The best cycling routes around Ladybower Reservoir

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle loop around the Ladybower, Derwent, and Howden Reservoirs, covering 16.8 miles (27.0 km) with an elevation gain of 1186 feet (361 metres). This route typically takes around 2 hours to complete, winding through a landscape of majestic waters, rolling hills, and dense woodlands. You will experience a mix of mostly off-road trails and minor roads, with extensive paved surfaces and compacted gravel paths. The eastern edge of Ladybower Reservoir features a gravel track, offering a varied terrain as you cycle through the dramatic Upper Derwent Valley.

For your visit, the Fairholmes Visitor Centre is a common starting point, providing parking, refreshments, and bicycle hire facilities. The terrain is suitable for touring, hybrid, gravel, and mountain bikes, though some unpaved or rougher sections exist. Be aware that during winter, parts of the route might have puddle-filled potholes, and icy conditions can make certain sections challenging. While generally well-maintained, some gravel paths can be roughened by forestry work, so plan your ride accordingly.

This route offers a rich blend of natural beauty and history. You will pass the impressive, over 100-year-old gothic towers of the Howden and Derwent Dams, famous as a practice site for the

Embark on a difficult touring cycling adventure around the Ladybower and Derwent Reservoirs. This 14.6-mile (23.6 km) loop, with an elevation gain of 1617 feet (493 metres), takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete. You'll experience stunning waterside views, pass through shady woodlands, and see the impressive Derwent Dam. The route features a mix of tarmac roads and smooth gravel trails, with some challenging hilly sections, especially along the eastern edge of Ladybower Reservoir.

Start your journey conveniently from Fairholmes Car Park, which offers pay-and-display parking, a visitor center, and refreshment kiosks. You can even hire bikes here if you need one. Given the varied terrain of tarmac and gravel, a hybrid or mountain bike is recommended for this route. Be aware that after crossing the Ashopton Viaduct, you'll need to stay on the pavement and pedal uphill, as bikes are not permitted on a footpath immediately after.

Beyond its natural beauty, this area holds significant historical importance. The reservoirs were famously used by Lancaster Bomber pilots for practice bombing runs during the Dambusters raids in WWII. The iconic Derwent Dam, a key feature you'll encounter, played a central role in these practice flights. This unique history adds another layer to your touring cycling experience in the Peak District National Park.

Embark on The Strines, Holm Moss & Snake Pass loop from Ladybower, a difficult touring bicycle route that challenges you with 49.5 miles (79.7 km) and a significant 5159 feet (1572 metres) of elevation gain. This extensive loop takes around 5 hours and 49 minutes to complete, winding through the Peak District's varied terrain, from the distinctive Y-shaped Ladybower Reservoir to dramatic open moorland. You will encounter well-paved roads and some unpaved segments, with the Strines section offering a rollercoaster profile and narrow, tricky roads.

This hard road ride demands very good fitness, so be prepared for substantial ascents and descents. If you plan to carry luggage, the extreme gradients on Strines and Holm Moss will require low gearing. A robust road bike, gravel bike, or touring bike is more suitable than a lightweight racing bike for the varied surfaces. Snake Pass can carry heavy traffic, including HGVs and motorcycles, so consider riding during quieter periods like early weekend mornings to enhance your experience.

This loop is notable for combining three of the Peak District's most iconic and challenging cycling climbs: The Strines, Holm Moss, and Snake Pass. Holm Moss, in particular, has featured in professional races like the Tour de France and Tour of Britain, making it a significant test of endurance. The route offers a comprehensive experience of the region's diverse landscapes, providing a memorable sense of achievement as you conquer these renowned climbs.