The best MTB trails around Ellastone

There are over 40 mountain bike trails available around Ellastone, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. These include 11 easy routes, 29 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Mountain biking around Ellastone is characterized by rolling hills, tranquil wooded valleys, and access to disused railway lines, particularly as you venture towards the wider Peak District. You'll find serene rural settings, haymeadows, and sections of easy-going paths like the Limestone Way, alongside more challenging terrain in the nearby Peak District.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. A great option is the Churnet Valley cyclepath loop, which is 12.5 miles (20.1 km) long and follows a dedicated cyclepath. Another accessible route is the Ashbourne Tunnel – Ashbourne Tunnel loop from Ashbourne CP, covering 14.4 km with minimal elevation gain.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Ellastone are designed as circular routes. For instance, the popular Churnet Valley cyclepath loop and the Manifold Valley Trail – The Manifold Way cycle trail loop from Wardlow Turn are both excellent circular options, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

The area around Ellastone is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore the tranquil Dove Valley, the Weaver Hills with their elegant views, or the ancient woodlands of Calwich Park. Nearby attractions include the iconic Thorpe Cloud, the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove, and the intriguing Reynard’s Cave and Natural Arch.

While Ellastone itself is known for its gentle landscapes, the wider region offers natural water features. You can find a Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary, which can be a scenic stop if your route takes you through that area.

Many trails in the Ellastone area and the wider Peak District are dog-friendly, especially those on bridleways and disused railway lines. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock or in conservation areas. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking around Ellastone, with warmer weather and vibrant landscapes. Spring brings carpets of bluebells in woods like Calwich Park and kingcups in marshland areas. However, some trails, especially those in the wider Peak District, can be muddy and slippery after rain, so always check trail conditions regardless of the season.

Ellastone village itself has local amenities, and the surrounding area, particularly towns like Ashbourne, offers various pubs and eateries. Many routes, especially those that follow disused railway lines or pass through villages, will have options for refreshments nearby. For example, the Churnet Valley Cycle Path – Ramblers Retreat loop from Denstone passes close to places where you can find food and drink.

The mountain bike trails around Ellastone are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 60 reviews. Users frequently praise the serene rural setting, the variety of terrain from easy cycle paths to more challenging routes, and the access to picturesque valleys and historic landscapes.

Yes, Ellastone village is part of a conservation area, which helps preserve its distinctive character and historic buildings. This contributes to the unspoiled natural beauty of the area. You can find more information about the conservation area at heritagecheck.co.uk.

While Ellastone itself offers more gentle routes, its proximity to the Peak District National Park provides access to more challenging options. Routes like the Ashbourne Tunnel – Istrian stone hut at Parsley Hay loop from Ashbourne CP, at 40.9 miles (65.8 km), lead through varied Peak District landscapes and offer a more demanding ride. The wider Peak District also features graded trails, including red-graded single tracks, for advanced riders.