Silkstone Waggonway & Woodland Trails

This ride will take us in a very unequal figure of eight via Silkstone Common and Woolley Edge. About 30% of the route is on tarmac, but much of this is on cycleways or quiet roads. The route features the 1809 horse drawn Silkstone Waggonway, plenty of flowing woodland trails and bridleways, and some fast non-technical descents that will put a big smile on your face. A reasonable level of fitness is required for this ride as there is quite a bit of climbing involved, including Woolley Edge, but the descents do make up for it (honest).

There is no café lunch stop, but we should be able to grab a late morning coffee at the Pot House Hamlet in Silkstone. So, best to bring your own food & drink as well as the usual energy bars etc.

Post-ride refreshment is available at the nearby Star Inn for those who fancy it.

Meet: 10:00 for 10:15 departure.

Location: Asda superstore, Asdale Road, Wakefield, WF2 7EQ.
Don't worry - you won't get clamped!

What3Words location: https://what3words.com/outer.peach.proved

Type of Ride: Off road (mostly).

Distance: 26 miles.

Ride Duration: 5 hours including stops (estimated).

Technical difficulty: BLUE (Moderate), a few short slightly technical bits, and some of the woodland trails can be slithery after rain.

Physical difficulty : RED (difficult), around 2,200ft total (aggregate) ascent so a decent level of fitness required.

Suitable For: Mountain bikes or Hybrids with fat trail tyres.

Recommendations: Spare tube, Tools, Pump, Packed lunch, Energy bars/drinks, Water.

Safety: No Helmet = No Ride!