THE PEAK DISTRICT
Boasting a full seven killer climbs within its 96km, this ride takes in the best of the Peak District and everything in between. Using Castleton as your base, head east out of town, turn left in Hope and enter the Vale of Edale. This will bring you face to face with the first challenge of the day, Mam Nick. This stunning climb takes you up past Mam Tor to begin your trek eastwards towards Curbar Edge. The most beautiful climb along this ridge, the lower slopes will really punish your legs, with little time to recover as you head south through Beeley to take on Rowsley Bar. With two 25 per cent corners, this climb has been the undoing of many a strong rider, so do be warned.
After this brute, it’s time to head back west to Bakewell, up through Manners Wood, onto Longstone Ridge to return via one more peak into Castleton. You can end the ride here, but ahead of you is the jewel in the Peak District’s crown – Winnats Pass. A relentless path of narrow 20 per cent asphalt cut through the giant limestone cleft, it’s a thing of both horror and beauty, and the perfect way to end such a short but demanding loop.