If you’re into mountain biking—or you’ve just started hearing the buzz about Ard Rock—you might be wondering what makes this corner of the Yorkshire Dales so popular with riders from all over the UK and beyond. As locals based right here in Swaledale, we’re lucky enough to be surrounded by world-class trails year-round—and the Ard Rock Enduro is the highlight of the MTB calendar.
Whether you’re competing, spectating, or just fancy riding the same epic terrain without the race tape, we’ve got the perfect base for your MTB holiday in Swaledale.
The Ard Rock Enduro is one of the biggest and best-known mountain bike events in the UK. Held each summer in and around Reeth, it’s not just a race—it’s a full-blown mountain biking festival in the Yorkshire Dales. Over the course of the weekend, thousands of riders and spectators descend on the area to enjoy timed stage racing, bike demos, live music, street food, and a buzzing event village with a real party atmosphere.
What makes Ard Rock special is the terrain: the event takes place on private land that’s only rideable during the festival weekend, offering steep, rocky, technical trails you won’t find on any trail map. These stages are legendary for a reason—fast, flowy, and full of adrenaline.
Whether you’re entering one of the Enduro races, soaking up the atmosphere with friends, or making the most of the open trails around the valley, Ard Rock is an unforgettable weekend of bikes, beer, and big hill energy. It’s no wonder Ard Rock Enduro accommodation gets snapped up fast!
Stay just a pedal away from the action at one of our self-catering cottages near the Ard Rock Enduro, including holiday cottages in Reeth, Grinton, and other villages in Swaledale—right in the heart of the event zone.
Many of our cottages are within cycling distance of the event village, so you can ride to the start line, head back for a mid-day pitstop, or simply avoid the parking chaos that comes with such a big event.
Travelling with a group? We’ve got larger properties that are perfect for biking crews, or couples’ cottages if you’re making a weekend of it with your other half. We also have dog-friendly options, so your four-legged trail buddy doesn’t have to stay behind.
Our properties are a great base for the event itself, or for MTB holidays in Swaledale any time of year.
You don’t need a race number to enjoy the riding here. Swaledale is packed with bridleways, gravel tracks, and moorland loops that make it one of the UK’s best destinations for natural mountain biking in the Yorkshire Dales. From long, scenic climbs to hair-raising descents, there’s something for every skill level.
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If you’re not racing Ard Rock this year but want to see what all the fuss is about, why not time your trip with the festival anyway? You can spectate, demo new bikes, and experience the electric atmosphere—without the pressure of a race day. Just be sure to book your Ard Rock Enduro accommodation well in advance!
What makes the Ard Rock Enduro really special is how family-friendly and inclusive it is—not just for riders, but for everyone. While the race stages are adrenaline-fuelled and technical, the event village is packed with things to do for all ages, from bike demos and live music to artisan food stalls and outdoor activities.
You can even pre-book kids’ mountain biking lessons, so younger riders can get a taste of the action in a safe, supportive environment. Off the racecourse, there’s loads to explore: enjoy gentle family rides along the Swale Trail, ideal for beginners and little legs, or cool off with some riverside fun—whether it’s paddling or playing Pooh sticks from a quiet bridge.
The village of Reeth also has a well-equipped children’s playground, and an ice cream parlour that always hits the spot after a summer ride. Whether you’re racing, cheering from the sidelines, or just soaking up the laid-back vibe, Ard Rock is a brilliant weekend for all ages.
The Ard Rock Enduro is a massive weekend for the Yorkshire Dales, and local accommodation books up months in advance. If you’re planning to attend—whether you’re racing, spectating, or just keen to experience the atmosphere—it’s best to secure your holiday cottage in Reeth or Swaledale early to get the location, size, and rider-friendly features you need.
We’re always happy to help you find the right fit for your group size, bikes, and travel plans.
Whether you’re here for the race or planning one of the best MTB holidays in Swaledale, we’ve got a fantastic range of self-catering holiday cottages near the Ard Rock Enduro. Book direct with us and stay close to the action—on the trails, by the river, and in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
