Best Routes – Peak District – Back o’th Brook

If you’re searching for a quintessential (and if I say best) Peak District cycling loop, the “Back O’th Brook” ride delivers everything: scenic panoramas, quiet backroads, charming cafes – and just enough challenge to make it satisfying.

This route speed shouth, getting over the peak to head towards the quieter South West Peak District. Riding through Bakewell, and up the Birchover climb to get past Winster and Longcliffe. The roads out of Bakewell to Longcliffe are not the quietest but they are fast on a bike and the simplest way to get where we’re heading to.

Following the climb to Longcliffe there’s a sweeping descent to enjoy. Turning right we meet the first Ford of the day to head up Bent Lane and into the Peak. These little lanes take you to through the beautiful vilages of Tissington, Thorpe and into Ilam.

Reaching Ilam you can take a break and grab a cup of tea and a scone at arguable the most beautiful spot for a cuppa in the Peaks – Ilam National Trust

Leaving Ilam, this is where we hit some of the best and quietest roads in the peak, the climb out of Ilam is steep but worth it for the views and serenity of the climb.

the route meanders around the lanes and then drops you into Butterton – Beware – don’t try to navigate the Ford unless you are very sure of your traction. It’s very mossy and safer to dismount and walk over the bridge.

Looping back around the route scoops around to Hulme End, and not far beyond lies Hartington, where the General Stores offers some of the best coffee and cake on the route—a relaxed refuel before the final push. Then you can commence the push up Parsley Hay and into Monyash for the route back towards Sheffield.

The route is approximately 115km with 2000+ m of climbing, but it has to be one of my all time favourite routes into and around the peak. This route is one I’ve gone back to time and time again, summer, winter in reverse it’s got it all. I hope you enjoy!