As a Wakefield-based user of the Trans Pennine Trail, we wanted to explore some areas outside our home patch. We’ve always liked Denby Dale and Skelmanthorpe. They feel like a throwback to the traditional past of the area. Imagine my delight when analysing the local Trans Pennine Trail routes and I noticed that there’s a connection between Denby Dale and Skelmanthorpe and it’s largely all off-road.
This small section of the Trans Pennine Trail connects the two villages nicely and we couldn’t wait to try it out. We used the car for this one to transport our bikes to the area as we were short of time and we are firmly in the ‘leisure cyclist’ camp.
Starting at Gilthwaites Lane in Denby Dale (Next to Denby Dale Primary School), the route follows a trail winding through a serene mix of open fields and woodland before arriving in Skelmanthorpe. The mast at Emley Moor is always in your eyesight on this trip and although short it’s a nice simple route.
While only a short stretch, this portion of the trail provides a valuable link for locals, offering a practical walking route, enjoyable leisure rides and a way for students of Shelley College to walk independently and safely to school.
History of the Trans Pennine Trail Near Denby Dale
The section between Denby Dale and Skelmanthorpe reflects its rich industrial heritage. The area surrounding this route is steeped in textile history, with many villages once thriving as hubs of wool and cloth production. Though this section lacks direct historical landmarks, its connection between villages remains significant for the local community.
Ride Suitability
This route is best suited for intermediate cyclists. While the mileage is short—approximately 1.5 miles each way—the trail poses challenges requiring experience and stamina. The surface is rough and uneven in places, with gravel, loose stones, and some muddy patches after rain. We’ve just come out of a heavy period of snow so the ground was incredibly boggy. We both had mountain bikes so it was fine but any other type of bike may have struggled.
Additionally, there are moderate inclines that may require a strong effort to ascend, particularly for those on standard bikes.For the best experience, riders should opt for a hybrid or mountain bike with sturdy tyres capable of handling uneven terrain.
An electric mountain bike would be ideal for managing the inclines with ease. Beginners might find the surface and gradients challenging, but proficient cyclists, including confident children, should find it manageable and rewarding.
Detailed route
The trail begins at Gilthwaites Lane in Denby Dale, where you can access the path near Denby Dale Primary School. Heading southeast, the route gently ascends through a mixture of woodland and open countryside, offering glimpses of the rolling hills characteristic of the area. This is all completely off-road through the countryside without a car in sight (plenty of cows though!).
After approximately 1.5 miles, you arrive at the outskirts of Skelmanthorpe, exiting near the village’s residential area. From here, it’s a short ride into the village centre via Lidgett or Cross Lane (depending upon what side of Skelmanthorpe you want to access), where cafes and other amenities await.
Facilities in Denby Dale and Skelmanthorpe
Denby Dale:
Community Library and Cafe: This charming library near the start of the route houses a cafe serving light refreshments, perfect for a pre-ride pick-me-up. This is run by volunteers and is a fantastic community hub. It’s approximately half a mile from the start of the trail.
The Denby Dale Tea Rooms: Located a short distance from Gilthwaites Lane, this traditional tea room is known for its homemade cakes and warm hospitality. They are said to have 20 varieties of tea and at the time of writing stock Grumpy Mule coffee. Don’t let the name fool you. They also serve strong coffee!
Skelmanthorpe:
The Coffee Mill & Cakes: A cosy spot with delicious sandwiches and fresh coffee, making it an excellent place to refuel after your ride.
brew?coffee shop: Located inside Future Flooring Carpets and Flooring Showroom but another nice spot to enjoy a cuppa.
Is It Suitable for Children?
The route can be suitable for children with a good level of cycling proficiency. The short distance makes it less daunting, and the ability to loop back easily to either village adds convenience. However, the uneven surface and inclines might challenge younger or less experienced riders.
Our daughter is an experienced cyclist and I think she would find some of the sections challenging. I would only recommend it for those who have extensive experience of cycling purely for the enjoyment factor.
Ride Highlights
Scenic Views: The trail offers stunning countryside views, particularly on the higher inclines. On clear days, you can enjoy panoramic views of Emley Moor mast which is quite a dramatic landmark within this area.
Wildlife Encounters: The quieter nature of this stretch makes it ideal for spotting local wildlife, including rabbits, squirrels, and various bird species.
Community Vibes: Both villages are friendly and welcoming, offering a genuine Yorkshire charm. These areas seem to have maintained their roots well and both offer a genuine community perhaps not found elsewhere.
Would You Recommend It?
Yes, but with some caveats. The route’s rugged terrain and steep inclines make it best suited for intermediate riders or those with the appropriate equipment. The short distance is perfect for a quick outing or for linking with other nearby trails. While the surface could benefit from improvement, its regular use by cyclists, walkers, and even local schoolchildren underscores its value to the community. With a bit of effort, this stretch could be a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts in Yorkshire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cafe?
Yes, both Denby Dale and Skelmanthorpe have excellent cafes. Denby Dale boasts the Community Library Cafe and The Denby Dale Tea Rooms, while Skelmanthorpe offers The Coffee Mill & Cakes & brew?coffee shop.
What is your favourite part of the route?
The gradual climb out of Denby Dale provides a rewarding workout, and the views across the surrounding countryside are breathtaking. The sense of achievement after tackling the inclines makes the ride worthwhile.
Is it suitable for dog walkers?
Absolutely. The trail is popular with dog walkers, offering plenty of space for shared use. However, the uneven surface can be tricky in wet conditions, so sturdy footwear is advisable.
How much is it?
The trail is free to access so open to all.
What is the terrain like?
The terrain is mostly compacted earth and occasional loose stones. There are steep sections and some of the ground is quite chewed up making it a difficult terrain to cycle. Given it’s connection to Skelmanthorpe and Shelley College I feel the use of the path would increase if the surface was improved.
Can you connect this route with other trails?
Yes, the Trans Pennine Trail offers numerous connecting routes. From Denby Dale, you can venture toward Penistone for a longer ride or explore local bridleways and footpaths for a more varied adventure. You can jump onto other sections of the Trans Pennine Trail in both directions so there’s an abundance of options available!
Final Thoughts
The Trans Pennine Trail from Gilthwaites Lane in Denby Dale to Skelmanthorpe is a short but characterful route that embodies the charm and challenge of Yorkshire cycling. While not my favourite patch of Trans Pennine Trail due to the surface, this trail rewards effort with scenic views and access to welcoming village facilities.
This is still an incredibly useful stretch of path and the route offers a slice of adventure for cyclists, walkers, and families alike.
With potential surface improvements, this section could become an even greater asset to the community in general as an active travel route from both the villages; particularly for those in secondary education at Shelley College.
Cycle Route Rating
Last Updated on January 29, 2025 by Ryan
Hello. I am Ryan and along with my wife Beth and our two children Matilda and Barney, we love all things cycling and exploring. We spend our weekends exploring fun places to cycle and discover and wanted to help other people do the same too. There’s no better way to travel than via bike and it’s an amazing activity for the whole family to enjoy.