Some of our nation’s most stunning countryside can be found in the Peak District, but it’s also home to many tough climbs that are sure to challenge even the most professional cyclist.
Straddling Derbyshire, Yorkshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire counties, this National Park covers an enormous area of around 1500 square kilometres meaning that there’s something for every road cyclist to enjoy, and plenty of cycling opportunities to have, whatever your preferences and ability level.
Riders also love this area for its closeness to several cities in the north of England, including Manchester, Stoke-on-Trent, Huddersfield and Sheffield. This proximity gives cyclists a fantastic way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life along with some challenging terrain to suit the needs of professionals located near British Cycling’s home.
There are rides in this District to suit the needs of cyclists at all levels, from quiet routes to trails off-road. But what if you’re keen to try a seriously tough challenge? The Peak District has no lack of tough climbs, but we’ve brought you our top ten climbs within this challenging region that are sure to test you! Explore the best Peak District cycling routes to find the perfect challenge for your next ride.
Introduction to Peak District Cycling
The Peak District is a haven for cyclists, offering a diverse range of routes and terrain to suit all abilities. From gentle, scenic rides to challenging climbs and off-road trails, the Peak District has something for everyone. Located in the heart of England, the Peak District National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. With its proximity to major cities such as Manchester, Sheffield, and Derby, the Peak District is an ideal destination for a cycling holiday.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist looking for a tough climb or a casual rider seeking a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes, the Peak District National Park has it all. The region’s varied terrain includes rolling hills, steep climbs, and winding trails, making it perfect for both road bikes and mountain bikes. The breathtaking scenery, from lush valleys to rugged moorlands, provides a stunning backdrop for any cycling adventure.
Gun Hill Cycling Climb in Peak District
The Gun Hill climb skirts around the Peak District’s edge to its south-west Staffordshire side. It has earned a strong reputation amongst professional riders and it once even made Mark Cavendish cry during one of his training rides! He came back extra strong though, riding his yellow Tour of Britain jersey while riding across it during 2011.
Why did this climb have such a major effect on Cavendish? You may wonder when you begin since the beginning of the Meerbrook ascent is fairly gentle for the initial kilometre with peaks of just over 5%. Don’t be taken in, though. The gradient soon makes itself clear, pitching to 20% and maintaining that tough gradient over the kilometre to come. It only eases off for the last 200 metres before you need to put in one more spurt of effort as you crest its summit. This climb is particularly challenging for road bike enthusiasts due to its steep sections and varying gradients.
Climb vital statistics:
Gradient (average)– 7%
Distance – 2.2km
Steepest point of gradient – 20%
Peaslows Cycling Climb
Cutting a line directly upwards from Chapel-en-le-Frith’s eastern edge, Peaslows heads towards Sparrowpit. It can be accessed just off the Sheffield Road, cutting out the seriously busy junction of the A6.
Although Peaslows appears to be quite unremarkable when you view it from above on a map, take a closer look at its profile. You’ll soon see how challenging it is. For the initial kilometre, the profile is under 10%, and peaks of as high as 14% appear on the straight route.
As a result, this route is very tough. There’s absolutely no distractions from the challenge at hand, and the last 500 metres merely acts as a form of tease since it eases only a little, causing you to need to switch your afterburners on to get to the top of this deceptively difficult climb.
Route vital statistics:
Gradient (average) – 11%
Distance – 1.5km
Steepest point of gradient – 14%
Monsal Head Cycling Climb
This sharp, short stinger runs up Monsal Dale ridge. This climb is especially testing due to the ongoing gradient which starts out as a kick in your teeth before continuing to unceremoniously do so during your grind upwards to reach the top. However, the view you can enjoy from the summit over the viaduct at Headstone and Monsal Dale makes this climb truly worthwhile.
The good thing about this grind is that it’s completely predictable, reaching no more than seventeen percent along its entire route, and this makes it ideal for an “out of saddle” attack throughout as you struggle to keep the momentum you began with.
The Monsal Hill Climb each year is held at Monsal Head – an event dating back to the 1930s. It has become established as a top country climb, and in 2016 it was won in just 1 hour 16 ½ minutes.
When you reach the top, you discover a pub – the Monsal Head Hotel – as well as gorgeous views over the viaduct traversing the cutaway which was created by the Wye River.
Climb vital statistics:
Gradient (average) – 14%
Distance – 0.4km
Steepest point of gradient – 17%
This sharp, short stinger runs up Monsal Dale ridge. This climb is especially testing due to the ongoing gradient and sharp climbs which start out as a kick in your teeth before continuing to unceremoniously do so during your grind upwards to reach the top. However, the view you can enjoy from the summit over the viaduct at Headstone and Monsal Dale makes this climb truly worthwhile.
Burbage Moor Cycling Climb
One of our longest climbs at 4.5 kilometres, Burbage Moor is an especially winding route which rises and falls along with its terrain.
During the climb, you gain 269 metres of elevation, averaging at 5% across the Strava’s segment. Yet, while it sounds quite simple, don’t be taken in! The final stretch is a descent down to the finishing line which shrouds the climb’s true nature which is quite severe. It features a 16% peak gradient during its first third. That means, unless you feel especially sprightly, you’ll need a wide cassette so you can spin up while fighting for more grip from the rear wheel.
Beginning at Hathersage, this road rolls upwards, over the initial incline, and then flattens off when you come round the hill and begin the ascent up the next ridge. Although there’s a flat gradient when you turn, it isn’t sufficiently long for you to have sufficient time to recover. Attack the route here and build up maximum momentum to take you into your second stage.
Climb vital statistics
Gradient (average) – 5%
Distance – 4.5km
Steepest point of gradient – 16%
Larkstone Lane Cycling Climb
The Peak District’s southern section is home to Larkstone Lane, a route that climbs from the gorge that Manifold River created to proceed straight upwards to the crossroad at the summit.
The main thing that adds character to this road is how it switches backwards twice on itself in its first 400 metres. First you go left, then you go right, all while scaling the hill which peaks at 18%. There’s a brief respite as the road eases briefly off before it steepens again for its long 800m continuous stretch.
When you approach the crossroad at the summit of your climb in Hope Valley, you’ll find it hard going on your legs. Despite the flattening off of the road and its slightly negative grade it will rise gently towards the junction once more, so if you’re keen to get a speedy time on this segment you’ll have to push on right to its end.
Climb vital statistics:
Gradient (average) – 7%
Distance – 1.8km
Steepest point of gradient – 16%
Rowsley Bar Cycling Climb
When you want a seriously tough climb that bites all the way from the bottom to the top, Rowsley Bar might be just what you’re looking for. Beginning just out of the Peak District’s extremity, it heads out from Rowsley village, presenting you with a gradient that steadily increases right from the start.
From its starting point, at the Chatsworth Road turnoff, you’ll find the road heading upwards steadily until the switchbacks are reached. You’ll find the steepest 25% gradient at those bends before it straights up once more as you head into the finale.
This climb is well-travelled by cyclists from all over the country so you’ll almost certainly want to add it to your own wish list.
Climb vital statistics:
Gradient (average) – 13%
Distance – 1km
Steepest point of gradient – 25%
Curbar Edge Cycling Climb
It’s fair to say that any climb that has regularly been a venue for hill climb competitions is bound to test your legs. Curbar Edge, known for its testing climbs, certainly fits the bill. Recently, before it moved to Scotland in 2016, the BUCS (British Universities & College Sport)’s national hill climbing competition was held at Curbar Edge.
It’s easy to see why Curbar Edge presents such a tough test. You can access the climb from the A623. It is named after the village which is passed by cyclists during their first 500 metres. After that point, the gradient throughout the 1.7 kilometre ascent stays fairly constant – around 10% – the entire way up to its summit.
The summit is near when you see the road taking its typical twist to the left then the right when you head towards the cliff face’s natural gap close to the top. You won’t find any respite though – just like all challenging hill courses you’ll need full gas the whole way if you’re keen to get near the top of the Strava leaderboard.
Climb vital statistics:
Gradient (average)- 10%
Distance – 1.7km
Steepest point of gradient – 11%
Winnats Pass Cycling Climb with Challenging Terrain
This is perhaps the Peak District’s most atmospheric, characterful and beautiful climbs, especially as it passes through what once was believed to be a limestone cavern that had collapsed. If you’re seeking a peak epic challenge, this route is a must-ride. It’s also been on 2015’s Tour of Britain’s 6th stage, so professional race organisers are also well-aware of its challenges.
Measuring 1.4 kilometres in length while averaging out at 12%, this is a tough ride all the way to the top. The challenge is even harder due to the grade which becomes increasingly tough when you scale upwards. When you begin your climb at the A6187 junction and proceed up the Arthurs Way, the gradient is 7% and it only gets higher.
You enter into the famous limestone cleft which makes Winnats Pass so popular with cyclists, and you’ll start seeing double figures. As you sweep though that canyon, the beautiful road will pitch even higher and eventually you’ll hit 20% steadily over the final 200 metres, putting a major sting at the end of this beautiful climb.
Climb vital statistics:
Gradient (average) – 12%
Distance – 1.4km
Steepest point of gradient – 20%
Ewden Bank (otherwise known as ‘Deliverance’)
We had to add “Deliverance” to our list of top Peak District climbs. This suggestive title probably refers to the climb’s severity since it allows no momentum to be carried onto the main drag.
Beginning at the river Ewden Back, the road goes up to the right and then the left, so your speed is already sapped before you’re deposited on the ridge. As your speed has gone, you have to shift your cassette up and just settle in for the ride. This 900 metre climb’s KOM is currently held by Graham Briggs of JLT-Condor in three minutes 26 seconds. This shows how even professionals are unable to take their speed onto this climb.
You’ll follow the Mortimer Road up its ridge almost directly and the gradient will reach 15% before dipping down to 10 and then rising up to 16 again as you get closer to a right hander close to the top. It’s necessary to round the corner at top gas though as the segment will stop when you reach the next left bend that just 150 metres later will round Thorpe’s Brow.
Climb vital statistics:
Gradient (average) – 13%
Distance – 0.9km
Steepest point of gradient – 16%
Mam Tor Cycling Climb
It’s fair to say that no list of the Peak District’s best climbs could ever be complete if we didn’t mention Mam Tor. Beginning at Barber Booth, this is yet another fairly consistent climb that tops out close to Mam Tor’s actual peak – over 500 metres in elevation.
This time, though, the 10% average gradient is spread across a distance of 2.1 km so you can try to find the right pace and rhythm as you head upwards. But don’t let yourself be fooled – currently, the QOM and KOM times are 9:20 and 6:53 respectively. That means you can expect to spend some serious time working up this one.
You’ll first make a head-on approach to the hill, and you’ll already feel the 10% peaks. When you reach the 1km mark, you’ll veer left and scale the hillside which is incredibly steep. You’ll then twist, turn and wind across the topography and hit the peak 15% pitch until at least, you get to the last switchback twist when you get to the top. Maintain your effort throughout as this route will test you right to the end.
Climb vital statistics:
Gradient (average) – 10%
Distance – 2.1km
Steepest point of gradient – 15%
So, there you have it – our top 10 climbs to enjoy in the Peak District. We’re sure you’ll find something on this list to suit your preferences and to give you a challenge when you’re riding in this beautiful part of the UK, whether you’re on a road bike or another type of bike.
Planning Your Peak District Cycling Trip
Planning a cycling trip to the Peak District can be a daunting task, but with a little preparation, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable trip. Here are a few things to consider when planning your trip:
Accommodation: The Peak District offers a wide range of accommodation options, from cozy B&Bs to luxury hotels. Consider staying in a town or village that is central to your planned routes, such as Bakewell or Matlock. These locations provide easy access to many of the Peak District’s best cycling routes and offer a variety of amenities to make your stay comfortable.
Bike Hire: If you don’t have a bike, or prefer not to bring your own, there are several bike hire shops throughout the Peak District. Many of these shops offer a range of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and hybrid bikes. This allows you to choose the best bike for your planned routes and ensures you have the right equipment for the challenging terrain.
Route Planning: The Peak District has a vast network of roads and trails, offering countless route options. Consider using online route planners or guidebooks to help plan your routes. Websites like Strava and Komoot provide detailed maps and user-generated routes that can help you find the best paths for your skill level and interests.
Weather: The Peak District weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack accordingly. Bring waterproof gear, warm clothing, and plenty of snacks and water. Checking the weather forecast before you set out can help you prepare for any conditions you might encounter, ensuring you stay safe and comfortable during your ride.
Accommodation and Bike Hire
There are many great places to stay in the Peak District, ranging from cozy B&Bs to luxury hotels. Here are a few options to consider:
Bakewell: This charming town is located in the heart of the Peak District and offers a range of accommodation options, including B&Bs, hotels, and self-catering cottages. Bakewell is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area and accessing some of the best cycling routes in the region.
Matlock: This historic town is located in the southern Peak District and offers a range of accommodation options, including B&Bs, hotels, and self-catering apartments. Matlock’s central location makes it a convenient starting point for many cycling adventures.
Bike Hire: There are several bike hire shops throughout the Peak District, including:
Peak District Cycle Hire: Located in Bakewell, this shop offers a range of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and hybrid bikes. They also provide helmets and other essential gear to ensure you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable ride.
Matlock Cycle Hire: Located in Matlock, this shop offers a range of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and hybrid bikes. Their knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right bike for your needs and provide tips on the best local routes.
Tips and Advice
Here are a few tips and pieces of advice to help you make the most of your Peak District cycling trip:
Be prepared: The Peak District weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack accordingly. Bring waterproof gear, warm clothing, and plenty of snacks and water. Being prepared for all weather conditions will help you stay comfortable and safe during your ride.
Respect the terrain: The Peak District terrain can be challenging, so be sure to respect the roads and trails. Avoid taking unnecessary risks and always wear safety gear. Pay attention to trail markers and signs, and be mindful of other trail users, including hikers and horse riders.
Enjoy the scenery: The Peak District is a beautiful place, so be sure to take time to enjoy the scenery. Stop at viewpoints, take photos, and soak up the atmosphere. The stunning landscapes and picturesque villages are part of what makes cycling in the Peak District such a unique and rewarding experience.
Get involved: The Peak District has a thriving cycling community, so be sure to get involved. Join local cycling clubs, attend events, and participate in online forums. Connecting with other cyclists can provide valuable insights, tips, and camaraderie, enhancing your overall experience.
By following these tips and planning carefully, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable cycling trip in the Peak District. Whether you’re tackling tough climbs or enjoying leisurely rides, the Peak District offers something for every cyclist.
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