New UK Coast-to-coast cycle tour route opened

‘Way of the Roses’ route set to inspire thousands of cycling tourists 170 mile coast-to-coast leisure route opens

As the National Cycle network celebrates its 15th anniversary, a new spectacular route has been completed which transforms 170 miles of roads and cycle tracks into a spectacular new ‘coast-to-coast’ leisure route for cyclists and walkers in the North of England.

Starting on the west coast in Morecambe, Lancashire, and finishing on the east coast in the seaside resort of Bridlington, Yorkshire, the new Way of the Roses route officially opens on Saturday 11 September 2010, and passes through magnificent landscapes including the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and the Forest of Bowland and Nidderdale Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The route also links the Lune Valley and Yorkshire Wolds, and passes through historic cities and towns such Lancaster, York and Ripon. It is one of seven UK ‘coast to coast’ routes on the National Cycle Network.

Way of the Roses has been in development since 2007 led by sustainable transport charity Sustrans in partnership with local authorities, tourist boards and other organisations.  The opening of the well-signed route will not only connect local communities along the route, but is also expected to significantly boost green tourism across the area.  

Sustrans’ Regional Director for Yorkshire, David Hall, said: "The Way of the Roses runs through some of northern England’s most stunning countryside with beautiful coastal scenery either side of the route. Whether cyclists choose to tackle the whole 170 mile length of the path as part of a challenge ride adventure, or enjoy a leisurely ride across sections of the route, Way of the Roses is suitable for use by people of varying ability and interest.

Rupert Douglas, Sustrans’ Cycling Consultant involved in bringing the development of the project together, said: "The opening of this new route will bring in thousands of new cycling visitors to the area each year, which in turn will impact positively on local businesses benefiting from their significant spending on accommodation, food and drink, cycling and other services. Many are likely to return to repeat the experience or spend more time exploring a particular area ."

A southern strand for the route between Pateley Bridge and York via Harrogate and Knaresborough is planned to open in 2011.

The route is opening as part of the celebrations for the 15th Anniversary of the National Cycle Network which now extends over 12,000 miles and carries more than 1million walking and cycling journeys every day.  Sustrans promotes walking and cycling as the natural everyday choice for short local journeys as well as a way to explore the UK and get out and about for leisure.

A ‘Way of the Roses’ route map will be available from the end of August. Further information about Sustrans, including other news releases and detailed online route mapping, is available through at: www.sustrans.org.uk
 

Valere Tjolle