York has long had its inner and outer ring roads for motorists.
Now cyclists can go round in circles too – thanks to the completion of the Orbital Route.
The route begins and ends at Millennium Bridge. Its 26 way-markers, which highlight the route at key points around the city, are also marked on the council’s cycling map.
From the bridge, the route heads west through South Bank and skirts around Knavesmire before crossing Hob Moor. It then continues north along quiet residential streets in Acomb before crossing the River Ouse at Clifton Bridge.
From Clifton Green, the route goes up Water Lane and Kingsway North, heads onto Crichton Avenue and joins up with the off-road Sustrans cycle track, known as the Foss Islands Route. It continues onto James Street before reaching the junction with Lawrence Street, then returns to Millennium Bridge from the east via quiet residential roads close to The Barbican and along the riverside cycle track at New Walk from the Blue Bridge.
“The creation of this continuous orbital route means that it’s now much easier to reach the city centre or by-pass it altogether, from any direction, using a comprehensive network of on and off-road routes,” said Councillor Dave Merrett, from City of York Council.
“York now has one of the most advanced cycle route networks in the UK, which is great news for anyone who commutes to work, school or college by bike, or enjoys cycling during their leisure time. I think the Orbital Route has to be one of Cycling City York‘s finest and most enduring achievements.”