The Best Family Cycling in the Peak District
A Short Flat Traffic-Free Cycle Route, the Goyt Valley Near Buxton
Nov 6, 2009
The historic Goyt Valley is only a few miles from the spa town of Buxton in the British Peak District National Park. A short flat traffic-free cycling route follows the east side of the Fernilee reservoir and provides an ideal family cycling route in beautiful surroundings.
The Goyt Valley Easily Accessible From Nearby Buxton
The Goyt Valley is situated in the North West part of the Peak District National Park in England. From Buxton in the High Peak follow the A5004 to Whaley Bridge. Approximately 2 miles north of Buxton follow the minor road left to the Goyt Valley Reservoirs. A small free parking area is available shortly before reaching the Errwood reservoir dam. If this parking area is full follow the road to reach a much larger parking area across the Errwood dam.
Flat Cycling Alongside the Fernilee Reservoir in the Peak District
This short flat traffic-free cycle route follows a disused railway track along the side of Fernilee reservoir and provides an ideal easy cycle route for family cycling. The surface is tarmacked for a short stretch then the rest of the way is a wide well made ash track. There are no barriers between the track and the reservoir banking and whilst this will provide no difficulty for most, it may render the route unsuitable for young children, who cannot as yet not be relied on to stick to a straight line when cycling.
From the parking area at the south end of the reservoir, as described above, descend the tarmac track to the reservoir. This first short stretch is easily cycleable for competent adult cyclists, but may need to be walked if there are juniors in the party. Once down to the level of the reservoir the track is easily followed along the east shore of the reservoir and provides flat easy cycling with extensive views across the valley.
The route alongside the reservoir is approximately two kilometers in length and it is best to return along the same route.
Access for all, a Level Route Providing Miles Without Stiles
Wheelchair users would be best advised to access the route from the north. Park at the Fernilee reservoir dam and thus avoid the steep descent and re-ascent to the start of the track which is encountered if parking at the south end of the reservoir.
To reach the north parking area leave Buxton on the A5004 as described above, but ignore the left turning to the reservoirs as described above. Instead continue along the road towards Whaley Bridge for a further three miles before once again looking for a minor road on the left.
The Historic Peak District National Park
The disused railway line that the cycle route follows was part of the Cromford and High Peak railway which was completed in 1831.
Fernilee Reservoir was built in 1938 by the Stockport Corporation. Prior to the flooding of the valley to create the reservoir the site had been occupied by Chilworth Gunpowder factory. When the reservoir is especially low some ruined remains of the buildings may be seen.
Work started on the Errwood reservoir in 1964 and it was officially opened by the Duchess of Kent in 1968
Places to Explore in the Peak District National Park Near the Cycle Route
A single track road runs south alongside Errwood reservoir, past Derbyshire Bridge and is well worth following to enjoy the amazing scenery. The road is one way for the most part (north to south) and is closed on Sundays to encourage walkers, cyclist and horse riders. The road comes out a very short distance from the Cat and Fiddle Pub; the second highest pub in Britain the Cat and Fiddle serves Robinson's beers and home made food.
The Goyt valley is only a few miles outside the spa town of Buxton where the visitor will find plentiful food, hotels and other accommodation options. Buxton has a pleasant pedestrianised town centre and lovely well maintained public park areas which include children's playgrounds and a new permanent orienteering course.
The permanent orienteering course is suitable for all ages.
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