The best traffic-free bike rides around Dale Dike Reservoir

There are 10 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Dale Dike Reservoir featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of distances and elevations, ensuring options for different fitness levels.

Yes, this guide includes 1 easy no-traffic road cycling route. While many routes in the area are moderate, you can find options with minimal elevation gain, often on well-made tracks and country lanes, perfect for a relaxed ride. For example, some loops from Low Bradfield are known for being accessible.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Dale Dike Reservoir primarily feature paved surfaces, country lanes, and well-made tracks. This makes them ideal for road bikes. You'll experience a mix of waterside paths, woodlands, and open countryside, with some routes incorporating segments that are unpaved for varied scenery.

Yes, many of the routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Langsett Reservoir – Langsett Reservoir loop from Stocksbridge is a moderate circular route covering over 22 km.

The routes vary significantly. You can find moderate rides like the Green Moor Climb – Langsett Reservoir loop from Stocksbridge, which is about 24.6 km and takes around 1 hour 20 minutes. Longer, more challenging options, such as the Strines and Sugworth Road – Damflask Reservoir loop from Stocksbridge, can be over 50 km and take more than 2 hours 50 minutes to complete.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.67 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil, low-traffic country lanes, the beautiful Peak District scenery, and the picturesque views over the reservoirs. The varied terrain and opportunities for wildlife spotting also contribute to a highly enjoyable experience.

Yes, the nearby villages of High and Low Bradfield offer traditional English pubs like The Old Horns Inn and The Plough Inn. These establishments are known for their food and atmosphere, often featuring outdoor terraces with scenic views, making them ideal spots for a break after your ride.

You'll enjoy picturesque waterside paths around Dale Dike and other reservoirs like Strines, Damflask, and Agden. The routes offer beautiful Peak District scenery, with opportunities to climb west towards Derwent Edge and Back Tor for expansive views. The Royd Moor Viewpoint – Langsett Reservoir loop from Stocksbridge is one route that includes a viewpoint.

While specific parking locations are not detailed for every route, the area around Dale Dike Reservoir and nearby villages like Low Bradfield generally offers parking options. It's advisable to check local parking availability for your chosen starting point.

The area is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for cycling, with longer daylight hours and generally drier conditions. Autumn provides stunning foliage, while winter rides can be crisp and quiet, though some paths might be muddy or uneven in parts.

Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there is 1 difficult route included in this guide. These routes often feature significant elevation gains, such as the Burbage Moor Hill Climb – Fiddler's Elbow Climb loop from Fulwood, which includes a substantial climb and covers over 25 km.