Edale Road to Pennine Way Start
Edale Road to Pennine Way Start
Highlight • Viewpoint
Edale Road to Pennine Way Start
Cycling
4.8
(66)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
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Tips
August 4, 2022
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Edale Road to Pennine Way Start
4.9
(15)
227
riders
27.9km
02:01
530m
530m
This difficult touring cycling loop from Bamford takes you through the dramatic landscapes of the Peak District National Park. You'll cover 17.3 miles (27.9 km) with a significant 1745 feet (532 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours to complete. The route features demanding climbs and panoramic vistas across the Hope Valley, including stunning views of reservoirs like Ladybower. The highlight is Winnats Pass, a narrow, winding road carved through a steep limestone gorge, offering dramatic scenery with towering steep walls as you ascend. Expect diverse terrain, mostly paved, but with some unpaved segments that can be challenging. You will also encounter impressive sights like Mam Tor from the top of the moor.
Be prepared for a challenging experience on this loop, which is considered a hard bike ride requiring very good fitness. Winnats Pass itself is a legendary climb, 1.8 to 1.9 kilometers long with an average gradient of 11% and maximum gradients reaching 20% to 28.9%. It's so steep that stopping may make it impossible to restart, demanding continuous pedaling. Be aware that Winnats Pass can be busy with motor traffic, and the narrow road combined with steep inclines can feel crowded. You should also be prepared for potential strong winds, which can make the climb even tougher. It is advisable to check your bike beforehand, especially brakes and gears, and carry essentials like water, a map, and a repair kit.
This loop is notable for offering a quintessential Peak District cycling experience. Winnats Pass is a legendary and brutal climb, famous for its extreme gradients and its history as a hill climb event venue, having hosted the National Hill Climb Championship multiple times. The geological features of Winnats Pass, particularly the limestone gorge, provide a truly unique and dramatic backdrop for cycling. The route is a popular choice for local touring cyclists and those looking for a significant challenge.
4.9
(14)
128
riders
This difficult touring bicycle loop from Edale covers 26.8 miles (43.1 km) with a significant 2298 feet (701 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 7 minutes to complete. You'll experience a diverse range of terrain, from the gentle gravel tracks along Ladybower Reservoir to the extremely challenging ascent of Winnats Pass. Winnats Pass itself is a dramatic sight, winding through a steep limestone gorge with rock faces on either side of the road. From its summit, you can enjoy panoramic vistas across the Hope Valley and spot Mam Tor. The route showcases the varied landscapes of the Peak District, including iconic reservoirs and dramatic gritstone edges.
Be prepared for a hard bike ride requiring very good fitness, especially for Winnats Pass, which features an average gradient of over 10% and maximums nearing 29%. If you stop on the steepest ramps, restarting can be nearly impossible. The road through Winnats Pass can be busy with motor traffic, and the steep inclines might cause cars to struggle. While the Ladybower section is flatter, expect puddle-filled potholes during winter. Some sections of country lanes and trails may also include unpaved or rougher surfaces with boulders.
This route is notable for incorporating Winnats Pass, considered one of the best climbs in the UK for cyclists seeking a significant challenge. You will also pass the Derwent Dam, a stunning neo-Gothic construction with historical significance as the training ground for the RAF's 617 Squadron, the "Dambusters," during World War II. During periods of low water levels, you might even glimpse the remains of a flooded village within Ladybower Reservoir.
5
riders
63.9km
04:40
1,110m
1,110m
This difficult touring bicycle route, the Edale, Bakewell & Chatsworth loop from Hathersage, takes you through the classic Peak District landscape. You will cover 39.7 miles (63.9 km) with a significant elevation gain of 3641 feet (1110 metres), typically completed in about 4 hours and 40 minutes. Expect a challenging ride with varied terrain, from rolling roads to tough climbs like Mam Nick, which offers incredible panoramic views. You will pass by the majestic Chatsworth House, nestled in its valley, and enjoy expansive views over open moorland and woodland trails. Be ready for sections that might be unpaved, muddy, or rocky, even though most surfaces are paved.
To begin your journey, you can find parking in Hathersage, which serves as the starting point for this loop. The route is best enjoyed when you have ample daylight to complete the full 4 hours and 40 minutes of cycling. Remember to carry enough water and snacks, though you will find cafes and other facilities in towns like Bakewell and Edale along the way. Always check local conditions before you set out, especially concerning weather and trail surface changes.
This route is a prime example of the diverse cycling opportunities within the Peak District National Park. It combines the natural beauty of the Hope Valley near Edale with the historical grandeur of Chatsworth House. The varied terrain and significant climbs make it a notable challenge for experienced touring cyclists. This loop offers a comprehensive tour of some of the region's most iconic sights and landscapes, making it a standout option for those seeking a demanding ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 230 m
Weather
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Monday 15 June
20°C
11°C
27 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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