Derbyshire 4/5 days cycling for seniors

[roubaixtuesday]

Name the peaks then.

Already done!

the fossilised reefs of Parkside and Chrome Hill are the only real Peaks in the peak district

 

[Big T]

Not sure where best to base yourself, but I'd be looking to ride the Tissington, Monsal, High Peak and Cloud trails. One of those is a bit steep, though. The one near Cromford.

The High Peak trail is indeed very steep - 15% climb, if you start from Cromford Junction, but the steep bit can be avoided by starting at Middleton Top near Wirksworth (providing you have access to a car, of course). You could also add the Manifold Trail to the list, although it’s technically just over the border in Staffordshire. It starts at Hulme End which is a couple of miles from Hartington.

 

[Big T]

Isn't there a train station in Matlock and then fairly level access?

It’s a few miles along the busy A6 from Matlock to Bakewell, while it’s flat it’s not that pleasant. There is an off-road alternative gravel track alongside the Heritage Railway line that runs from Matlock to Rowsley and then a bridleway that takes you to the Coombs Lane Viaduct, which is the very start of the Monsal Trail. If you don‘t fancy the off-road and don’t want to ride on the A6, then you have to climb out of the Derwent valley to get to quieter roads. They aren’t that steep, but they do drag on.

 

[Big T]

Name the peaks then.

Kinder Scout, Win Hill, Lose Hill, Mam Tor.

 

[mjr]

It’s a few miles along the busy A6 from Matlock to Bakewell, while it’s flat it’s not that pleasant. There is an off-road alternative gravel track alongside the Heritage Railway line that runs from Matlock to Rowsley and then a bridleway that takes you to the Coombs Lane Viaduct, which is the very start of the Monsal Trail. If you don‘t fancy the off-road and don’t want to ride on the A6, then you have to climb out of the Derwent valley to get to quieter roads. They aren’t that steep, but they do drag on.

Ah, I didn't realise not all of NCR 680 is the Monsal Trail.