The best gravel rides around Hollinsclough

There are over 35 gravel bike trails available around Hollinsclough, offering a wide range of options for exploring the Staffordshire Moorlands and the Peak District National Park.

The trails around Hollinsclough offer a diverse range of difficulties. While there are a few easier routes, the majority of the 36 available trails are rated as difficult, with 27 falling into this category. These often feature challenging climbs and varied terrain, including rocky sections and narrow trails, making them suitable for experienced riders. There are also 7 moderate routes for those looking for a balanced challenge.

Yes, while many routes are challenging, the wider area accessible from Hollinsclough includes former railway lines like the Tissington Trail, which offer scenic, traffic-free gravel riding suitable for families. These routes provide a gentler experience compared to the more rugged moorland trails.

Gravel biking in Hollinsclough offers incredibly varied terrain. You'll encounter dramatic limestone hills like Parkhouse Hill and Chrome Hill, moorland, gritstone edges, and ancient packhorse routes. The trails range from smooth gravel tracks and forest paths to more challenging, rocky sections and bridleways, providing a true Peak District experience.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Hollinsclough are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the challenging Tissington Trail – High Peak Trail loop from Flagg CP is a popular circular option, covering over 69 km.

The trails often pass through stunning landscapes. You might encounter the dramatic limestone summits of Parkhouse Hill and Chrome Hill, often called 'The Dragon's Back'. The area is also rich in water features. You can find beautiful lakes such as Errwood Reservoir and Trentabank Reservoir, as well as picturesque waterfalls like Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls and Deep Clough Waterfall.

While Hollinsclough is a small village, parking is generally available. Many routes, such as the Istrian stone hut at Parsley Hay – View of Harboro Rocks loop from Hartington Middle Quarter CP, start from designated car parks in nearby villages or trailheads, providing convenient access to the trails.

Hollinsclough village itself has a chapel hall that transforms into a lively tearoom on weekends and bank holidays, offering a place to refresh. Additionally, the nearby village of Longnor, just 2 miles away, provides access to shops and pubs for post-ride refreshments.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning views of the Peak District's dramatic hills, and the extensive network of ancient packhorse routes and bridleways that make for engaging rides.

The Peak District offers great riding year-round, but spring and autumn often provide the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Winter riding is possible but be prepared for potentially wet, muddy, or icy conditions, especially on higher moorland sections.

Yes, Hollinsclough serves as an excellent base for exploring the White Peak, which includes the Tissington Trail. Several routes incorporate sections of this popular former railway line, offering scenic and traffic-free gravel riding. An example is the Bradbourne Brook Ford – Tissington Trail loop from Parkhouse Hill.