The best gravel rides around Shirley

There are over 15 gravel bike trails around Shirley, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes primarily utilize former railway lines, natural valleys, and feature water bodies like Carsington Water.

The routes around Shirley cater to various skill levels. You'll find easy loops, such as the Ashbourne Tunnel – Tissington Village loop from Ashbourne CP, which is 8.8 miles long. There are also moderate and difficult routes, with 6 moderate and 8 difficult trails available, some requiring advanced riding skills.

Yes, many gravel routes in Shirley are designed as loops. For example, the popular Tissington Trail – Bradbourne Brook Ford loop from Ashbourne CP offers a 22.6-mile circular ride, incorporating sections of the Tissington Trail and a ford crossing.

You can expect varied scenery, including open countryside, wooded areas, and views of water features like Carsington Water. Many trails follow former railway lines, providing relatively flat sections, while others feature ascents and descents through natural valleys. The region is well-suited for exploring the Derbyshire Dales.

Along the routes, you can encounter several interesting points. The Ashbourne Tunnel is a unique feature on some trails. You can also enjoy views of Carsington Water and pass through picturesque areas like Tissington Village. For those interested in natural landmarks, Thorpe Cloud is also nearby.

Yes, for a longer adventure, consider the Monsal Trail Stone Arch Bridge – Monsal Trail loop from Ashbourne CP. This challenging route spans approximately 76.9 miles (123.8 km) and offers an extensive exploration of the area's former railway lines and scenic landscapes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 12 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the blend of well-maintained paths and more challenging sections, and the scenic beauty of the Derbyshire Dales, especially routes that incorporate the Tissington Trail and Carsington Water.

Yes, there are easier options perfect for families or those new to gravel biking. The Ashbourne Tunnel – Tissington Village loop from Ashbourne CP is an easy 8.8-mile path that offers a gentler ride through the Ashbourne Tunnel and past Tissington Village, making it a good choice for a relaxed outing.

Absolutely. The region is known for its water features. The View of Carsington Water – Carsington Water loop from Ashbourne CP is a popular 25.5-mile trail that leads directly through the Carsington Water area, offering beautiful lakeside views. Carsington Water itself is a significant highlight in the area.

The more difficult routes, such as the High Peak Trail – Matlock Bath loop from Hognaston CP, often feature significant elevation changes, covering over 600 meters of ascent. These trails can include varied surfaces, from well-maintained gravel to sections that might be more rugged or require advanced riding skills, sometimes even pushing your bike on challenging parts.

Many routes, particularly those starting from Ashbourne, often have designated car parks. For example, several popular loops, including the Tissington Trail and Carsington Water routes, begin from 'Ashbourne CP' (Car Park), indicating convenient parking access for riders.

While gravel biking can be enjoyed year-round, the spring and autumn months often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be great, but trails might be busier. Winter rides are possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy or wet conditions, especially on less-maintained sections.