Cycling in the Peak District
The Peak District is a haven for cyclists, offering a diverse range of trails and routes that cater to all skill levels and preferences. From challenging mountain biking trails to scenic road cycling routes, the Peak District's stunning landscapes and charming villages make it an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the best cycling routes in the Peak District, providing recommendations and tips to help you make the most of your cycling adventure.
Peak District Cycling Routes
The Peak District boasts a variety of cycling routes that showcase the area's natural beauty and provide exciting challenges for riders. One of the most popular routes is the Monsal Trail, a traffic-free trail that follows the old Midland Railway line. This 8.5-mile trail offers stunning views of the Monsal Dale and passes through several tunnels and viaducts, making it a scenic and enjoyable ride for cyclists of all levels.
Best Cycling Trails Peak District
Among the best cycling trails in the Peak District, the Tissington Trail stands out as a favorite. This 13-mile trail starts in Ashbourne and follows a disused railway line north to Parsley Hay. It’s an excellent trail for families and casual cyclists, offering a relatively flat and easy ride through beautiful countryside. The trail also connects to the High Peak Trail, providing options for extending your ride.
Mountain Biking Peak District
For those seeking more challenging terrain, the Peak District offers some fantastic mountain biking opportunities. The Jacobs Ladder Trail is a renowned route that starts in Edale and climbs up to Kinder Scout. This trail is known for its steep ascents, rocky paths, and technical sections, making it a thrilling ride for experienced mountain bikers. The breathtaking views from the top are well worth the effort.
Road Cycling Peak District
Road cyclists will find plenty of scenic and challenging routes in the Peak District. The Winnats Pass is a must-ride for road cyclists visiting the area. This iconic climb starts in Castleton and ascends steeply through a narrow limestone gorge. The challenging gradient and stunning scenery make it a memorable ride. Be prepared for a tough climb, but the views at the top are simply spectacular.
Cycle Hire Peak District
If you don’t have your own bike, there are several cycle hire options in the Peak District. Hassop Station Café & Cycle Hire is a popular choice, conveniently located on the Monsal Trail. They offer a range of bikes for all ages and abilities, including electric bikes. You can also enjoy a meal at the café before or after your ride, making it a great starting point for a day of cycling.
Family Cycling Routes Peak District
The Peak District is a fantastic destination for family cycling adventures. The Manifold Track is an excellent family-friendly route that follows the path of the former Leek and Manifold Light Railway. This 8-mile trail is mostly flat and traffic-free, making it ideal for children and less experienced riders. The route passes through the picturesque Manifold Valley and offers plenty of picnic spots and places to explore.
Cycling Tours Peak District
For those who prefer a guided experience, there are several companies offering cycling tours in the Peak District. Peak District Cycling provides a range of guided tours that cater to different interests and skill levels. One popular tour is the Bakewell to Chatsworth Tour, which takes you on a scenic ride through the beautiful countryside, with a stop at the historic Chatsworth House. The tour includes bike hire, a knowledgeable guide, and entry to Chatsworth House, making it a fantastic way to explore the area.
Cycling Holidays Peak District
The Peak District is a perfect destination for a cycling holiday, offering a range of accommodation options and cycling routes to explore. Peak District National Park Cycle Routes offer a variety of multi-day itineraries that showcase the best of the area. One recommended route is the Derwent Valley Heritage Way, which takes you on a scenic journey along the River Derwent, passing through charming villages and historic sites. This route is ideal for those looking to combine cycling with cultural and historical experiences.
Scenic Bike Rides Peak District
If you’re looking for scenic bike rides, the Peak District has plenty to offer. The High Peak Trail is a 17-mile route that follows the former Cromford and High Peak Railway. This trail offers stunning views of the White Peak landscape and passes through several interesting landmarks, including the Cromford Canal and Middleton Top. The gentle gradients and well-maintained surface make it suitable for all levels of cyclists.
Peak District Bike Trails
The Peak District is home to an extensive network of bike trails that cater to all types of cyclists. One standout trail is the Hope Valley Circular, a 20-mile loop that starts and ends in the village of Hope. This trail takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of the Peak District, including the villages of Castleton and Edale, and offers a mix of road and off-road cycling. It’s a fantastic route for those looking to explore the area and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Popular Cycling Routes and Recommendations
1 Monsal Trail
Route Recommendation: Start at Bakewell and cycle to Blackwell Mill. This 8.5-mile traffic-free trail offers stunning views of the Monsal Dale and passes through several tunnels and viaducts.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 8.5 miles (one way)
Highlights: Monsal Viaduct, tunnels, scenic views
2 Tissington Trail
Route Recommendation: Begin in Ashbourne and follow the trail north to Parsley Hay. This 13-mile trail offers a relatively flat and easy ride through beautiful countryside.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 13 miles (one way)
Highlights: Beautiful countryside, connections to High Peak Trail
3 Jacobs Ladder Trail
Route Recommendation: Start in Edale and climb up to Kinder Scout. This challenging mountain biking trail offers steep ascents, rocky paths, and technical sections.
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 10 miles (round trip)
Highlights: Kinder Scout, challenging terrain, breathtaking views
4 Winnats Pass
Route Recommendation: Start in Castleton and cycle up Winnats Pass. This iconic climb offers a challenging gradient and stunning scenery.
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 2 miles (one way)
Highlights: Limestone gorge, challenging climb, spectacular views
5 Hassop Station Café & Cycle Hire
Route Recommendation: Rent a bike from Hassop Station and explore the Monsal Trail. Enjoy a meal at the café before or after your ride.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: Flexible
Highlights: Monsal Trail, bike hire, café
6 Manifold Track
Route Recommendation: Start at Hulme End and follow the Manifold Track to Waterhouses. This 8-mile family-friendly route is mostly flat and traffic-free.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 8 miles (one way)
Highlights: Manifold Valley, flat terrain, picnic spots
7 Bakewell to Chatsworth Tour
Route Recommendation: Join a guided tour from Bakewell to Chatsworth House. This scenic ride includes bike hire, a knowledgeable guide, and entry to Chatsworth House.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 10 miles (round trip)
Highlights: Bakewell, Chatsworth House, guided tour
8 Derwent Valley Heritage Way
Route Recommendation: Follow the Derwent Valley Heritage Way for a scenic multi-day cycling holiday. This route offers a mix of cycling and cultural experiences.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 55 miles (one way)
Highlights: River Derwent, historic sites, charming villages
9 High Peak Trail
Route Recommendation: Start at Cromford and cycle to Dowlow. This 17-mile trail offers stunning views of the White Peak landscape and interesting landmarks.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 17 miles (one way)
Highlights: Cromford Canal, Middleton Top, scenic views
10 Hope Valley Circular
Route Recommendation: Start and end in the village of Hope. This 20-mile loop takes you through Castleton and Edale, offering a mix of road and off-road cycling.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 20 miles (round trip)
Highlights: Castleton, Edale, picturesque villages
Tips for Cycling in the Peak District
Plan Your Route: Always plan your route in advance and ensure it matches your fitness level and experience. The Peak District offers a wide range of routes, so there's something for everyone.
Check the Weather: The weather in the Peak District can change rapidly. Check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for all conditions.
Wear Appropriate Gear: Wear a helmet, carry a repair kit, and dress in layers to adjust to changing weather. Good quality cycling clothing can make a big difference in comfort.
Stay Hydrated and Fueled: Carry enough water and snacks for your ride. There are plenty of cafés and pubs along the routes where you can stop for a break.
Respect the Environment: Stay on marked trails, take your litter home, and respect the local wildlife and landscape. The Peak District is a protected area, and it’s important to preserve its natural beauty.
Safety First: Always ride safely and within your limits. Let someone know your route and expected return time, especially if you're cycling alone.
Conclusion
Cycling in the Peak District offers an unparalleled experience for riders of all levels. From the scenic Monsal Trail to the challenging Jacobs Ladder Trail, there's a route for everyone. The stunning landscapes, diverse trails, and charming villages make the Peak District a cyclist's paradise. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly ride, a challenging mountain bike trail, or a scenic road cycling route, the Peak District has it all.
From the iconic climbs of Winnats Pass to the family-friendly Manifold Track, each route offers its own unique experience and breathtaking views. With excellent cycle hire options, guided tours, and a range of accommodation choices, the Peak District is the perfect destination for a cycling holiday. Explore the beauty of this national park on two wheels and create unforgettable memories on the trails of the Peak District.
