High Peak Trail and Derwent Valley Loop

This combined route offers a varied gravel biking experience. The High Peak Trail section is predominantly a traffic-free, off-road path with a crushed limestone surface, generally flat but with some coarse sections. The Derwent Valley Loop features a mix of sealed tarmac roads and off-road paths, with surfaces ranging from good gravel to sections roughened by forestry work. You'll encounter undulating terrain, especially around the reservoirs, and some routes can include steep inclines.

The full loop, covering approximately 66.8 kilometers (41.5 miles) with over 1000 meters of elevation gain, typically takes around 5 hours and 38 minutes of riding time. This duration can vary significantly based on your fitness level, speed, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or visit points of interest.

The route is rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. On the High Peak Trail, you'll pass by the Middleton Top Engine House and railway wagon, and experience the challenging Sheep Pasture Incline. The Derwent Valley section offers stunning views of the Ladybower, Derwent, and Howden reservoirs, famous for their role in the Dambusters raids. You'll also ride through peaceful forests and past the Wyver Lane Nature Reserve.

Given the length and loop nature of this route, there are several potential starting points with parking. For the High Peak Trail, popular access points with parking include Middleton Top and Parsley Hay. For the Derwent Valley Loop, the Fairholmes visitor centre is a common starting point and offers parking facilities. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and fees.

Yes, both the High Peak Trail and sections of the Derwent Valley Loop are generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a lead, especially around livestock, wildlife, and in nature reserve areas like Wyver Lane Nature Reserve. Please ensure you clean up after your dog to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

The best time to ride this loop is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are less likely to be muddy or icy. Higher sections of the High Peak Trail can be exposed during poor weather, so be prepared for changing conditions, especially outside of peak season.

No specific permits or entrance fees are required to cycle on the High Peak Trail or the Derwent Valley Loop itself. The route passes through the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, which is a designated area for its industrial heritage, but access to the trails within it is generally free. However, parking facilities at popular trailheads may have charges, and some visitor attractions along the way might have entry fees.

Yes, this extensive route incorporates sections of several other official trails. You'll find yourself on parts of the Derwent Valley Heritage Way, the Midshires Way, and, of course, the High Peak Trail itself. It also briefly touches upon the Cromford Canal Footpath and various Amber Valley Routeways.

While parts of both the High Peak Trail and the Derwent Valley Loop offer relatively easy, traffic-free sections suitable for families or beginners, the combined 66.8 km (41.5 miles) distance and over 1000 meters of elevation gain make this particular loop a difficult ride. It includes challenging inclines like the Sheep Pasture Incline. Shorter, individual sections of these trails might be more appropriate for beginners or younger families.

Yes, there are options for refreshments and bike hire. You'll find cycle hire facilities at Middleton Top and Parsley Hay along the High Peak Trail. In the Derwent Valley, the Fairholmes visitor centre also offers cycle hire. For refreshments, the Belper Bike Barn is a highlight, and there are various cafes and pubs in the towns and villages along or near the route.

Given the varied terrain, a gravel bike is ideal for this route. Its versatility allows it to handle the crushed limestone of the High Peak Trail, the mixed surfaces of the Derwent Valley Loop, and occasional rougher sections. While mountain bikes would also be suitable, a gravel bike offers a good balance of comfort and efficiency for the longer distances and mixed surfaces.

The route traverses an area rich in history. The High Peak Trail follows the path of the former Cromford and High Peak Railway, one of the world's first long-distance railway lines, showcasing Britain's industrial heritage. The Derwent Valley is famous for its impressive dams at Ladybower, Derwent, and Howden reservoirs, which served as a practice site for the Dambusters raids during World War II. The entire area is part of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, recognizing its pivotal role in the birth of the factory system.