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Also known as the Manifold Track or Manifold Trail, the former Leek and Manifold Valley Light Railway provides a uniquely twisting, turning and well-surfaced cycle route nestled below Thor’s Cave and epic hills.
Route details
- Distance
16.6 miles / 26.7 km - Elevation Gain 98 m / 321 ft
- Time allow 2 hours
- Difficulty
Gentle - Terrain 76% Off-Road Path Traffic-free trails, towpaths & cycleways 24% Road Quieter lanes, sometimes brief busier roads 0% Unpaved Bumpier tracks & bridleways
- Suited to All Bikes Gravel Bikes Mountain Bikes Non-Standard Cycles
- Notes Level throughout with a mostly tarmac surface and good access. Note one small section including a tunnel merges with a quiet minor road.
All Bikes
Gravel Bikes
Mountain Bikes
Non-Standard Cycles- Suggested Start Hulme End SK17 0EZ SK 1028 5929
- Places Beeston Tor, Butterton, Ecton, Grindon, Hulme End, Staffordshire, Thor's Cave, Waterhouses, Wetton
- Attributes Bridges, Car parking, Cycle hire, Family-friendly, Industrial heritage, National Cycle Network, Out and back, Pubs and cafés, Railways, Reasonably flat, Rivers, Suitable for older kids, Suitable for young kids, Tunnels, Views of hills and peaks
A complete guide to the Manifold Way with a stage-by-stage tour, original photos and helpful tips is coming soon.
Route map
Original photography, words and design by Anthony Sheridan unless indicated otherwise. Found this guide 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!