4.5
(396)
6,872
riders
362
rides
Touring cycling around Idridgehay and Alton CP offers routes through the varied landscape of rural Derbyshire. The area features a mix of rolling hills, open countryside, and quiet lanes, often passing through traditional villages and alongside water features. Terrain is generally suitable for touring bicycles, with some routes incorporating bridleways or sections near historic estates. The region provides a network of paths for exploring the local scenery.
Last updated: May 23, 2026
4.3
(4)
44
riders
40.3km
02:48
510m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
7
riders
21.8km
01:35
470m
470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
15.9km
01:11
310m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
31.2km
02:26
740m
740m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Incredible engineering from the past when railway wagons were winched up and down the inclines.
0
0
When visiting Peat Pits Brook, be prepared for potentially boggy and muddy conditions, especially during wetter months [1]. To ensure a comfortable hike, wear waterproof footwear and consider gaiters to keep your lower legs dry. Additionally, carrying a map and compass is advisable, as navigating through peat bogs can be challenging due to the lack of clear trails [2]. Always check the weather forecast before your trip, as heavy rainfall can exacerbate muddy conditions. [1] https://www.alltrails.com/trail/england/derbyshire/shiny-cliff-wood-and-peat-pits-wood-circular [2] https://sectionhiker.com/how-to-hike-across-peat-bogs/
0
0
There's a small footbridge next to the ford so take this to avoid getting wet!
0
0
Great view, good visitor centre
1
0
A fabulously good, flat path on a former railway line through the very hilly national park
1
1
Beautiful tunnel which is very photogenic from Ashbourne end
0
0
Tissington trail about 28 miles amazing views with cafe and toilets on the way windy in places awesome biking
1
0
There are over 380 touring cycling routes documented in the Idridgehay and Alton CP area on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging excursions.
The routes in Idridgehay and Alton CP offer a good mix of difficulties. You'll find approximately 34 easy routes, 177 moderate routes, and 174 difficult routes, ensuring options for all experience levels. The terrain often includes rolling hills and quiet country lanes.
Yes, there are easy routes suitable for families. While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, routes with lower difficulty grades and shorter distances, such as those around Carsington Water, are generally more appropriate for a family outing.
Many touring cycling routes in the region are designed as loops. For example, The Carved Wooden Chair – Carsington Water loop from Kirk Ireton is a popular moderate circular route, and Windley to Mugginton Bridleway – Climb Behind Kedleston Hall loop from Turnditch CP offers another circular option.
The routes often pass through varied landscapes including rolling hills, open countryside, and traditional villages. You might cycle alongside water features like Carsington Water or near historic sites such as Kedleston Hall. The area also features natural highlights like Wyver Lane Nature Reserve.
The region is generally pleasant for touring cycling from spring through autumn, when the weather is milder and the countryside is in full bloom or displaying autumnal colours. While some routes may be accessible in winter, conditions can be more challenging due to colder temperatures and potentially wet or icy surfaces.
Yes, there are several longer routes for those seeking a more extensive ride. An example is the challenging Tissington Village – Bradbourne Brook Ford loop from Kirk Ireton, which covers over 40 kilometers and includes a ford crossing.
Many routes start from villages or designated car parks. For example, routes like Scenic Gravel B-Roads – Cromford Mill loop begin from areas like Wirksworth CP (Car Park), and others from Kirk Ireton, offering convenient starting points.
The touring cycling routes in Idridgehay and Alton CP are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 500 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country lanes, the varied terrain, and the scenic beauty of the traditional villages and water bodies.
Given the routes often pass through traditional villages, you will likely find opportunities for refreshments. Many villages in the Derbyshire countryside feature local pubs and cafes where you can stop for a break and a bite to eat.
While specific public transport links directly to every trailhead may vary, many villages in the Idridgehay and Alton CP area are served by local bus routes. Planning your journey in advance to check bus schedules and stops near your chosen route's starting point is recommended.
The region's rolling hills naturally provide numerous scenic vistas. While not explicitly named as 'viewpoint routes', rides through higher elevations or along open countryside, such as sections of the Kirk Ireton Village – High Peak Trail loop, often offer expansive views of the Derbyshire landscape.


Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.