The adventure begins with a full tank of fuel on the east side of the city of York, a city rich in history and culture.
Heading out towards the York Maze, the largest maze in the UK. York Maze, a seasonal attraction, is crafted from over a million maize plants and offers fun activities for families. Maybe this is somewhere to visit on a separate day, pencil it into your diary.

Yorkshire Air Museum and the River Derwent
Continuing eastward, the next stop is the Yorkshire Air Museum at Elvington, a tribute to aviation history and home to a remarkable collection of aircraft, including World War II bombers and modern jet planes. Situated on the site of a former RAF base, the museum provides insight into Yorkshire’s significant role during the war. Admission price is £15.00.

Travelling further, the route crosses the River Derwent, a serene waterway that meanders through the countryside. The Derwent offers picturesque views, making it an ideal spot for a brief pause to appreciate the natural beauty.

Market Weighton and Middleton on the Wolds
The journey then leads to Market Weighton, a charming market town known for its traditional architecture and ties to William Bradley, Britain’s tallest man at 7 feet 9 inches (2.36 m) (1787 - 1820). It was almost inevitable that a man of his size would end up in a travelling freak show where people would pay to see this freak of nature! Sadly William Bradley died at just 33 years of age in his home town of Market Weighton and is buried in the local church. He was originally buried in the churchyard but later buried inside for fear of grave robbers.
From here, the route ascends into the Yorkshire Wolds, a landscape of rolling hills and verdant fields. Passing through Middleton on the Wolds, riders can enjoy gentle curves and smooth roads that are perfect for motorcycles.

Coffee Break at Seaways Café, Fridaythorpe
Reaching Fridaythorpe, the highest village in the Yorkshire Wolds, riders stop at Seaways Café, a well-known meeting point for bikers. The café offers hearty snacks, coffee, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a great place to share stories with fellow riders and take a well-earned break before heading north.

North Grimstone to Kirkham Priory
From Fridaythorpe, the route takes a scenic turn through North Grimstone, a quaint hamlet with a historic Saxon church. The road here offers gentle twists and turns, leading to Kirkham Priory. Nestled by the River Derwent, this medieval monastic ruin is surrounded by peaceful countryside. Kirkham Priory played a role during World War II as a testing ground for amphibious tanks, adding a layer of modern history to its ancient origins.

The Stray and Castle Howard
Turning onto The Stray, riders enter an area rich in heritage. Passing through Carrmire Gate and Pyramid Gate, they encounter the Obelisk, a striking landmark that marks the approach to Castle Howard. One of England’s grandest stately homes, Castle Howard is an architectural masterpiece built in the early 18th century for the Howard family. Designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, the house boasts opulent interiors, extensive gardens, and a magnificent dome. Castle Howard has also served as a filming location for productions like Brideshead Revisited and Bridgerton, cementing its status as a cultural icon. Again, perhaps better to visit on a separate occasion.

Nunnington Hall and Helmsley Castle
Heading north, the route passes Nunnington Hall, a picturesque manor house with beautiful walled gardens. Operated by the National Trust, the hall offers a glimpse into Yorkshire’s domestic history.
Continuing to Helmsley, a short detour takes you to the imposing ruins of Helmsley Castle. Dating back to the 12th century, the castle has a storied history, including its use as a stronghold during the English Civil War. Today, it stands as a testament to the region’s medieval heritage.

The B1257 through the North York Moors
Leaving Helmsley, the journey transitions onto the B1257, a renowned motorcycling road. This stretch through the western edge of the North York Moors National Park is a rider’s dream, featuring sweeping bends, challenging gradient changes, and breathtaking vistas. The undulating terrain and well-maintained tarmac make it one of the most exhilarating parts of the trip. It’s crucial to ride cautiously, though, as the road’s popularity attracts many vehicles.

Lunch Stop at Stokesley
Arriving in Stokesley, a charming market town on the edge of the North York Moors, riders can enjoy a leisurely lunch. Stokesley’s vibrant town centre offers plenty of options, from cozy cafés to traditional pubs, making it an ideal midpoint for refuelling and relaxation. I recommend Sadlers Café & Bistro but there is

Cod Beck Reservoir and Osmotherley

Post-lunch, the route heads south, passing Cod Beck Reservoir. Located near Osmotherley, this tranquil spot is surrounded by wooded trails and open moorland, making it a favorite among walkers and nature lovers. The reservoir was constructed in the late 19th century to supply water to the nearby areas and remains a key feature of the local landscape.

The nearby village of Osmotherley is equally enchanting, with its stone cottages, traditional inns, and ties to the Cleveland Way walking trail. It’s a perfect place to pause and soak in the quintessential Yorkshire charm.

Northallerton, Bedale, and the River Ure

Continuing through Northallerton and Bedale, the route offers a mix of open roads and gentle curves. Crossing the River Ure at West Tanfield provides another opportunity to admire Yorkshire’s waterways. The river is a vital part of the region’s ecosystem, supporting a diverse range of wildlife.

Ripon and Boroughbridge

As the journey nears its end, riders pass through Ripon, home to the impressive Ripon Cathedral. This small city has a rich history and offers a blend of medieval and Georgian architecture. Further along, Boroughbridge provides a final dose of Yorkshire’s historic charm, with its quaint streets and proximity to the Devil’s Arrows, ancient standing stones shrouded in mystery.

Return to York

The final leg of the journey brings riders back to York, completing the round trip. Reflecting on the day’s adventure, it’s clear that this route offers an unparalleled mix of thrilling roads, cultural landmarks, and stunning scenery. From the historical marvels of Castle Howard and Helmsley Castle to the natural beauty of the Yorkshire Wolds and North York Moors, this motorcycle tour showcases the best of what Yorkshire has to offer.