dales – Stage 1 Cycles Ltd

🚴‍♂️ Dales Bike Centre – Reeth (35 mins)
Top-quality mountain and electric bike hire, guided rides, repairs and shop.
Dales Bike Centre

Back at Stone House

We’re well set up for cyclists:

• Secure Bike Barn – with racks and basic tools
• Drying Room – for soggy socks and gear
• Cyclist-Friendly Picnics – made fresh each morning, with sandwiches, snacks, fruit, and a drink – just let us know the day before
• Electric Bike Charging – we’ll point you to the nearest spots

Whether you’re chasing climbs or taking the slow lane, Stone House is the perfect launchpad for your next cycling adventure in the Dales.