The best cycling routes around Strines Reservoir

The terrain around Strines Reservoir is characterized by challenging climbs and varied surfaces. You'll encounter green lanes, glorious climbs, and road surfaces ranging from paved to unpaved. Notable features include the notorious Strines Road (Mortimer Road) with its steep tarmac stretches, and gradients up to 20% on climbs like the one from Ewden Beck.

Cyclists can enjoy superb views across Strines Reservoir and other nearby bodies of water such as Dale Dyke, Broomhead, Ladybower, Derwent, and Howden Reservoirs. The region also features stunning heather moorland, peaceful pine plantations like Wigtwizzle Plantation, and shady beech woodlands. You might even spot grazing highland cattle and trickling streams.

Yes, there are several. You can discover historic structures like the Brogging House, dating back to 1715, near the Strines Reservoir dam wall. Another notable sight is Boots Folly (Sugworth Tower), a 45-foot high, Grade Two listed structure built in 1927. The historic Strines Inn, established in 1275, is also a popular stop.

The routes offer a range of difficulty levels. Out of over 80 routes, you'll find options from moderate to difficult. There are 14 easy routes, 31 moderate routes, and 35 difficult routes, providing choices for various fitness levels.

Route lengths vary, but many popular touring cycling routes are between 13 to 25 miles (21 to 40 km). For example, the Rivelin Valley Bridleway – Crosspool Tawny Owl Tree loop from Hollow Meadows is 13.1 miles (21.0 km), while the Ewden Bank Climb – Langsett Reservoir loop from Ashopton is 24.2 miles (38.9 km).

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Blindside Climb – View of the Peak District loop from Ashopton and the Ladybower, Derwent and Howden Reservoirs loop.

The region offers beautiful scenery year-round, but the heather moorland is particularly stunning when in bloom. Be aware that winter conditions can bring challenges, especially on higher ground and exposed sections. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, there are several welcoming establishments. The historic Strines Inn is a popular stop, offering home-cooked meals and great views. In the nearby villages of High and Low Bradfield, you'll find The Old Horns Inn, known as one of England's best pubs, and The Plough Inn, which features an open fire and a large beer garden.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 290 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging climbs, the rewarding reservoir views, and the diverse natural beauty of the heather moorland and woodlands. The sense of achievement after tackling the rigorous terrain is also frequently mentioned.

While specific parking areas for each route are not detailed here, the region is popular with cyclists, and you can typically find parking in villages or designated spots near trailheads. It's advisable to check parking options for your chosen starting point in advance.

While many routes feature challenging climbs, there are 14 routes classified as 'easy' that might be more suitable for families or those seeking a less strenuous ride. Always check the route details and difficulty before setting out with children.

There are over 80 touring cycling routes available around Strines Reservoir, offering a wide variety of distances, difficulties, and scenic experiences for cyclists.