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LOCATION DETAILS

Gravel Rocks is based in Duncombe Park Estate near Helmsley, on the southern edge of the North York Moors National Park. This impressive private estate is the perfect setting for a weekend gravel adventure.

For those non-cyclists who wish to come along to support there is plenty to do within easy reach of the event village. Duncombe Park has a Bird of Prey Centre, riverside/parkland walks and is adjacent to Helmsley Castle and walled gardens.

Helmsley has all facilities including a good range of shops, some great cafes as well as hotels and pubs. Nearby Thirsk has all the major supermarkets, fuel stations and local bike shops.

More information will be available in the Supporter’s Guide.

Directions from the South

Follow the A1 (North) to junction 49, then the A168 to Thirsk. From here the A170 leads to Sutton Bank and Helmsley – these should be signed. The event will be signed once you enter Helmsley.

Please note that Sutton Bank is notorious for its steep gradient. Anyone in a large vehicle should follow alternative signed routes.

Anyone approaching from the east coast should look for the A170 to Pickering and continue along this road to Helmsley.

Directions from the North

Follow the A1 (South) from Newcastle/Darlington to junction 49 – signed Thirsk. The A168 then leads to Thirsk.

From here the A170 leads to Sutton Bank and Helmsley – these should be signed. The event will be signed once you enter Helmsley.

Please note that Sutton Bank is notorious for its steep gradient. Anyone in a large vehicle should follow alternative signed routes.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVELERS:

The nearest airport is Newcastle or Leeds Bradford.

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THE NORTH YORK MOORS

The North York Moors National Park, established on November 28, 1952, is a stunning area in north eastern England, covering 554 square miles (1,436 square kilometres). It offers diverse landscapes, including one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in England and Wales with a dramatic coastline. Its 26-mile coastline and the 109-mile Cleveland Way National Trail (starting in Helmsley and ending in Filey) provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Key highlights of the North York Moors National Park

  • Helmsley: A charming town with a market square, independent shops, and historic sites like Helmsley Castle and the Helmsley Walled Garden. The Cleveland Way starts here, and nearby is the awe-inspiring Rievaulx Abbey.
  • Sutton Bank: Known for dramatic views and coined the finest view in England by James Heriot, is also a hub for cycling. The area features a variety of mountain biking trails, such as the family-friendly Cliff Trail, the moderate Fort Trail, and the more challenging Paradise Trail for experienced riders.
  • Dalby Forest in the heart of the North York Moors National Park offers the perfect place to escape, relax and adventure. Home to 8,000 acres of breath-taking views, endless walking, running and cycle trails and Gruffalo adventures, a great day out awaits at Dalby Forest.
  • Cycling: The North York Moors Cycleway, a 171-mile loop, takes cyclists through breathtaking landscapes, including deep forests and rugged coastline, offering a challenging multi-day ride through-out the National Park.
  • Dark Skies: Officially one of the best places in the country to see stars, because of the low light pollution levels and clear horizons. From a town or city you’ll be lucky to spot more than a handful of stars but the further away you get from street lights, the better the view – in the darkest areas of the National Park you can spy up to 2,000 at any one time.

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