Meandering over the Chevin to Ilkley

We cross over both the Leeds Liverpool Canal and River Aire in order to head towards Baildon Station. Crossing the main road we get ourselves warmed up ascending Old Hollins Hill. We then pass through Guiseley to take West Chevin Road down into Otley which we pass through but avoiding the centre and then crossing over the River Wharfe. We head towards Ilkley via Weston and Askwith with the Wharfe to our left. We turn back on ourselves in Ilkley for the café stop and, duly refreshed. we go through residential streets to Burley in Wharfedale and then up twisty but lumpy roads into Menston and then pass Hawksworth en route to Baildon where we take the bridle path that runs alongside Shipley Glen Tramway and back to Hirst Lock.

Banana shaped route that follows quietish roads mostly, out of Airedale into Wharfedale, and then along the river side for part of the way whilst also taking in climbs for spectacular views.

All the ride is on road but most are quiet, albeit with some short main road sections, and twisty at times, through semi-rural areas with the towns of Otley and Ilkley at the eastern and western ends.

We will stop at Booth's Supermarket in Otley which has bike parking observable from the café. There are also all the necessary facilities

As ever make sure you have clothing suitable for often changeable weather as well as a spare inner tube.

We never leave anyone behind