5 Great Cycling Day Trips for your Easter Weekend; Near to Sheffield

 

Easter weekend is fast approaching, providing many of us with a welcome four-day weekend. The break is sure to inspire cycling enthusiasts to get out on their bikes and explore the local area, with many fantastic spots well within reach of Sheffield.

With the countryside right on the doorstep of the city, narrowing down the possibilities of where to cycle can be something of a task. This guide aims to provide 5 varied places as options for cyclists to venture to, spend the day and then travel back from. A mix of historical and family-orientated venues ensures there is something for everybody here. With some nice weather predicted, you may even manage to do more than one.

 

stanage-edgeStanage Edge

Situated in the heart of the Peak District National Park, Stanage Edge attracts visitors from far and wide. As the largest of the grit stone edges in the surrounding area, it provides unparalleled views of the Derbyshire countryside and Hathersage. It can be very simply reached by bike and provides a great base for a few hours of countryside exploration. The ridge is over 4 miles long, and up to 458m at its highest point. The wild moorland and exposed cliffs make for a stunning backdrop for walkers, whilst also providing an excellent platform for climbers.

Cycle route option from the city

Simply cycle out from the Bents Green area of Sheffield; out along Ringinglow Road until you reach Stanage Edge.

 

Longshaw-estateLongshaw Estate

Ancient woods, parkland and heather moorland are some of the many beautiful characteristics that make the visit of Longshaw Estate a must. This National Trust site is home to gentle streams and is steeped in history. The café and shop ensure you can spend a day out here; enabling you to take in views of Stanage Edge, Derwent Valley and Chatsworth.

Cycle route option from the city

Cycle out along Eccelsall Road out to the Dore suburbs of Sheffield. Proceed out into the countryside along the A6187 to Fox House. Follow the bend round past the Fox House pub before taking a left turn onto the B6521. Once on this road take the first left almost immediately onto Longshaw Estate.

 

chesnut-centreChesnut Wildlife Centre

Founded in 1984; the Chesnut Centre plays home to animals including otters and owls. This impressive wildlife park provides the ideal location for a family outing with a difference and is sure to be a hit with new visitors. Situated in the High Peak area near Chapel-en-le-Frith, the Chesnut Centre provides beautiful, picturesque views of the Peak District. The Giant Otter and Asian Short Clawed Otter are two of the rare highlights; alongside 2 Scottish Wildcats – an animal which has been dubbed ‘the British Tiger’.

Cycle route option from the city

Cycle out from the Dore area of the city out through Hathersage, Hope Valley and Castleton until you reach Winnets Pass. From here take the A6187 out towards Chapel-en-le-Frith. The Chesnut Centre is on the right as you make your decent back down from the high peaks in to Chapel-en-le-Frith.

 

Chatsworth-houseChatsworth

This 16th Century home of the Duke and Duchess of Derbyshire is located right in the heart of the Peak District, in close proximity to Bakewell. The grounds are breathtaking and play home to varying, picturesque scenery. The magnificent stately home, sprawling gardens and tumbling rivers are just some of many highlights. There is also an adventure playground if you wish to make it a family outing, and an award-winning farm shop selling excellent local produce. The grounds of Chatsworth spread over 1000 acres; and that coupled with the fact there are an array of cafes and restaurants to choose from, ensures that you can make this an extensive day out.

Cycle route option from the city

Cycle out from Sheffield along Hathersage Road (A625) towards Fox House. Just as you pass the Fox House pub turn immediately left to merge onto the A6187. At the next junction take the first right and cycle down the A625 towards Calver. As you cycle into Calver carry on the A625 until you reach a junction. Here, turn left onto the A623.Travel along the A623 and shortly you will reach a roundabout. Take the first right onto Bakwell Road. Continue straight and join the B0162 which will take you into the Chatsworth grounds.

 

ladybower-resevoirLadybower Resevoir

One of the landmarks of the Peak District, this large Y-shaped reservoir is the lowest of three in the Upper Derwent valley. Built between 1935 and 1943, this reservoir then took a further two years to fill. The old villages of Derwent and Ashopton had to be flooded in order for the reservoir to be filled, as many residents were relocated. This location provides an excellent base to cycle around, providing fantastic views and varied terrain to visitors.

Cycle route option from the city

From the Crosspool area of Sheffield, you can simply cycle out along the A57 all the way out to Ladybower reservoir, on a route that takes in the city as well as the countryside. Alternatively, follow Hathersage Road (A625) out towards Fox House. You don’t need to make any turns as the road reaches the A6187. Simply carry on out towards Hathersage, cycling straight through here on to Castelton Road. As you reach a set of traffic lights, turn right onto the A6013 and cycle through Bamford. Follow this road until you reach Ladybower Resevoir on your left.

 

 

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