4.4
(58)
307
riders
61
rides
Mountain biking around Longsdon offers diverse landscapes within the Staffordshire Moorlands, providing varied terrain for riders. The area features a mix of natural attractions, including the scenic Rudyard Lake and the distinctive rocky outcrops of The Roaches. Its proximity to the Peak District contributes to a landscape that ranges from tranquil lakeside paths to more challenging mountainous routes. This region provides a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking different levels of mountain biking experiences.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
5.0
(2)
10
riders
51.8km
03:29
810m
810m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.6
(7)
12
riders
26.9km
01:38
110m
110m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4
riders
71.1km
04:52
1,090m
1,090m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
9
riders
53.2km
03:11
270m
270m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
7
riders
15.7km
01:03
130m
130m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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a short sharp climb up over the top and a pleasant run down the other side towards leek
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Regular passenger services on this line ended in 1954, but excursions continued until 1963. Freight continued until October of that year, the track to Ashbourne finally being lifted in 1964. The station buildings were demolished after closure but the typical LNWR signal box has been preserved as a visitor centre.
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Great egg butty
1
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Part of the Leek Branch of the Caldon Canal the pool allows boats to turn around before the tunnel. The Churnet Way long distance walking trail and NCN 559 follow the canal towpath past the pool.
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This is a nice easy canal side circular walk starting at the hollybush inn denford
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Well maintained and very smooth path. Must be great to ride in winter
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Definitely recommend walking this short section in both directions, up and down
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There are over 60 mountain bike trails around Longsdon, offering a wide variety of options for riders of all skill levels.
The trails around Longsdon cater to various abilities. You'll find approximately 31 easy routes, 30 moderate routes, and 1 challenging route for experienced riders.
The terrain around Longsdon is quite diverse, ranging from tranquil lakeside paths to more challenging mountainous routes. You'll encounter a mix of mostly paved surfaces with some unpaved segments, especially closer to the Peak District. Expect rural trails and routes near features like Rudyard Lake and The Roaches.
Yes, many trails offer scenic views and pass by notable natural features. You can explore routes that take you past Rudyard Lake, offering pleasant lakeside scenery. Other trails venture near The Roaches, a distinctive rocky outcrop, and you might even encounter highlights like Doxey Pool or Lud's Church.
Yes, Longsdon offers several easy mountain bike trails suitable for families. An excellent option is the Cheddleton Flint Mill – Hazlehurst Aqueduct loop from Cheddleton, which is an easy 16.7-mile route featuring historical industrial landmarks and waterside scenery. Another easy choice is the Leek Tunnel Pool – Caena's Well loop from Leek.
The mountain bike trails around Longsdon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 300 mountain bikers have explored the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes and the options available for different skill levels.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the area offers routes like the Istrian stone hut at Parsley Hay – Ashbourne Tunnel loop from Leek. This difficult 44.2-mile trail leads through rural landscapes and past the Ashbourne Tunnel, typically taking almost 5 hours to complete.
Yes, Rudyard Lake is a prominent natural feature in the area, and several cycling routes incorporate it. While not explicitly listed as a mountain bike route in the guide data, the region research indicates that the lake offers an easy bike ride loop and is a scenic attraction mentioned in several cycling routes, including the 'Rudyard Lake Viewpoint – The Knott Inn loop from Rudyard'.
Longsdon's diverse landscapes can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Some unpaved segments, especially near Rudyard Lake, can become boggy after heavy rain, so checking local trail conditions is advisable, particularly in wetter months.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Longsdon are designed as loops. Examples include the popular Manifold Valley – Manifold Valley Trail loop from Leek, the easy Cheddleton Flint Mill – Hazlehurst Aqueduct loop from Cheddleton, and the challenging Istrian stone hut at Parsley Hay – Ashbourne Tunnel loop from Leek.
The Tittesworth Water Visitor Centre is a notable facility in the area, offering great views of The Roaches and potentially amenities. For other cafes, pubs, and accommodation, you'll find options in nearby villages like Longsdon itself, Leek, or Rudyard, especially around Rudyard Lake.
While specific public transport links directly to trailheads are not detailed, Longsdon is nestled in the Staffordshire Moorlands, and nearby towns like Leek may offer bus services. It's recommended to check local bus routes and schedules for connections to the general area, and plan your route accordingly, as some trail starts might require a short ride or walk from public transport stops.


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