Recommended map: The Peak District Dark Peak Area 1:25000, Outdoor Leisure 1

Click on image to return.

Park near the Ladybower reservoir wall near the Yorkshire Bridge Inn at SK202852, other nearby parking areas are also usually available. Cross the reservoir wall, turn right and follow a good track along the reservoir edge for 5km until it curves right, crosses the feeder river and into a car park. Exit the car park onto the A57, turn left and cycle easily for about 3km to a minor cross road. Turn right, pass Rowlee Farm and continue steeply up zigzags which are all cyclable (just). At the high point where there are several tracks turn left (the main track), descend past Lockerbrook Farm, go through a gate and follow the stony track which rises gently then bends right, eventually dropping steeply to a minor road at Ouzelden Clough - a leg of Derwent Reservoir. Turn left and continue north past Howden Reservoir, round Westend Clough and eventually to the end of the surfaced section by a gate. Continue along the undulating track through woods to the packhorse bridge at Slippery Stones.

Cross the bridge and A little way beyond the track turns sharply right (marked cycleway), follow this past all the three reservoirs. There are a couple of nice descents but do be aware that this is a popular route with family groups so be considerate. Eventually, the track emerges back on the A57 by the Ashopton Viaduct, turn left - cycles are permitted on the opposite pavement, turn right at the traffic lights and easily back to the starting point. Allow 2.5 hours cycling time.

Note 1, on joining a stretch of surfaced road at the start of the Ladybower reservoir it is possible to divert right for refreshments at Fairhomes.

Note 2. This is a good winter route as it doesn't get too muddy and has a couple of good escape routes should conditions become unpleasant.

Points of interest. Birds of prey, Dambusters practice reservoir, scenery.