4.3
(76)
663
riders
41
rides
Mountain biking around Clifton And Compton offers diverse terrain within the Derbyshire Dales, characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and reservoirs. The region features a mix of natural landscapes and former railway lines converted into trails, providing varied surfaces for mountain bikers. The area includes notable features like the River Dove and Carsington Water, contributing to a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
3.7
(6)
81
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
42
riders
14.4km
00:58
140m
140m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(4)
12
riders
29.3km
02:01
450m
450m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
6
riders
33.2km
02:31
520m
520m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
4
riders
38.4km
02:30
450m
450m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A great little coffee shop to call at, the cakes are amazing 😋
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Tiny and full of lovely goodies to eat and drink. Gets busy in fine weather and locates in quaint hamlet. They even have pain killers :)
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One of the most celebrated events in the village is the annual Well Dressing festival, a unique and tradition that dates back centuries. What is Well Dressing? Well dressing is an ancient custom that involves decorating wells and springs with intricate and beautiful designs made from natural materials such as flowers, petals, leaves, and seeds. Some suggest the tradition began after Tissington escaped the Black Death, with villagers attributing their survival to the purity of their water supply. Pagan Origins: Another theory suggests the custom may have roots in pagan practices of offering thanks to the gods of wells and springs The festival usually takes place during Ascension Week, a religious observance that occurs 40 days after Easter Sunday.
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Beautiful tunnel which is very photogenic from Ashbourne end
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Lit tunnel on the Tissington trail at Ashbourne, with sound art installation
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There are over 40 mountain bike trails around Clifton And Compton. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 10 easy, 29 moderate, and 3 difficult options.
Yes, there are 10 easy mountain bike trails around Clifton And Compton. Many of these utilize former railway lines, offering smoother surfaces and gentler gradients. For example, sections of the routes around Carsington Water are known for being mostly flat with refreshment stops.
The terrain around Clifton And Compton is diverse, characterized by rolling hills, scenic river valleys, and reservoir paths. You'll find a mix of surfaces, including converted railway lines, which provide a smoother ride, and more natural trails that can be challenging, especially in areas like Milldale where some sections might require dismounting.
The region is rich in natural beauty. You might encounter the picturesque Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove, the distinctive conical hill of Thorpe Cloud, or the impressive Dove Holes Caves. Carsington Water is another prominent feature, offering scenic views and cycling opportunities.
Yes, the Carsington Water – Carsington Water loop from Ashbourne CP is a 38.4 km moderate route that specifically circles the reservoir. Its eastern side features varied terrain with short climbs and descents, while the western side is mostly flat, offering excellent views of the water.
The mountain bike trails around Clifton And Compton are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 75 reviews. Many riders appreciate the varied terrain, from converted railway lines to scenic river valleys, and the opportunities to explore natural landscapes.
For a longer, more challenging ride, consider the Ashbourne Tunnel – Istrian stone hut at Parsley Hay loop from Ashbourne CP. This moderate route spans 65.8 km and typically takes over 4 hours to complete, utilizing former railway lines and offering extensive views.
Many routes in the area connect to or pass near local villages. For instance, the Tissington Village – Ilam Village and Monument loop from Ashbourne CP will take you through or near Tissington and Ilam, which are known for their charm. Carsington Water also has refreshment stops along its western side.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Clifton And Compton are designed as loops. Examples include the Ashbourne Tunnel – Milldale loop from Ashbourne CP and the Bradbourne Brook Ford – Ashbourne Tunnel loop from Ashbourne CP, both offering circular journeys through varied landscapes.
Ride durations vary significantly based on the trail and your pace. Moderate routes like the Ashbourne Tunnel – Milldale loop (29.3 km) typically take around 2 hours, while longer routes such as the Ashbourne Tunnel – Istrian stone hut at Parsley Hay loop (65.8 km) can take over 4 hours.
The region is known for its geological formations. You can find impressive caves like Dove Holes Caves, formed by glacial meltwater, and Reynard’s Cave and Natural Arch. Some routes may pass near these features, offering opportunities for exploration, though caution is advised on slippery surfaces.


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