BBCG Peak District weekend

We will ride the High Peak Trail trail (NCN 54) on the Sunday (26th). This is on the bed of an old railway line, and has a good gravel surface. From the start, at Parsley Hay car park/visitor centre, we will head to Middleton Top, where there is a cafe/visitor centre. It is pretty flat, on a plateau. We will stop there for refreshments before heading back to the start. The trail does continue down a long steep hill to High Peak junction in the Derwent valley, but we won't be doing that.
On the Monday we can do the Tissington trail (NCN 68), which starts in Ashbourne (don't have to drive anywhere) and heads north to Parsley Hay, and a mile or two beyond. It is gently uphill for a few miles before flattening out, meaning an easier downhill run back.
Tuesday morning options include the Manifold and Monsal trails, before heading home later in the day.
Plans may change depending on the weather.
Distances are about 20-25 miles, with options to make them longer or shorter as appropriate. We won't be racing, with time to enjoy the scenery.
Please note that the High Peak and Tissington trails are over 1000 feet above sea level in places, and will feel colder than in the valleys. You may need warmer clothing.
In places there are tunnels. They are lit but please bring lights if you have them.

This is a BBCG (Berkshire and Buckinghamshire Cycle Group) weekend away in the Peak District, cycling on some of the rail trails. The plan is to travel to the start location on the morning of Sunday 26th May 2024, where we can ride on the Tissington trail. We will stay at the Ashbourne Travelodge on the nights of Sunday the 26th May 2024 and Monday 27th May, returning home after a morning ride on Tuesday 28th May. Please make their own travel and Hotel arrangements. There may be the possibility of lifts. I have booked into the Travelodge in Ashbourne, (Carnation Way DE6 1AY)

The plan is to ride on rail trails, which are mainly traffic free, although there will be walkers and other cyclists. There may be the occasional section of minor road. The plan will be to ride out and back along the trail, but with the possibility of diverting onto minor roads if desired. We will be there on Sunday pm, all day Monday, and Tuesday am, with the intention of doing a different trail each day., starting with the Tissington trail on the Sunday.

There will be cafe stops available. on all the trails.

Cycle helmets are required. Pumps and tools, including puncture repair kits and spare tubes are advisable. You will need to pay to park at Parsley Hay car park. There is a cafe and cycle hire facilities. Cash/cards will be required to purchase refreshments. Not suitable for lightweight racing bikes, with narrow tyres and little or no tread, due to being offroad. Please ensure that your bike is in a road worthy condition. Please arrive at departure point 15 minutes early, for a safety briefing and bike safety check. We never leave anyone behind . Check the weather! Make sure you've brought the right clothing, equipment and provisions so you have an enjoyable experience.

We never leave anyone behind