The best traffic-free bike rides around Carsington

There are nearly 90 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes around Carsington, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy, leisurely rides to more challenging, difficult routes.

The routes around Carsington cater to various abilities. While there are 14 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride, the majority (59) are considered moderate, offering a good balance of challenge and enjoyment. For experienced cyclists seeking a more demanding adventure, there are also 14 difficult routes available.

Yes, the Carsington Water area is well-known for its circular routes. The main circular track around the reservoir is approximately 27 km (17 miles) and is suitable for various abilities, offering continuous scenic views. For a longer moderate option, consider the Carsington Water – Longford Old Mill loop from Carsington CP, which covers over 50 km.

The terrain around Carsington offers a varied experience. You'll encounter well-maintained tracks around the reservoir, sections passing through pleasant woodland, and routes that transition into the gently rolling hills southwest of Wirksworth. The area also connects to former railway lines like the High Peak Trail and Tissington Trail, which provide traffic-free, relatively flat surfaces.

Carsington Water is a haven for nature lovers. The reservoir itself is a central feature, surrounded by lush greenery. You might cycle through dappled woodland areas and spot diverse wildlife such as Lapwings, Cormorants, Tufted Ducks, Water Voles, Kingfishers, buzzards, and grebes. Several hides are scattered along the shoreline for optimal birdwatching opportunities.

Absolutely! The well-maintained circular route around Carsington Water is a popular choice for families, offering a moderate grade and a mix of road and trail sections. The nearby Tissington Trail, a traffic-free former railway line, also provides a gentle and safe cycling experience through open fields, ideal for families.

The main Visitor Centre on the west shore of Carsington Water provides ample parking facilities, making it a convenient starting point for your cycling adventures. From here, you can easily access the circular route around the reservoir and other connecting trails.

Yes, the main Visitor Centre at Carsington Water offers cafes and restaurants where you can refuel before or after your ride. The circular route around the reservoir also has on-site cafes providing refreshments. For routes extending further afield, you'll find charming pubs and cafes in the nearby villages, perfect for a break.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from 51 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning views across Carsington Water, the tranquility of the traffic-free paths, and the variety of routes that cater to all abilities, from leisurely spins to challenging climbs.

Yes, Carsington Water is strategically located for more extensive cycling adventures. It connects to the Tissington Village – Bradbourne Brook Ford loop from Carsington CP, which links to the Tissington Trail. This traffic-free route follows an historic former railway line through open fields and limestone landscapes, offering a gentle climb towards Parsley Hay from Ashbourne. The High Peak Trail is also nearby, extending from the Derwent Valley.

While cycling, you'll enjoy continuous scenic views across Carsington Water itself. For specific viewpoints, consider exploring routes that pass through areas like the rolling hills southwest of Wirksworth. The broader Derbyshire region, including areas accessible via connected trails, features remarkable natural beauty and limestone plateaus. You can also find highlights like Kelly's Trail which offers a viewpoint.