Day 1: Arrive Matlock
Arrive at your accommodation with time to explore this enchanting town.
Day 2: Matlock - Hartington (20 or 29 miles)
Heading south through Matlock Bath you will pass through Cromford, a model village made famous by Richard Arkwright after he built his 1st mill in 1771 & known for being a pioneer of the industrial revolution. Joining the High Peak Trail takes you to the fine viewpoint at Middleton Top, before you continue along this flat traffic free bridleway to the charming village of Hartington. The village is home to Derbyshire’s last remaining cheese factory which can still be bought from the dairy shop. You may wish to extend your ride & take in the scenic traffic free trail around the banks of Carsington Water. Your accommodation for the night is at the 17th century hall, a fine example of a typical Peak District manor house.
Day 3: Hartington - Eyam (30 miles)
Leaving Hartington you will pass Arbor Low Henge, a Neolithic Stone Age circle known locally as ‘Stone Henge of the Peak’. Peddling through pretty villages such as Middleton & Youlgreave takes you to Bakewell, an attractive stone built town famous for its Bakewell Tart or ‘pudding’ as it is known locally. Climb to the fantastic viewpoint at Monsal Head before continuing along the banks of the river Wye through Cressbrook & Litton to ‘Cathederal of the Peak’ Tideswell. This pleasant village has a nice 15th century cathedral along with galleries & local craft shops which provides a great rest stop. Passing through Great Hucklow takes you to the fantastic ridge looking out to Abney Low before dropping down to the infamous plague village of Eyam.
Day 4: Eyam - Matlock (16 or 19 miles)
A great road out of Eyam affords fantastic views out to Froggatt, Curbur & Baslow Edges before dropping to Baslow & on through the Chatsworth Estate. Pass through the interesting historic village of Stanton in Peak & Birchover to arrive at Winster. This pleasant village has some fine 18th century houses, however the most impressive building must be the Market House. Owned by the national Trust the rugged Market House dates from the 17th century & is a reminder of Winster’s past importance as a market town. A fantastic decent through Wensley back to Matlock provides a memorable end to this comprehensive tour.
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