The High Peak Trail with a Bonsall Drop

Service Description

This tour presents more of a test of technical ability being one of the harder routes we have designed. It involves some gnarly bridleways and the crossing of fields. However, the views are sensational, and you will visit remote places you are unlikely to see unless out for walk. From Ambergate the Cromford Canal is followed northwards to just beyond Whatstandwell where the River Derwent is crossed. A wonderful minor road and tracks then take you along the Mid Shires Way to join the High Peak Trail. This classic bike route is rich with industrial history and eventually passes through Black Rock where more technical biking will be experienced. The High Peak Trail to the north follows Brassington Lane. But before reaching Harboro Rocks a more technically difficult section of the route will take you down fields, tracks and bridleways to the crossroads at Grangemill. Farm tracks are then followed across Bonsall Moor. Look out for objects in the sky as this is Britain’s UFO hotspot! A small extension to the route will reward you with a visit our Winster hub for refreshment at the Miners Standard. Old farm tracks and trading routes are followed before a rougher, gnarly route drops down into Bonsall. Explore the 'Bohemian' village passing by the Barley Mow pub and the Fountain café. A short stretch of the Via Gelia main road is taken to emerge near Cromford pond. It is then out to experience Cromford Mill World Heritage site with its museum, cafe's and shopping opportunities. The route of the Cromford Canal eventually directs you back to Whatstandwell with an opportunity for a coffee at the Family Tree before your steps are retraced back to Ambergate. Difficulty - Black Advanced Tour Themes - Historic Sites, Towns & Villages Surface - Main Road, minor roads, cycle tracks, tracks, tow path, bridleways, fields, bike may require dismounting and pushed for a short section. Distance - 22.9 miles Time Allocated - 6 hours Refreshment Stop Options - Ambergate, Black Rock, Winster, Bonsall, Cromford, Cromford Mills & Whatstandwell Tour Ref - 39