The best cycling routes around Ogston Reservoir

There are over 270 touring cycling routes available around Ogston Reservoir, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options to explore the area.

The routes around Ogston Reservoir feature diverse landscapes, including scenic views over the water, surrounding Derbyshire countryside, farmland, and woodland. While many surfaces are paved, some segments may be unpaved, offering a varied terrain experience.

Yes, there are routes suitable for families. For example, the area offers 25 easy routes, which are generally shorter and have less elevation, making them ideal for a more relaxed family outing. Always check individual route details for suitability.

While cycling, you can enjoy views of the man-made Ogston Reservoir itself, which is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) known for its ecological value. The area also features historical elements, as the reservoir was created by flooding the village of Woolley and a section of the Ashover Light Railway. Nearby attractions include the Five Pits Trail and the charming villages of Ashover and Brackenfield.

Many routes, such as the View of Ogston Reservoir – The Old Poets Corner loop, start from Wessington CP (Car Park), indicating that parking facilities are available in the vicinity. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for specific parking information.

Ogston Reservoir is a beautiful destination year-round. However, it is nationally renowned as a premier birdwatching site, especially during winter months when rare migrants can be spotted. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours for extended rides. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While the region is generally dog-friendly, specific rules for dogs on cycling trails can vary. It's best to check the details of individual routes or local signage for any restrictions, especially in nature-sensitive areas like the SSSI. Always keep dogs under control and clean up after them.

Yes, some routes are designed to include refreshment stops. For instance, the Countryside View – Chase Café loop explicitly mentions a café, and the View of Ogston Reservoir – The Old Poets Corner loop suggests a pub stop. The charming villages of Ashover and Brackenfield nearby also offer options for refreshments.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 210 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, scenic views over the water and countryside, and the variety of routes catering to different ability levels.

Absolutely. Ogston Reservoir offers 135 difficult routes for experienced cyclists. An example is the St. Michael's Church – Ogston Reservoir West Car Park loop, which covers nearly 40 km with significant elevation gain, providing a demanding ride.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Ogston Reservoir are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Higham Stone Cross – View of the Five Pits Trail loop and the Holy Trinity Church – St. Michael's Church loop, which are designed for convenient round trips.

Route durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. For instance, a moderate route like the Holy Trinity Church – St. Michael's Church loop (12.3 km) might take around 1 hour, while a more difficult and longer route such as the St. Michael's Church – Ogston Reservoir West Car Park loop (39.5 km) could take over 2.5 hours. Always check the estimated duration for your chosen route.