Located in central England and covering more the 550 square miles, the Peak District was the first established national park back in 1951. With breathtaking landscapes wherever you ride, along with (as the name suggests) hilly and challenging climbs, reservoirs and numerous cycleways.
Cycle trails
The Peak District boasts three official cycling trails, all along former railways and giving much to see. What's more is it's the perfect excuse to stop by Bakewell for a spectular Bakewell pudding mid cycle!
Monsal cycle trail
The famous Monsal cycle trail joins Buxton and Bakewell along the former Midland Railway line. There's a great cycle hire shop along the route at Hassop and the tunnels are well lit for year round cycling.
Be sure to soak in the panoramic and famous Monsal Dale view from the Monsal Head viewpoint. The cycle route isn't ideal for road tires (although possible), however it's suitable for all abilities and there's lots to see along the route - including old lime kilns, the former platform at Millers Dale (you'll find toilets here too) and tunnels aplenty.
The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop is the perfect cycling pitstop to tryout the clique Bakewell pudding. You'll struggle to find one better (we've been numerous times) and they claim to be the source of the first Bakewell pudding back in 1860 (still made using the same recipe)! Will you go for a traditional pudding or the modern tart? Decisions!
High Peak trail
Now fully reopen since 2019, the High Peak cycle trail is a 17 mile route between Hurdlow and High Peak Junction, formally designed to carry minerals between Cromford Canal and the Peak Forest Canal.
Be sure to check out Cromford Wharf, Arkwright's Cromford Mills and at Middleton Top the engine house with its massive beam engine. In Wirksworth along the route you'll find an excellent cycle hire shop.
Tissington trail
The Tissington cycle trail is a 13 mile cycle route which runs along the former London and North Western Railway (LNWR) between Buxton and Ashbourne (where you'll also find cycle hire).
Nearby is Dovedale (National Trust), Hartington village and Tissington Hall.
Below you'll find personally recommended cycling cafes and coffee stops within Peak District, along with our very own cycle routes, including GPX files for those looking to visit the area and explore by bike.
Each cafe has been meticulously reviewed and visited to ensure you know everything from how good the coffee and cake selection is, how easy it is to store your bike, affordability and whether it's suitable for cycling groups.