Buxton, the former Roman town of Aqvae Arnemetiae, is the gateway to the beautiful Peak District and start point for a fantastic loop that links to the town of Bakewell. This route takes in some stunning scenery and seriously fun sections of road as you head southwards from Buxton before cutting east through the edge of the Derbyshire Dales and on up to Bakewell. Rivers, woodland, quaint villages and rolling countryside: this ride has got the lot.

Keeping the railway line to your left, head south out of Buxton on the A515. Follow the roman road upwards towards Back Dale and Brierlow Bar, stopping at Hitter Hill to take in the stunning views. You will then descend through Glutton Bridge and continue on towards Longnor, over the River Manifold and to Bridge End. Enjoy the fast descent through Hulme End before starting the climb up towards Hartington. Just outside the little village of Newhaven you will pass over the Pennine Bridleway and cycle through long dale national nature reserve towards Grangemill, Winster and up to Bakewell.

After you’ve stopped for a Bakewell tart, head back towards Longnor cycling along the River Wye. From Longnor you can retrace your steps back to Buxton.

Start point: Buxton railway station
Grid reference: SK 05922 73715
Postcode: SK17 6AQ
Total distance: 74km
Total elevation: 1273m
Max elevation: 400m

To see a rough map of this route, click here.