Whether rediscovering the freewheeling freedom of childhood or feeling the exhilaration of adrenaline-fuelled challenges, during the past year the number of weekend cyclists has doubled. Just on Scarborough's doorstep in Ryedale are some of Britain’s best and most varied cycling routes. Whether on or off-road, Ryedale’s gloriously diverse patchwork landscape makes it a pedalling paradise. To look up cycling routes around Ryedale, including those mentioned in this gallery, visit here.
5. World-class… on the road
With the increased popularity of endurance road racing and cyclo-sportives, there is a vast network of cycle-friendly roads which have given it a starring role in every international Tour de Yorkshire road race. Photo: Picture: Ryedale District Council
6. Ride 2: Perfect Panoramas
If you’re wanting a ride with a view, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Ryedale but the rollercoaster ride on the edge of the Yorkshire Wolds is a cycling club classic. From the hilltop at Leavening Brow, there are breath-taking, king’s-eye views across the whole of Ryedale to the distant Pennines. Photo: Ryedale District Council
7. World-class… on the road
If you enjoy a ride with a view try local classics like the Leavening Loop, the Yorkshire Wolds Cycle Route starting at Malton, the Bransdale Loop starting at Kirkbymoorside, or Ryedale Folk Museum’s heritage route around Kirkdale. Photo: Picture: Ryedale District Council
8. Ride 1: The Great British Bake-Ride
It might be tranquil, it might be uncrowded, but you’ll never travel far in Ryedale without coming across a traditional bakehouse or a tempting tearoom; it’s one of the reasons why the area’s been dubbed Britain’s Capital of Cake. The 23-mile Tearoom Tour is a great example of the region’s baking excellence. Photo: Ryedale District Council