Muscle-churning climbs and spectacular views, following quiet single-track lanes right around the dramatic Dark Peak summit of Chinley Churn and Cracken Edge, looping through New Mills, Hayfield and Chinley.
Route details
- Distance
10.9 miles / 17.5 km - Elevation Gain
463 m / 1519 ft - Time allow 1 ½ hours
- Difficulty
Challenging - Suited to
All Bikes
Gravel Bikes
Mountain Bikes - Notes All on road except 1km of mostly reasonable-ish bridleway to avoid very busy road. Steep climbs, narrow lanes.
- Suggested Start New Mills SK22 4AQ SJ 9997 8554
- Places Birch Vale, Chinley, Chinley Churn, Chinley Head, Derbyshire, Gowhole, Hayfield, High Peak, Lantern Pike, New Mills, Thornsett
- Attributes Accessible by train, Car parking, Circular loop, Ideal for electric bikes, Pubs and cafés, Railways, Rural heritage, Steep climbs, Towns and villages, Views of hills and peaks, Views of open countryside
How to unlock
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What you’ll receive
You’ll be provided immediately with the link to a hidden page where all these extra downloads and guides (marked Plus) can be accessed. Return any time to access new and updated content just thanks to that single contribution. As an extra bonus, I’ve made sure Plus guide pages are completely ad-free.
Thanks for your support!
I’m reserving these original routes and extra pages exclusively for supporters. The one-off contribution supports my work and website costs, with miles of cycling inspiration in return. This online guidebook is still growing, I’m nowhere near done yet, so it’s a great investment in my future plans. Thank you!
Anthony
Original photography, words, routes and design by Anthony Sheridan. Found this page helpful? Buy me a coffee to help keep the wheels turning!
The all-important disclaimer: While great care and attention has been put into gathering these routes, ensuring details are accurate and determining their suitability, all information should be used as a guide only and is not a replacement for using your own judgement or research when setting out on new adventures. Peaks & Puddles/the author cannot be held responsible for any issues that may arise from the riders own decision to ride a section of indicated route.
Always ensure your equipment is safe and legal for use and that you are well prepared, carrying everything necessary including access to a good map. Follow the Highway Code and the Countryside Code at all times. Respect the landscape, the wildlife and the people you encounter. And after all that, have fun!


