December Cycling: The Gentle Wensleydale Pedal from Askrigg to Redmire
December in the Dales isn’t everyone’s idea of cycling weather, but wrapped up warm with the right mindset, there’s something magical about having these lanes almost to yourself. The route from Askrigg to Redmire is one of my favourites for a winter’s day – gentle, forgiving, and perfectly punctuated with places to warm up along the way.
Setting off from Karnten Cottage, you’ll head east out of Askrigg village, following the quiet country lane that hugs the valley floor. This isn’t a challenging route – we’re talking rolling countryside rather than steep climbs, which is exactly what you want when the air’s crisp and your legs need time to warm up. The road meanders through some of the most quintessential Dales scenery: drystone walls threading across winter fields, bare ash trees etched against grey skies, and if you’re lucky, that particular quality of December light that makes everything look like a watercolour painting.
The beauty of this route is its flexibility. Carperby sits roughly halfway, making it a natural stopping point if you fancy breaking the journey. The village has that timeless feel that makes you want to linger, even in winter. From there, it’s an easy pedal onwards to Redmire, where you’ll find one of those proper Dales pubs that knows how to welcome cyclists – muddy boots, rosy cheeks and all.
Practical Winter Cycling Wisdom
Let’s talk kit, because December cycling is all about being prepared. Layers are your friend – start with a good base layer, add a fleece or wool jumper, and top it off with a windproof jacket. Your extremities will feel the cold first, so invest in proper winter gloves and shoe covers. I’ve learned this the hard way: numb fingers make gear changes interesting, and cold feet can turn a pleasant ride into an endurance test.
Check your bike lights before you set off, even for a daytime ride. December days are short, and Dale weather can change quickly. If you’re planning to stop at a pub (which, frankly, is half the point), remember that what feels warm enough while you’re pedalling can feel arctic when you’re stationary. Pack an extra layer or a warm hat to throw on when you stop.
The road surface can be unpredictable in winter – wet leaves, the occasional frost, maybe even ice in the shadows. Take the corners gently and don’t be afraid to get off and walk if conditions look dodgy. This isn’t about setting speed records; it’s about enjoying the ride and arriving safely at your destination.
Pub Stops and Winter Warmth
The real joy of winter cycling in Wensleydale is the promise of a proper pub stop. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of pushing open a heavy pub door, feeling that wall of warmth hit you, and settling in with a pint and something hearty from the kitchen. The pubs along this route understand cyclists – they’ve seen plenty of us roll up looking like we’ve been wrestling with the weather.
A good pub lunch becomes something special when you’ve earned it on two wheels. Think proper Sunday roast territory, hearty stews, or fish and chips that actually taste like they’ve been cooked with love rather than reheated under a heat lamp. And there’s no shame in lingering over a second pint when the alternative is heading back out into December air that could cut glass.
The ride back to Askrigg gives you a different perspective on the same landscape. Late afternoon light in December has a particular quality – low, golden when it breaks through the clouds, creating those moments when the whole dale seems to glow. You might find yourself stopping just to take it in, which is exactly as it should be.
Back at Karnten Cottage, you’ll appreciate the warmth even more after your winter adventure. There’s something deeply satisfying about a day that combines fresh air, gentle exercise, and proper pub hospitality – the kind of combination that makes December in the Dales feel less like something to endure and more like something to embrace.
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*Images are for illustration purposes only and may not represent exact locations or conditions*
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Disclaimer: Featured images are for illustration purposes only and may not represent exact locations, conditions, or seasons. Weather, lighting, and scenery vary throughout the year. Always check current conditions before planning your visit.