4.3
(160)
1,161
riders
111
rides
Mountain biking around Meltham offers varied landscapes at the southern end of the Pennines, bordering the Peak District National Park. The terrain features extensive moorland, rolling hills, and steep valleys, often incorporating numerous reservoirs. Riders can expect challenging routes with significant elevation gains, alongside more moderate options through woodlands and open countryside. The area provides diverse mountain biking experiences, from moderate loops to hard rides demanding advanced skills.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.5
(15)
54
riders
26.4km
02:11
500m
500m
Moderate 16.4-mile mountain bike loop in Peak District National Park, featuring reservoirs, moorland views, and technical sections.
4.0
(1)
29
riders
23.4km
01:57
490m
490m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(3)
21
riders
46.6km
03:59
1,030m
1,030m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(2)
15
riders
14.2km
01:22
400m
400m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
47.5km
04:17
1,210m
1,210m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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A great place to stop for cafe, cake or a sandwich. Great value and choice too. I sat outside as it was a beautiful summer day. Inside seating is available but it can get busy.
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Some short rocky paved push section going uphill but other than that all pretty consistent to the top. Lung buster for the final few hundred metres.
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Superb down hill section , long and lots of mixed terrain all enjoyable . Watch out for the naked hiker 😂🫣
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Easily accessible from Marsden via the Kirklee way. This is a stunning spot and is the first of a chain of 4 reservoirs in the valley. There are quite a few steps to reach that reservoir but your efforts will be rewarded by the view of this beautiful structure as well as the hills surrounding it. Ideal if you prefer short walks, there is a popular circular under 4 miles from Marsden. Or for longer walk, I really enjoyed taking the 4 reservoirs; Black Hill and Pule hill on a 14 miler in Summer.
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A steep downhill (or uphill from the opposite side) with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Castleshaw reservoirs.
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Digley Reservoir was constructed in the 19th century to supply water to the local area. The area is framed by rolling hills and lush vegetation and offers excellent opportunities for walking, cycling and bird-watching.
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There are over 110 mountain bike trails around Meltham, offering a wide range of experiences. These include 17 easy routes, 81 moderate routes, and 15 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels.
Mountain bike trails around Meltham feature diverse terrain, including extensive moorland, rolling hills, and steep valleys. Many routes incorporate scenic reservoirs and offer views of the Pennines and the bordering Peak District National Park. You can expect a mix of fire roads, singletrack, and technical sections.
Yes, Meltham offers several family-friendly mountain bike trails. For example, the area has 17 routes classified as easy, which are generally suitable for families. These routes often feature less challenging terrain and shorter distances.
Many routes offer scenic views, especially those passing by the numerous reservoirs and through moorland. For instance, the Meltham Moor to Butterley Reservoir loop provides views of Butterley Reservoir and open moorland. You can also find viewpoints like Chew Valley and Chew Hurdles Trail and Yeoman Hey Reservoir along some routes.
The area is rich in natural features. You'll often ride past impressive reservoirs such as Butterley Reservoir, Digley Reservoir, and Dovestone Reservoir. Other notable features include moorland landscapes, Pennine hills, and specific natural monuments like Birchen Clough Waterfall.
Yes, many mountain bike routes around Meltham are circular. Examples include the Meltham Moor to Butterley Reservoir loop and the View of Digley Reservoir – Digley Reservoir loop from Holmfirth, both designed to bring you back to your starting point.
Meltham offers mountain biking opportunities throughout the year. However, spring and autumn often provide the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be excellent, but trails may be busier. Winter rides are possible but require appropriate gear for potentially wet and cold conditions, especially on exposed moorland.
The mountain bike trails around Meltham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 160 reviews. Riders frequently praise the varied terrain, the scenic views of reservoirs and moorland, and the options available for different skill levels, from moderate loops to challenging rides.
Yes, Meltham offers several challenging routes for experienced mountain bikers. For instance, the Harden Moss Climb – View of Digley Reservoir loop from Marsden and the Harden Moss Climb – Butterley Reservoir loop from Marsden are classified as difficult, featuring significant elevation gains and demanding sections.
While specific routes with integrated pub stops are not explicitly detailed, the area around Meltham and nearby villages like Slaithwaite and Holmfirth offer various cafes and pubs. The route The Little Lock Café – Butterley Reservoir loop from Slaithwaite starts near a cafe, providing an opportunity for refreshments before or after your ride.
Meltham is situated at the southern end of the Pennines and borders the Peak District National Park. While not entirely within the park, its proximity means riders have easy access to the diverse terrain and stunning landscapes of the northern part of the Peak District, known as the Dark Peak.


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