10 routes to try on two wheels 
We’ve found some superb cycling routes for you to enjoy, along with something really unique – a vintage cycling festival! Helmets at the ready…
1. Eroica Britannia
Visit England named it “One of the Best Value Family Festivals in the UK” – and now Eroica Britannia is back for another three days of celebrating the very best of Great British. There’s fun for all the family to be had in the beautiful Peak District National Park with an incredible line up including live music, entertainment, vintage sales, shops and more. Dress to impress the judges in the Best in Show vintage fancy dress competition – plus, don’t miss the spectacular spectacle of Eroica Britannia’s famous pre-1987 bike ride. A whopping 3,000 adventurers will be taking part, dressed of course in their vintage best, travelling on pre-1987 bikes throughout the glorious landscapes and villages of the Peak District.
Find out more at: http://eroicabritannia.co.uk/
2. Hayfield to Hope
Discover the delights of the High Peak on this undulating 24 mile cycle ride from Hayfield to Hope. Starting from the Sett Valley Trail, this route winds its way over some glorious hills and finishes at Hope Valley Road – breathtaking in more ways than one.
The route can be downloaded from: http://pedalnorth.com/content/hayfield-hope
3. High Peak Trail – (for all abilities)
Take the scenic route and avoid the traffic on this 17.5 mile bike ride. Suitable for all ages and abilities, you’ll witness fantastic views of the Peak District countryside – why not stop off at one of the many picnic benches along the way for a bite to eat? Our favourite part of the High Peak Trail spans 6.5 miles from Middleton Top to Minninglow – with nothing but the hills surrounding you, it’s ideal for peace and tranquillity.
The route can be downloaded from: http://peakdistrictcycleways.co.uk/cycle-route.php?route=HPT1
4. Black Harry Trails
At the heart of the Peak District you’ll find the Black Harry Trails, offering spectacular horse-riding and mountain-biking routes to explore. View the remains of former creatures and plants which once populated the area, as you cycle through the beautiful High Peak countryside.
The route can be downloaded from: http://peakdistrict.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0015/122244/blackharry.pdf
5. Glossop Circular – (for varying abilities)
The town of Glossop is situated just outside the border of the Peak District, and is handy for those in Manchester and Stockport looking for a countryside cycle ride. Choose from three directions for stunning views of Ladybower Reservoir, Woodhead Reservoir or Kinder Reservoir. Keen cyclists will love the endless cycling routes on offer here.
Routes can be downloaded from: http://wheelie-good-guys.co.uk/cycling-sheffield/peak-district-cycling/
6. Chatsworth Loop – (challenging)
Are you up for the challenge of Chatsworth Loop? Cycle this 27.5 mile route, tackling difficult climbs along the way. It starts and finishes at Parsley Hay Visitor Centre and Cycle Hire – ideal if you’re in need of a bike. Take care if you head along this route in icy conditions – road bikes will not be suitable if this is the case.
The route can be downloaded from: http://www.peakdistrictcycling.co.uk/chatsworth-loop/
7. Ladybower Loop
Grab your bike and set off on this 16.4 mile route around Ladybower for stunning scenic views of the surrounding countryside. If you take the loop in a clockwise direction, you’ll get all of the difficult climbs out of the way and reward yourself with a delightful descent at the end. And if you like it, why not do two laps?
The route can be downloaded from: http://pedalnorth.com/content/ladybower-loop
8. Mam Tor
This 12.4 mile circuit takes you around Hope Valley in a figure of eight. With sharp climbs and descents, it’s one for the brave-hearted – are you up for the challenge? Hang on to those handlebars as you descend Cave Dale; you’ll need a tight grip!
The route can be downloaded from: http://pedalnorth.com/content/mam-tor
9. Tissington Trail – (moderately difficult)
Ride the classic Tissington Trail to High Peak Junction for rewarding views of the Peak District. It’s trail all the way but the many steep climbs and descents make this route moderately difficult so be prepared to do lots of heavy breathing – the views make it all worthwhile though.
The route can be downloaded from: http://www.cycle-route.com/routes/Tissington_Trail_to_High_Peak_Junction-Cycle-Route-3670.html
10. Monsal Trail – (for all abilities)
At just 8.5 miles long, Monsal Trail is the ideal route to enjoy with the whole family. Leading you along the former London to Manchester railway line, you’ll also pass old quarries and nature reserves. Don’t have a bike? That’s not a problem either – simply head into the Monsal Trail Cycle Hire, situated at Hassop Station.
The route can be downloaded from: http://www.peakdistrictcycleways.co.uk/cycle-route.php?route=mont1
The Peak District National Park has over 65 miles of off-road cycling trails and an abundance of more challenging routes. Details available from http://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/visiting/cycle/cycling-information/cyclingnearyou
The National Park Cycle Hire Centres offer a wide variety of cycles for hire suitable for all ages and abilities including a range for the less able including tricycles, tandem trike, hand crank cycles, wheelchair bikes and mobility cycles. http://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/visiting/cycle/cycle-hire-centres/cyclesforhire
