North York Moors · England
Blakey Ridge
The road over Blakey Ridge runs along the spine of the North York Moors past the Lion Inn, with Farndale on one side and Rosedale on the other. It is open, lonely and beautiful, especially when the heather is out.
- Distance
- ≈ 13 miles
- Twistiness
- 2/5
- Best season
- April – October
- Best for
- Cars & bikes
Why go
What makes Blakey Ridge special
- Ridge-top road with valleys either side
- The Lion Inn at the summit
- Purple heather in August and September
Watch out for
- Unfenced — sheep wander freely
- Exposed to strong winds and fog
- Narrow with occasional wide vehicles
Road conditions change. Check closures, weather and local restrictions before you set off, and always ride and drive within the limit.
As a group
Taking a group over Blakey Ridge
Blakey Ridge works well for groups. Brief the group at Hutton-le-Hole, keep two-second gaps through the bends and regroup at Hutton-le-Hole. Sweep can see who's behind throughout.
One shared route
Everyone on the same line from the start.
Lead and sweep
Sweep sees exactly who's behind.
Planned regroups
Stop at Hutton-le-Hole.
FAQ
Blakey Ridge: common questions
How long is Blakey Ridge?+
Blakey Ridge runs for about 13 miles from Hutton-le-Hole to Castleton in North York Moors.
When is the best time to drive or ride Blakey Ridge?+
The best season is April – October. Go early in the day to avoid traffic, and check for closures in poor weather.
Is Blakey Ridge good for motorcycles?+
Yes — Blakey Ridge is a popular motorcycle road with a twistiness rating of 2 out of 5. Unfenced — sheep wander freely.
Can I ride Blakey Ridge as a group?+
Blakey Ridge works well for groups. Brief the group at Hutton-le-Hole, keep two-second gaps through the bends and regroup at Hutton-le-Hole. Sweep can see who's behind throughout.
Keep riding
More roads you'll like
Pickering to Whitby
The A169 strikes across the heart of the moors past the Hole of Horcum and Fylingdales before dropping down to Whitby. Big sweepers, long sightlines and a seaside finish make it a proper day out.
Rosedale Chimney Bank
Rosedale Chimney Bank is one of the steepest roads in England, with hairpins at around 1 in 3. It is a short test of clutch control and nerve rather than a flowing drive, with superb views from the top.
Windermere to Keswick
The A591 is the spine of the Lake District, passing Ambleside, Rydal Water and Grasmere before climbing over Dunmail Raise to Thirlmere and Keswick. It is more scenic than challenging, and the ideal link road.