Depending on how confident and fit a cyclist you are, there are a range of destinations that can be accessed by bike from The Willows.
Harrogate town centre can be accessed in around 10 minutes by bike; where a range of shops, restaurants and other facilities can be accessed. Harrogate and Hornbeam Park train stations are also both around a 10-minute cycle ride away, which when considering traffic and the time it takes to park is probably quicker than a journey by car! So why not cycle as part of your commute or wider journey?
Whilst many of the local roads to the west and south are rural in nature, as you get closer to Harrogate town centre cyclists are well catered for, with several recommended on- and off-road ‘cycle loops’ around the centre. You can view the Harrogate Active Travel map here, which shows a network of recommended local routes.
From Harrogate centre you can also access Route 67 of the National Cycle Network, which is a predominantly traffic-free route particularly as you head towards Leeds.
For more information on cycling in Harrogate visit our useful cycling guides and resources page.
Planning a Journey by Bike
If you are unfamiliar with the local area and looking to plan a route by bike, an online route planner can be a really useful tool to use. You can enter your journey start point and end point and the route planner will display a number of route options on a handy map. Alongside easy to follow directions it will tell you how far the journey is, how long it will take, and even how hilly it is.
Cycle Streets is a handy website that allows you to plan your journey. Simply enter your start and end points and away you go!
Why cycle?
Cycling is rapidly growing in popularity, and through the CV19 pandemic has for many people become an essential travel option. Cycling has always, however, been a great way to travel around for those able to do so. It offers many personal benefits, such as improved health and cost savings. It also offers significant benefit to the environment and local community, helping to take cars off the road, reducing pollution and reducing congestion.
Cycling can also be a great commuter travel option. If you’re new to cycling or aren’t really sure where to starting with your cycle-commute then check out some of our handy guidance on buying a commuter bike, commuting by bike whatever the weather and the benefits of choosing to travel actively.