Derbyshire is one of the UK’s best-loved cycling destinations, with quiet country lanes, scenic trails, and routes to suit all abilities. Whether you’re looking for a gentle family ride, a traffic-free cycle path, or a more challenging climb with rewarding views, the Peak District and Derbyshire Dales have plenty to offer.

Staying at Peak and Dale Places properties puts you close to some of the region’s most popular trails, and with excellent local hire options available, you don’t need to worry about bringing your own bikes. From e-bikes and mountain bikes to child trailers, there’s something to suit every rider.

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Derbyshire’s landscapes at your own pace. Many trails are traffic-free and safe for families, while keen cyclists can take on some of the more challenging routes through the hills. After a day in the saddle, you’ll return to your Peak and Dale Places property ready to relax and recharge.

Looking for cycling and cycle hire in Derbyshire? This guide covers some of the best Peak District bike routes, family-friendly trails and local cycle hire options near Peak and Dale Places.

Best Cycling Routes in Derbyshire and the Peak District

The Peak District and Derbyshire countryside are brilliant for cycling, with a mix of easy family-friendly trails, scenic former railway lines and longer routes for more confident riders. Many of the best-known trails are traffic-free, making them ideal for relaxed days out with children, mixed-ability groups or anyone who wants big views without battling busy roads. From the gentle loop around Carsington Water to the tunnels and viaducts of the Monsal Trail, these routes are a great way to explore the landscape at your own pace.

Cycle Hire in Derbyshire

There are several well-placed cycle hire centres across the Peak District and Derbyshire, making it easy to enjoy a day out on two wheels without bringing bikes from home. Many are located directly on popular trails, including the Tissington Trail, High Peak Trail, Monsal Trail and Carsington Water loop, so you can park up, collect your bikes and head straight out. Options usually include standard bikes, children’s bikes, trailers, tandems and e-bikes, with some centres also offering adapted cycles for more accessible riding.

Tissington Trail

Ashbourne Cycle Hire – Ashbourne, DE6 1ST | Tel: 01335 343156
Based at the start of the Tissington Trail. Offers bikes, trailers, tandems, and e-bikes.

Parsley Hay Cycle Hire – Bakewell, SK17 0DG | Tel: 01298 84493
Convenient for both the High Peak and Tissington Trails. Wide range of bikes including adapted cycles.

High Peak Trail

Middleton Top Cycle Hire – Cromford, DE4 4LS | Tel: 01629 533298
Located at Middleton Top on the High Peak Trail. Ideal for longer rides through dramatic Peak District scenery.

Parsley Hay Cycle Hire – Bakewell, SK17 0DG | Tel: 01298 84493
Convenient for both the High Peak and Tissington Trails. Wide range of bikes including adapted cycles.

Monsal Trail

Monsal Trail Cycle Hire – Hassop Station, DE45 1NW | Tel: 01629 810588
Situated on the Monsal Trail. Family-friendly hire centre with café, bookshop, and parking.

Electric Bike Hire and Guided Cycling in the Peak District

For those who want to explore a little further, tackle the hills more comfortably or enjoy a more tailored cycling experience, specialist and electric bike hire is a great option. E-bikes make Derbyshire’s rolling countryside much more accessible, especially for mixed-ability groups or riders who want the views without quite so much leg burn. Several local providers also offer guided rides, delivery services, repairs and route advice, helping you make the most of the Peak District’s quieter lanes, villages and viewpoints.

Ready to Start Planning Your Stay?

Whether you’re organising a family celebration, countryside retreat, walking weekend or group getaway with friends, we’d love to help you find the right property for your stay.

Our collection of large group houses across Derbyshire and near the Peak District has been carefully chosen to bring people together in beautiful surroundings — with space to relax, celebrate and create memorable weekends away.