Helmsley Grand Tour of the North York Moors

A full-day lap of the North York Moors that skirts the outside of the national park rather than crossing the middle. You drop off the moor edge on a famously steep descent, cross the flat vale, then climb back onto open heather moor and finish through the market towns along the southern foot.

Almost every road is a main road, so the riding is quick where it is not hilly, with one long dual carriageway stretch that earns its place by linking the two halves. The steep descent and one sharp moorland hill ask for care; the rest is steady, sweeping miles. Allow a full day with stops, plan fuel in advance, and pick settled weather between spring and autumn.