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Cycling routes
United Kingdom
England
West Midlands Region
Staffordshire
Staffordshire Moorlands

Ilam

The best cycling routes around Ilam

4.8

(583)

7,790

riders

238

rides

Touring cycling routes around Ilam traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and varied terrain. The region features a mix of paved roads and unpaved trails, offering routes suitable for different cycling proficiencies. Elevations vary, providing options from minimal gain to more challenging ascents. The area is known for its tea gardens and natural forests, which contribute to the scenic backdrop for cycling.

Best touring cycling routes around Ilam

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Bike parking at Thor's Cave – The Manifold Way loop from Thor's Cave, a 14.1 miles (22.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 28 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows the scenic Manifold Way through the valley.
  • Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Tissington Trail – Tissington Trail Summit loop from Thorpe CP, a difficult 31.3 miles (50.3 km) path. This route utilizes the Tissington Trail, offering a longer ride with significant elevation gain.
  • Local touring cyclists also love the The Old Inn – Ashbourne Tunnel loop from Ilam, a 12.3 miles (19.8 km) trail leading through local villages and countryside, often completed in about 1 hour 28 minutes.
  • Touring cycling around Ilam is defined by rolling hills, river valleys, and former railway lines converted into trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family rides to more challenging long-distance routes.
  • The routes in Ilam are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 600 reviews. More than 9,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Ilam's varied terrain.

Last updated: June 23, 2026

4.8

(30)

392

riders

#1.

Tissington Village – Tissington Trail loop from Fenny Bentley

27.7km

01:52

240m

240m

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Ilam

Mythical adventures and magical beauty – Peak District hikes

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Mythical adventures and magical beauty – Peak District hikes

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Tips from the Community

Karen C
July 26, 2025, The Manifold Way

A nice tarmac trail.

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One of the many trails in the Peak District. You can cycle just this route, or join it up with others nearby.

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If there are people in the cave you can hear them from the trail. It is possible to climb up to the cave.

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Coffee hatch also selling ice cream and cake

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Richard
June 21, 2025, Coffee Shop

Tissington trail

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Quite a few people hike up, but I didn't. The Manifold Trail is great anyway

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Narrow cutting and bridge on old railway track

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Great views here where the trails cross and just up the trail is a cafe with toilets if you fancy a break

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Ilam?

There are over 240 touring cycling routes around Ilam, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 9,000 times.

Are there easy, family-friendly touring cycling routes in Ilam?

Yes, Ilam offers several easy touring cycling routes suitable for families. For instance, the Brown End Farm Cycle Hire loop from Thor's Cave is an easy 11.3 km route, perfect for a relaxed ride.

What are some challenging long-distance touring cycling routes near Ilam?

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Tissington Trail – Tissington Trail Summit loop from Thorpe CP is a difficult 50.3 km route with significant elevation gain, utilizing the scenic Tissington Trail.

Are there circular touring cycling routes around Ilam?

Many routes around Ilam are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Bike parking at Thor's Cave – The Manifold Way loop from Thor's Cave, which follows the scenic Manifold Way, and The Old Inn – Ashbourne Tunnel loop from Ilam.

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ilam?

Touring cycling routes around Ilam feature a diverse landscape of rolling hills, river valleys, and former railway lines converted into trails. You'll encounter a mix of paved roads and unpaved sections, with elevations varying from gentle climbs to more challenging ascents.

What natural attractions can I see along the touring cycling routes in Ilam?

The Ilam area is rich in natural beauty. Along your rides, you can discover landmarks such as Thorpe Cloud, the picturesque Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove, and the iconic Thor's Cave. Other notable spots include Reynard’s Cave and Natural Arch and the scenic Wolfscote Dale.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ilam?

The touring cycling routes in Ilam are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 600 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the beauty of the Manifold Way, and the well-maintained former railway trails like the Tissington Trail, which offer a rewarding experience through the region's scenic landscapes.

Are there any viewpoints accessible by touring bike in Ilam?

Yes, the region offers several viewpoints. For example, the Revidge Trig Point provides panoramic views, and many routes offer vistas of the rolling hills and river valleys characteristic of the area.

What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Ilam?

While specific conditions vary, spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Ilam, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though conditions may be cooler and wetter.

Are there options for different difficulty levels among Ilam's touring cycling routes?

Absolutely. Ilam's touring cycling network caters to all abilities. You'll find 25 easy routes, 117 moderate routes, and 107 difficult routes, ensuring there's a suitable option whether you're a beginner or an advanced cyclist.

Can I find routes that combine cycling with exploring local villages?

Yes, many routes around Ilam pass through charming local villages and countryside. The The Old Inn – Ashbourne Tunnel loop from Ilam is a great example, leading you through the heart of the local area.

Most popular routes around Ilam

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