Ladybower, Bamford & Winnats Pass loop from Edale — Peak District National Park

This difficult touring bicycle loop from Edale covers 26.8 miles (43.1 km) with a significant 2298 feet (701 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 7 minutes to complete. You'll experience a diverse range of terrain, from the gentle gravel tracks along Ladybower Reservoir to the extremely challenging ascent of Winnats Pass. Winnats Pass itself is a dramatic sight, winding through a steep limestone gorge with rock faces on either side of the road. From its summit, you can enjoy panoramic vistas across the Hope Valley and spot Mam Tor. The route showcases the varied landscapes of the Peak District, including iconic reservoirs and dramatic gritstone edges.

Be prepared for a hard bike ride requiring very good fitness, especially for Winnats Pass, which features an average gradient of over 10% and maximums nearing 29%. If you stop on the steepest ramps, restarting can be nearly impossible. The road through Winnats Pass can be busy with motor traffic, and the steep inclines might cause cars to struggle. While the Ladybower section is flatter, expect puddle-filled potholes during winter. Some sections of country lanes and trails may also include unpaved or rougher surfaces with boulders.

This route is notable for incorporating Winnats Pass, considered one of the best climbs in the UK for cyclists seeking a significant challenge. You will also pass the Derwent Dam, a stunning neo-Gothic construction with historical significance as the training ground for the RAF's 617 Squadron, the "Dambusters," during World War II. During periods of low water levels, you might even glimpse the remains of a flooded village within Ladybower Reservoir.