Awayday July 2026

Skipton Wednesday 15th July

Starting Venue:	Skipton
Route Length:	38 miles
Climbing:	3000ft / 900m
Route Description:	The route starts and finishes at the castle in the market town of Skipton (Wednesday is market day) but once clear of the town it’s onto quieter roads through Barnoldswick, Helifield, Airton and Gargrave. There are a couple sections of towpaths alongside the Leeds and Liverpool canal but the gravel surfaces are good and level throughout. The main climb of the day comes early after the village of Carleton up to Pinhaw Beacon. This is followed by a descent to Earby on which care has to be taken as there are some steep sections and bends.
Travel Time:	45 minutes (allowing for Hex Gill roadworks) from Harrogate.
Car Parking:	The Bailey car park, Skipton Castle. £4.80 all day on a Wednesday. Pay at the kiosk, cards preferred. What3Words: ///broached.regulator.fruit. There is no height restriction at the entrance.
Facilities at Start:	Toilets are in town by the car park on Jerry Croft (might need to take the bike). No cafe at the start but coffee available in town and an early stop is planned.
Coffee Stop:	Two options for a coffee stop at Barnoldswick : The Factory Cafe at Esse Stoves (signposted after crossing the bridge over the Leeds and Liverpool Canal) at about 12 miles and the Lock Stop Cafe about a mile further on (outdoor seating only). These are not booked so groups can decide on the day.
Lunch Stop:	Town End Farm Shop Airton (28 miles).
Depart:	Assemble at the Bailey car park for a 9:30am start.
	To sign up or for further information please email Doug Higgins at .