Hop onto the Way of the Roses Cycle Route at Settle. It’s a new coast to coast route which links Morecambe in Lancashire, via the historic cities of Lancaster and York, to Bridlington in Yorkshire. The section, which cuts through Settle and the Forest of Bowland, includes part of the Millennium Cycle way along the river Lune from Lancaster to Caton. From there the route crosses over the river at the beautiful Crook o Lune, and upstream to Gressingham. Country roads take you on to Hornby and Wray – two delightful villages with ample stop off points for views, heritage and refreshments.
The route then follows quiet lanes towards Bentham, passing by the Great Stone of Fourstone and then across the border into North Yorkshire. Beautiful views across the Craven dales and the Three Peaks greet you as you leave the Forest of Bowland at Clapham, but there are many more miles to go if you want to complete the route. A one-day ride from Morecambe to Settle, and a return by train if you prefer, is about 25 miles.
The Way of the Roses cycle route idea was established in 2007 and various organisations, along with Sustrans, went on to develop the route. West to East is the preferred direction, and the climb out of Settle up “IF HILL” (if you can get up!) is demanding. You’re rewarded with great views from Kirkby Fell back towards Heysham and the Lake District, and on a clear day you should see Heysham Power Station, Morecambe Bay, The Lakeland Fells and Pendle Hill.