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So unlike most threads; and to my detriment, most threads I start - I'm not looking for the most tech-gnarr possible.
I'm happy to try and hunt down a GPX using strava segments or google - but could I ask for suggestions for easier natural trail rides (not loose and steep; for someone new to mountain biking) in the Peak. In terms of difficulty, I'm thinking a little easier than your average trail centre red; ridable on an xc hardtail. We tried Ilkley moor and had a few too many otb's!
Between 20 and 40km; also ideally without too much hike a bike.
Eastern edges route is a good start? Rideable on a gravel bike in fact but some nice sections which are more fun taken with a bit of speed. Some of the more southerly routes would fit the bill too. My local doorstep riding takes in rides around Holmesfield down towards Linacre Reservoirs which are definitely much less technical than the dark peak riding round Hope and Edale. And zero hike-a-bike.
The Eastern Moors Tour is perfect for a beginner, with spectacular countryside.
Free download here
I usually extend it with a loop around Burbage Moor, as follows:
Bridleway out from the Fox House Inn
Turn left across the top of Lady Cannings
Turn left for a mile of tarmac
Turn left to return down the new bridleway below Burbage Rocks
That'll give you 30km with no hike-a-bike.
Buy the VP guidebooks, plenty of blue and red routes:
https://www.v-publishing.co.uk/books/mountain-biking/white-peak-mountain-biking-1/
https://www.v-publishing.co.uk/books/mountain-biking/peak-district-mountain-biking/
Something around Bakewell/Chatsworth would suit I think. Also nicely placed for adding or subtracting bits as required if you know the local area (which, as I type this, I realise that you probably don't).
Agree with the Eastern edges route linked to.
Was also going to suggest the Stanage Loop as an addition (though the bit through Stanage is hard (but very short)
Eastern Moors route is a winner with nice views and a cafe van at Curbar Gap. Turboflard seems to ride the same sort of areas as me. Also think about considering the Linacre North circuit (23km), or the Holymoorside route (21km). Oh also the Bakewell Circuit (17km) which someone mentioned above. All are in the Vertebrate White Peak book.
I've got the perfect loop for you, from Bakewell. I put this on pdmtb recently. Along a flat off road track before climbing gently round a couple of valleys and hills. Lovely views from very little relative climbing.
I'd class it between novice and intermediate.. as it's mostly made up but there's still enough rough stuff to challenge the inexperienced where the experienced rider won't get too bored. There are also some challenging climbs but not too bad. We covered it in precisely 3hrs with a few stops to admire the view.
Park anywhere in Bakewell and either head down Coombs Rd or the Monsall trail.
When you get to Chatsworth you can either go behind the garden centre or attempt the horrible grass climb to the gate. We opted for the grass climb.
https://www.justgoride.co.uk/routes/49084
You might have to join the site to get the gpx, message me if you don't want to.
Ride round ladybower. Include the ridge on the West side above Fairholm
Loads of stuff further east beyond hayfield.
The stuff around Roman Lakes - Marple way - is pretty gentle, you can extend loops out over towards the Monk's Road above Glossop / Rowarth etc. I think there's a loop in the V-Publishing guide, wbich is worth buying if you're not familiar with the area.
Also mostly very beginner friendly is the Taxal Loop which starts from Whaley Bridge, potters over to the Errwood Reservoir then up to Derbyshire Bridge. Over the top to Buxton, there's one very bouldery bit on the descent but you an walk it. Then back via the bottom of Long Hill around Ladder Hill and back into Whaley. I can't remember if it's in any guidebooks, or which, but it's a classic loop we've been riding for ages. Good on a cross bike too (except for the bit on the Old Road, which is a tad gnarly).
Also very friendly is the stuff out of Hadfield / Royston Vasey on and about the Longdendale Trail. There are loads of tracks parallel to the trail, plus you can take the Northern Horse Route from Crowden, which skirts up above the reservoirs, crosses the bottom of Holme Moss, and takes you up above the tunnel entrances at the end of the first main section of the trail.
You can also do stuff that side using the Pennine Bridleway where it goes over the top towards Greenfields etc and make it into a loop, though it's hard to describe.