There is a wealth of cycling around Buxton. Much of the family friendly cycling takes place along the trails which follow the tracks of former local railways. Routes such as the Tissington Trail and High Peak Trail. Both start only a few miles to the south of Buxton at Parsley Hay (opposite the junction of the Youlgreave road with the A515), and offer excellent traffic-free cross-country routes which pass close to many pretty villages.
It is also possible to make quite pleasant circuits from Biggin and Hartington using the trail as an outward route and returning along fairly quiet country lanes - something which is not always feasible elsewhere.
The Sett Valley Trail runs from Hayfield to New Mills, also along the route of the former railway. It is mostly fairly level cycling with some nice views, though much of the area is quite built-up.
Further north, the Upper Derwent Valley is a popular venue for cyclists. A simple route from the Fairholmes centre up the valley following the small road alongside the reservoirs is a pleasant ride - especially on Sundays when most traffic is banned. A circuit of the reservoirs is also a fine excursion.
Finally, in the south of the region, the area around Carsington Reservoir offers good opportunities for cycle rides. There is a marked-out trail around the reservoir which follows a mixture of cycle ways and small roads.
Maps
Harveys Maps - http://www.harveymaps.co.uk/
Ordnance Survey - 1:25,000 Maps - Explorer Series
Ordnance Survey - 1:50,000 Maps - Landranger Series
More information
Cycling routes (http://www.cressbrook.co.uk/outdoors/cycling.php)
Peak District National Park Cycle Hire (http://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/index/visiting/cycle.htm)
Bakewell Cycle Hire Cycle Hire (http://www.bchire.co.uk)
Buxton Cycling Club (http://www.buxtoncc.org.uk/)
Pennine Cycleway. (http://www.cycle-routes.org/penninecycleway/route_details.htm) |
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