Cycling in the Peak District: Better Than You Think

Most people come to the Peak District to walk. Cyclists often arrive as an afterthought and leave as converts. The reason is the trail network: a combination of former railway lines converted into flat, traffic-free cycling paths that cut through some of the best scenery in the national park. No hills to terrify you, no cars to dodge, and views that appear from around every corner.

That said, the Peak District also has serious road cycling for those who want climbs. Both approaches to cycling here are genuinely excellent.

The Monsal Trail

The Monsal Trail is the Peak District's star cycling route. It runs for around 13 kilometres between Coombs Road near Bakewell and Topley Pike near Buxton, passing through the limestone dales of the White Peak.

The route follows the former Midland Railway line, which means it is almost entirely flat and surfaced, making it suitable for families, beginners, and people who want to eat a Bakewell pudding without immediately suffering for it.

The highlight of the Monsal Trail is the tunnels. When the railway closed, the tunnels were originally sealed off, and walkers and cyclists had to detour around them. They reopened in 2011 and now the trail passes through six tunnels, including the Headstone Tunnel and Cressbrook Tunnel. The contrast between the bright limestone dales and the cool, echoing darkness of the tunnels is one of those simple things that makes a day feel memorable.

The Monsal Head viaduct, which you can see from the famous viewpoint above, runs below the trail itself. The view from the viaduct when you cycle across it is different from the view above, and just as good in its own way.

The trail is busy on sunny weekends. Early mornings and weekdays are considerably more peaceful.

The Tissington Trail

The Tissington Trail is the Monsal Trail's quieter sibling. Running for around 21 kilometres between Ashbourne in the south and Parsley Hay in the north, it connects to the High Peak Trail at the northern end, giving you the option of a longer ride.

Tissington itself is one of the most photogenic villages in the Peak District. The village's well dressings in early May are famous, and the estate-owned stone cottages lining the main street look like something from a film set. Cycling through it on the trail is a pleasure.

The Tissington Trail is generally less busy than the Monsal Trail and a good choice if you want more tranquillity. The southern end near Ashbourne is accessible to visitors who are not basing themselves in the central Peaks.

The High Peak Trail

Worth a mention alongside the other two: the High Peak Trail runs across the limestone plateau from Parsley Hay (where it meets the Tissington Trail) to the Cromford Canal near Matlock. It follows the route of the Cromford and High Peak Railway, one of the earliest railway lines in England. The surface is rougher in places and the gradient more varied, but the plateau views reward the effort.

Combining sections of the Tissington and High Peak trails gives you a proper day ride through central White Peak country.

Where to Hire a Bike

Bike hire is well organised along the trail network. The main operators are:

  • Parsley Hay Cycle Hire (on the High Peak and Tissington Trails): One of the most popular hire points, right where the two trails meet. Electric bikes are available.
  • Monsal Trail Cycle Hire at Blackwell Mill: Positioned near the Chee Dale end of the Monsal Trail.
  • Hassop Station Bike Hire: Sits on the Monsal Trail near Bakewell, in a converted Victorian station that now also has a cafe and bookshop. A very pleasant starting point.
  • Ashbourne Cycle Hire: At the southern trailhead of the Tissington Trail, run by Peak Cycle Hire.

Electric bikes are available at most hire centres. If hills are a concern or you are covering a longer distance, an e-bike makes the day entirely different. Book ahead for summer weekends, particularly for electric options, which sell out.

Road Cycling

For those who want more challenge, the Peak District has road cycling that will test anyone. Winnats Pass near Castleton is one of the most dramatic climbs in England: steep, narrow, enclosed by towering limestone cliffs. Snake Pass over the Dark Peak is a longer slog with enormous views. The roads through Monsal Dale and Dovedale are also popular with road cyclists.

The downside is traffic on weekend mornings. Narrow lanes and tourist vehicles require care and patience. Early starts help considerably.

A Few Practical Notes

  • Most trails are shared with pedestrians. Keep speeds reasonable and give way to walkers, especially families with children.
  • Helmets are not legally required in the UK but make sense, particularly if children are involved.
  • Bring more water than you think you need, especially on the exposed High Peak plateau.
  • The trails do not have much shade in summer. Sunscreen applies.

The ConciseTravel Peak District guide covers the best cycling loops, hire centre opening times, and how to combine cycling days with other activities in the national park.