The best traffic-free bike rides around Dovestone reservoir

There are 5 curated traffic-free gravel bike trails around Dovestone Reservoir, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult. These routes offer a great way to explore the area without vehicle interference.

Yes, for an easier, traffic-free gravel ride, consider the Torside Reservoir – Torside Dam Spillway loop from Tintwistle. This route is approximately 10.6 km with a manageable 125 meters of elevation gain, making it ideal for those new to gravel biking or looking for a relaxed outing.

The terrain around Dovestone Reservoir offers a diverse mix for gravel biking. You'll find well-maintained gravel paths and tarmac around the reservoirs, transitioning to more challenging field paths and uneven, rocky hill trails across the moorland. This variety ensures both accessible rides and more strenuous options for experienced cyclists.

Yes, all the recommended traffic-free gravel bike routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Standedge Cutting – View of Diggle loop from Greenfield offers a moderate circular ride of over 20 km.

For a more challenging, traffic-free gravel experience, the Slaithwaite village and canal – View of Digley Reservoir loop from Marsden is a difficult route spanning over 31 km with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Portland Basin – Peak Forest Canal loop from Mossley, which covers nearly 37 km.

The routes offer stunning views of the reservoirs (Dovestone, Yeoman Hey, Greenfield, and Chew), expansive moorland, and distinctive gritstone formations like Dovestones Edge and Wimberry Rocks. You'll also pass through woodlands and experience the converging valleys of the Greenfield and Chew Brooks, providing picturesque scenery throughout your ride.

Absolutely. As an RSPB-managed site, Dovestone Reservoir is a haven for diverse bird species. While cycling, you might spot golden plovers, dunlin, curlew, peregrine falcons, and even mountain hares, especially on the quieter moorland sections of the trails.

Yes, several routes incorporate canal paths, offering a unique historical and scenic experience. The Park Bridge Heritage Centre – Ashton Canal loop from Mossley is a great example, allowing you to cycle alongside the historic Ashton Canal.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the traffic-free paths, the stunning moorland and reservoir views, and the variety of terrain that keeps rides interesting and engaging.

While Dovestone Reservoir is beautiful year-round, spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking. Spring brings blooming heather and active wildlife, while autumn provides vibrant foliage. Summer can be great, but be prepared for potentially busier paths, especially around the main reservoir areas. Winter rides are possible but require appropriate gear for colder, potentially wetter conditions.