The best cycling routes around Bakewell
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Touring cycling around Bakewell is centered within the Derbyshire White Peaks, characterized by rolling hills, limestone dales, and the tranquil River Wye. The area features a network of paths, including former railway lines converted into traffic-free routes. These trails traverse diverse terrain, offering both gentle riverside sections and more challenging ascents into the surrounding countryside. The landscape provides varied conditions for touring cyclists, from flat, accessible paths to routes with significant elevation changes.
Best touring cycling routes around Bakewell
- The most popular touring cycling route is Monsal Trail, a 16.4 miles (26.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 51 minutes to complete. This traffic-free path follows a former railway line, passing through tunnels and over viaducts.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is The Monsal Trail & Tideswell village loop from Bakewell Station — Peak District National Park, a difficult 23.0 miles (37.0 km) path. This route combines the Monsal Trail with climbs towards Tideswell village, offering varied terrain and views.
- Local touring cyclists also love the White Peak Loop: Monsal Trail and Eyam, a 21.2 miles (34.2 km) trail leading through limestone dales and historic villages, often completed in about 2 hours 27 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Bakewell is defined by limestone dales, rolling hills, and former railway lines. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy, traffic-free paths to more rigorous, multi-terrain routes.
- The routes in Bakewell are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 230 reviews. More than 4000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Bakewell's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.8
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2,853
riders
26.4km
01:51
390m
390m
Cycle the Monsal Trail, a moderate 16.4 miles (26.4 km) route that winds through the stunning Peak District National Park. You will gain 1278 feet (389 metres) over an estimated 1 hour and 51 minutes, following a disused railway line. As you pedal, you will pass through a series of six old railway tunnels, four of which are lit, and cross the impressive Headstone Viaduct, offering memorable views of Monsal Dale and the River Wye below.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Monsal Trail is known for its accessibility. You can find parking and cycle hire facilities at various points along the route, including Hassop Station and Blackwell Mill. While the tunnels are lit during daylight hours, carrying a bike light is a good idea for added visibility and comfort. This traffic-free path is suitable for families and offers a pleasant outing for touring cyclists.
This route stands out as a unique way to experience the Peak District's limestone dales, transforming a piece of railway history into an active outdoor adventure. The trail's flat, well-maintained surface makes it an inviting option for many abilities, allowing you to focus on the changing landscapes. It provides a distinct perspective on the region's natural beauty and engineering heritage, making it a popular choice for a leisurely ride.
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60
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Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure with The Monsal Trail & Tideswell village loop from Bakewell Station, covering 23.0 miles (37.0 km) and climbing 2196 feet (669 metres). This difficult route, which you can complete in about 2 hours and 59 minutes, blends the smooth, traffic-free Monsal Trail with the more undulating country lanes and paths around Tideswell. You will cycle through stunning limestone dales, enjoying dramatic views from the iconic Headstone Viaduct and exploring the scenic Wye Valley, before tackling the varied terrain towards picturesque villages like Litton and Cressbrook.
While the Monsal Trail section is known for its flat, firm surface, making it accessible for many, the Tideswell village loop introduces more demanding climbs and potentially uneven paths, requiring greater effort. The route starts from Bakewell Station, which offers facilities and is a good point to begin your journey. Consider the varied terrain when choosing your bicycle, as the Tideswell portion will test your bike and your legs more than the gentle gradients of the former railway line.
This route is notable for its rich railway heritage, taking you through several impressive, lit tunnels like Headstone, Cressbrook, Litton, and Chee Tor. You will also pass historical industrial sites such as Cressbrook Mill and Litton Mill, along with limekilns near Millers Dale Station. Combining the Monsal Trail with the Tideswell loop allows you to experience both the unique engineering marvels of the past and the charm of traditional Peak District villages.
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4.0
(5)
17
riders
34.2km
02:27
530m
530m
Prepare for a challenging touring bicycle adventure on the White Peak Loop: Monsal Trail and Eyam. This difficult route covers 21.2 miles (34.2 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 1744 feet (531 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 26 minutes to complete. You will experience a diverse landscape, from the smooth, traffic-free path of the Monsal Trail, passing through its lit railway tunnels and over the iconic Headstone Viaduct, to the more varied terrain surrounding the historic village of Eyam. Expect picturesque views as you cycle along the River Wye, winding through stunning limestone dales and past steep gorges, blending natural beauty with the region's rich railway heritage.
When planning your touring bicycle trip, consider starting from Bakewell, a popular town with general parking options, offering convenient access to the Monsal Trail section of the loop. You will find opportunities for refreshments and cycle hire in the charming market towns located along the way, making it easy to plan your stops. There are no specific permits or seasonal closures noted for this route, allowing for flexible planning throughout the year. Always check local conditions before you head out.
This loop offers a unique combination of the Peak District's natural beauty and its industrial past. The Monsal Trail itself is a testament to Victorian engineering, repurposing a former railway line into a scenic path. Beyond the railway heritage, the route takes you near Eyam, a village steeped in history, known for its remarkable story during the bubonic plague. This blend of accessible trail riding and historical exploration makes the White Peak Loop a notable experience in the region.
5.0
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12
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36.2km
02:32
600m
600m
This difficult 22.5-mile touring cycling route combines the flat Monsal Trail with challenging climbs around Chatsworth House in the Peak Di
69
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
Monsal trail great for walking and biking cafes on route check out the photos 📸
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Great views at the top old train lines bridge great views see the photos 📸
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railway bridge great views on the monsal trail Check out the photos 📸
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old railway bridges great views check out photos 📸
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old train station car park starts on the monsal trail Check out the photos 📸
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lovely cafe and benches here
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My favourite place on the Monsal trail, good for a rest and lunch, but also somewhere to leave the trail and link up mountain bike routes if that’s what you fancy
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Bakewell?
There are over 45 touring cycling routes around Bakewell, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 230 reviews.
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling around Bakewell?
Bakewell is nestled in the Derbyshire White Peaks, characterized by rolling hills, dramatic limestone dales, and the tranquil River Wye. You'll find a mix of terrain, from flat, traffic-free paths along former railway lines like the Monsal Trail, to more challenging ascents and multi-terrain routes on quiet lanes and bridleways in the surrounding countryside.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Bakewell offers several easy-going, traffic-free paths perfect for families and leisure cyclists. The most popular is the Monsal Trail, an 8.5-mile (16.4 km) route along a former railway line, which is largely flat and passes through tunnels and over viaducts with splendid views. There are 4 easy routes in total.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For those seeking a more rigorous experience, Bakewell provides 32 difficult routes. An example is The Monsal Trail & Tideswell village loop from Bakewell Station, a 37 km path that combines the Monsal Trail with climbs towards Tideswell village, offering varied terrain and views. Another challenging option is the White Peak Loop: Monsal Trail and Eyam, which leads through limestone dales and historic villages.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in Bakewell?
Yes, many routes around Bakewell are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Monsal Trail and Chatsworth Loop from Bakewell offers a 36.2 km circular ride combining the popular trail with a visit towards Chatsworth. Another option is the Monsal Trail – Monsal Trail loop from Bakewell CP, a moderate 18.6 km loop.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the cycling routes?
The routes often pass through stunning natural landscapes and past historical landmarks. You might encounter the picturesque Monsal Dale Weir, the impressive Headstone Viaduct, or enjoy panoramic views from Monsal Head. Other notable sights include the ancient Fin Cop Hillfort and the historic Nine Ladies Stone Circle.
Are there any specific attractions near the cycling routes in Bakewell?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore several significant attractions. Chatsworth House, a grand stately home with extensive gardens, is often incorporated into longer routes. Haddon Hall, a medieval manor house, is also nearby. Within Bakewell itself, you can visit the historic Bakewell Bridge, the Bakewell Old House Museum, and the tranquil Bath Gardens.
Is the Monsal Trail suitable for all types of touring bikes?
The Monsal Trail, being a traffic-free path along a former railway line, has a relatively smooth, compacted surface, making it suitable for most touring bikes, hybrids, and mountain bikes. Road bikes with narrower tires might find it less comfortable, but it's generally manageable. A cycle hire centre is conveniently located at Hassop Station on the trail.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Bakewell?
The Peak District offers beautiful scenery year-round, but spring, summer, and early autumn generally provide the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling. During these seasons, the weather is typically milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. However, the area's diverse routes mean you can find enjoyable rides even in cooler months, though some higher or more exposed sections might be more challenging.
Are there options for cycle hire in Bakewell?
Yes, for those who don't bring their own bikes, cycle hire facilities are available. A prominent cycle hire centre is located at Hassop Station, directly on the Monsal Trail, making it very convenient to access this popular route.
Can I combine cycling with exploring Bakewell town?
Absolutely. Bakewell town centre is rich in heritage, with impressive stone buildings, charming tea rooms, and a traditional weekly market. Many cycling routes start or pass through Bakewell, allowing you to easily combine your ride with a visit to the quaint five-arched Bakewell Bridge, the Old House Museum, or simply enjoy the local atmosphere and perhaps try a famous Bakewell Pudding.
Are there any routes that connect to longer-distance trails?
Yes, Bakewell serves as a base for routes that connect to longer-distance trails. The area is part of routes like the Pennine Cycleway and the Pennine Bridleway, catering to experienced riders seeking multi-day challenges and extensive exploration of the Peak District and beyond.
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