Hills, dales and trails cycle route

About

Hills, dales and trails cycle route

Medium route for leisure cyclists

Distance: 9.5 miles short loop; 23 miles full loop

Take a journey through the hills and limestone dales of the Peak District and enjoy traditional villages, medieval settlements, copper mines and a disappearing river.

The High Peak trail, once part of the Cromford and High Peak Railway, takes you north from Parsley hay. A picturesque gated road leads you past the footpath to Pilsbury Castle, one of the finest examples of a medieval motte and bailey castle in Derbyshire.

Cycle down the Dove Valley to reach the charming village of Hartington, once famed for the production of Stilton cheese.  Then a short section of the former Leek and Manifold light Railway – (built to serve surrounding dairy farms 1904 – 1934) passing the quiet hamlet of Ecton, the site of one of the most productive copper mines in England during the 18th century.

 The river Manifold makes it way past Wetton Mill, then disappears underground during the summer months. Look out for Thors Cave, believed to have been occupied by humans as long ago as 10,000 years.

Take a breather in Alstonefield village before re-crossing the River Dove and a hard climb back to join the Tissington Trail at Alsop. As you travel back to Parsley Hay enjoy the views of rolling White Peak countryside and look out for Hartington signal box as you near the end of your journey.

Download the pdf below.