CYCLING
If it’s a cycling holiday that you're after then Rockside acts as an excellent base and gateway to the Peak District and it’s many cycle routes. There are lots of disused railway trails, known as the Peak District trails, which provide excellent cycling for either the novice or experienced rider. The trails range from the north of the Peak to its southern and eastern edges, so there’s plenty to try!

They came into being with the closure of the Cromford and High Peak Railway, the Ashbourne to Parsley Hay line and the Monsal Dale Line. This allowed the National Park Authority to convert them into scenic cycle and walking routes. They offer miles of traffic free, scenic countryside and most of it is level... no daunting hills!  

They’ve existed for some time now so nature has adapted wonderfully and parts of the tracks are now official linear nature reserves. 

Tissington Trail
The Tissington Trail starts at Ashbourne car park.  You can join it at a number of points en route: Thorpe, Tissington, Alsop, Hartington, Parsley Hay (where Tissington Trail joins the High Peak trail... there are car parks here).

It's mostly a level, smoothly surfaced trail with panoramic views. There is a slight uphill to Parsley Hay and 1/3 mile, illuminated tunnel emerging in Ashbourne.  As you would expect, there is some excellent scenery.  As you travel along the route you can enjoy refreshments at Ashbourne, Tissington, Parsley Hay and Hartington. The walking and cycling routes are clearly signposted and point to local places of interest.  It’s about 13 miles long.

Monsal Trail
The Monsal Trail starts at Bakewell Station, near Buxton on the River Wye.  Part of the trail overlooks Monsal Dale, one of the finest views in Derbyshire.  It's unsuitable for cycling at its western half and many of the tunnels along the trail are unfortunately closed... but most can be circumvented by paths.  This trail is 17.5 miles long.

High Peak Trail
The High Peak Trail starts at Parsley Hay (there is a car park here).  Alternatively you can join at Middleton Top car park which is near to Matlock.  It has several steep inclines, but is well surfaced and offers some fantastic views.  In summer the banks are rich in wild flowers.  But watch out, this one is 17 miles long!