Important notice: This is an archived version of the Peak District National Park Authority's website. It was last updated on 2 August 2011. The current version can be found at www.peakdistrict.gov.uk. This old version of the website will remain available until all content and functionality has been transferred across to the new website, after which it will be switched off.

Red sunset behind a walker

Visiting

Make the most of your visit to the glorious Peak District.

Cycling

The Peak District’s off-road network of cycling trails is ideal for family cycling and there are cycle hire centres offering bikes to suit all ages and abilities. There are miles of quiet country lanes to discover. Pretty villages, superb views, interesting history, fascinating wildlife and geology - it's all here for you to enjoy. For experienced mountain bikers, the remote moorland bridleways can provide more of a challenge. Cycling is a fun, healthy way to explore the spectacular countryside of the Peak District.

cycling on the Monsal trail

Why not try:

  • The dedicated 58 miles (93km) off-road cycle trails in the Peak District are ideal for family cycling and great days out at any time of the year
  • Riding through the newly opened tunnels on the brilliant Monsal Trail
  • White Peak Trails and Cycle Routes – A network of 70 miles of relaxing cycling in spectacular countryside
  • Cycle touring - with it's diverse scenery and extensive network of quiet lanes and roads, the Peak District is ideal for touring.- 9 journeys of discovery by bike - downloadable day or half day routes offering the best of the Peak District on two wheels
  • The Trans Pennine Trail which passes through the north of the Peak District on its journey from Liverpool to Hull with plenty of interest on the way
  • The wide range of off road routes in the Upper Derwent Valley
  • Check out the Black Harry trails a series of routes suitable for mountain-biking in the Longstone Edge area of the Peak District National Park.
  • Stop off at a village cafe or stay at one of the accommodation providers that cater for cyclists http://www.ctc-maps.org.uk/cyclists_welcome/.
  • There are organised cycling activities and events to suit all ages and abilities in the Peak District

cycle hire centre at Parsley Hay

Take the next step:

A selection of Peak District cycling and mountain biking books are available from visitor centres and our online shop. To help you plan your route download the free Derbyshire Cycle Map.

If you are new to cycling British Cycling, the governing body for cycling in the UK, has some useful pages on how to get started.

If you don't have your own bike, why not hire one? The Peak Cycle Hire centres give access to some of the country’s best cycle routes, many completely traffic free and surrounded by spectacular scenery. Helpful staff and a range of bikes are available to suit all sizes, ages and abilities including tandems, trikes, hand cranked tricycles, child buggies, baby seats and powered mobility scooters.

Explore new routes and consider starting your ride from home. The Peak District enjoys an extensive. network of quite country lanes Bikes can be carried on trains on the Hope Valley line which has handy links with other services, enabling you to have a full day out exploring the area without using the car.

Useful links:
Pedal Peak District - the Peak District National Park's new cycling project
www.ctc.org.uk - Cyclists Touring Club - the UK's national cyclists' organisation
www.sustrans.org.uk - information on the National Cycle Network
www.britishcycling.org.uk - clubs and facilities, competitions, events and advice for all types of cycling
www.imba.org.uk - mountain biking information
www.bikeability.org.uk - national cycle training scheme for adults and children - find a trainer near you
www.bike-easy.org.uk - top tips to get you started

Download Visitor Guide

visitor guide 2010
Visitor Guide 2010 (2.8MB) Adobe pdf document

What do you think?

Let us know what you think about the new visitor guide by completing our online survey at peakdistrict.gov.uk/yourshout