BRIAN BEADLE samples the delights of Sledmere

The Yorkshire Wolds presents some of the most rideable and well-marked bridleways in Yorkshire, even in the winter months.

Their chalk base drains the land quickly making the tracks accessible in all but the most inclement weather conditions.

Prehistoric man lived on the Wolds but it wasn't until the Romans came that farming, and corn growing became well organised.

The Romans built their inevitable roads and this month's mountain-bike route uses one of these.

Not so much a road, more a wide, grassy track but rideable and well away from other traffic.

It was the main Roman highway between Bridlington on the coast and York.

Passing through the village of Sledmere is a treat.

There are ornate monuments, memorials and wells to see as well as Sledmere House.

This stately home was built in 1751 and its gardens were designed by Capability Brown.

If you ride in summer Sledmere House will be open to the public.

Refreshments are available in the Triton Inn or at the caf in the grounds of Sledmere House.

The magnificent monument along the Roman road was erected by Sir Tatton Sykes who lives at Sledmere House.

The Route

Turn right when leaving the car park on to the B1248 towards and York.

In just over one mile look for the bridleway signs on each side of the road.

Take the one on the left and turn along a wide grassy track, you are now on the old Roman Road.

In a further mile you cross a minor road still following the bridleway sign.

It is a rough, grassy climb now for two miles with good views across the Wolds towards the coast.

As you approach the next small road you will see Sir Tatton Sykes's monument standing like a space rocket on the horizon which marks the end of this part of the track.

After marvelling at the monument, cross straight over the road taking the minor road in front of you.

In less than a mile the road bends to the left to Sledmere Grange.

Leave the road here keeping straight ahead on to a wide earth track.

An exciting if bumpy downhill section now takes you to Garton Bottom and the road.

Turn left here then in two and half miles turn left on to the B1253 and ride into the village of Sledmere.

Carefully turn right at the junction to ride through the village.

The Triton Inn is on the left and a little further along is the entrance to Sledmere House and its caf.

Keep straight ahead now just before you leave the village at the small roadside car park you might see an ice cream van.

Continue straight on at all times for about three miles to return to the roundabout and car park.

FACT FILE

Distance: 13 miles (21km)

Grading: Moderate

Off Road: 35 per cent

Start/Grid Ref: Car park near roundabout at junction of B1248 and B1251 GR 101/909910 where there are toilets and a picnic area.

Refreshments: The Triton Inn, Sledmere and Sledmere House.

Reference Book: Mountain Biking around the Yorkshire Wolds by J Brian Beadle published by Trailblazer at £1.80, available from books shops, cafes, cycle shops and Tourist Information Centre.