Trails
Hayfield to Whaley Bridge - High Peak Road Cycling Route
This scenic route takes in the high point of Kettleshulme for far-reaching views.
About
Passing through the vibrant High Peak towns of New Mills and Whaley Bridge, where there are numerous options for coffee stops and refreshments, and including a heart-pumping climb to Kettleshulme, this intermediate road bike ride follows mostly well-paved roads and requires a good level of fitness.
The start of the route in Hayfield, has excellent public transport links and is easily accessed via bus or train.
The route also passes through the charming villages of Chinley and Buxworth, and through the former industrial hub of Buxworth Basin, known today for its scenic marina.
Route length: 17.4 miles
Surface: Paved
Ascent: Intermediate, full details in GPX file.
Trail directions
Start in the pretty village of Hayfield, which lies in the valley of the River Sett, on the very edge of the Peak District. Follow New Mills Road out of Hayfield.
Take the road towards Thornsett.
Drop down into the town of New Mills via Spring Bank. New Mills is set in an area of spectacular natural beauty, standing high above a natural rocky gorge known as The Torrs, where the River Sett joins the River Goyt. Punctuated by impressive viaducts and historic mill buildings, the town boasts a mix of independent shops, cafés and pubs, a lively programme of events and a thriving arts scene
Climb out of New Mills via Hague Bar.
Take Waterside Road to the town of Disley.
Pass through Disley, leaving the town via Buxton Old Road.
Turn onto Mudhurst Lane.
Follow Higher Lane to Reed Hill, a challenging climb that is rewarded with breahtaking views.
At Macclesfield Road, turn left to Kettleshulme.
Pass through Kettleshulme and follow Macclesfield Road towards Whaley Bridge.
Known as the ‘Gateway to the Goyt Valley’, the town of Whaley Bridge is located at the head of the scenic Peak Forest Canal; a great place which offers tranquil walks and a charming selection of shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants. Pass Toddbrook Reservoir. After recharing your batteries, leave the town via Bings Road.
Follow Broodside Road to the town of Buxworth, a former industrial hub. There are plenty of opportunities for refreshments, including waterside pubs and scenic canalside walks. Bugsworth Canal Basin, on the Peak Forest Canal, was once the largest and busiest inland port on the narrow canal system and the only one to survive intact. Today, it's popular with boaters and a great place to boat-watch.
Leave Buxworth via Brierley Green.
From Brierley Green, follow Leaden Knowle towards the charming village of Chinley, a small rural village with a selection of shops and cafes.
Leave Chinley via Maynestone Road
Turn onto Chapel Road briefly, before forking right via Highgate Road back to your starting point in Hayfield.
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