First Peak District Cycling Festival next weekend

There’s only a week to go till the inaugural Peak District Cycling Festival, and the agenda has been published with over 60 rides catering to everyone from the beginner rider through to seasoned road and off-road cyclists.

Events include Breeze rides for women and female-friendly bike maintenance courses, mountain bike tours for beginners, introductions to bike orienteering and sportives.

Rides range from 6k to 160k, and for the less energetic there are film events and food and drink to enjoy.

Many of the events showcase the region’s 65 mikes of traffic free trails in stunning landscapes.

Annie Last, patron of the Peak District Cycling Festival, told Bakewell Today: “The first-ever Peak District Cycling Festival offers a fabulous opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy fun, fresh air and fitness surrounded by some of the UK’s most breathtaking landscapes.

“I was lucky enough to grow up here. Now, as a professional cyclist, I love to return between international events to train on a variety of roads, tracks and challenging trails in Britain’s first National Park, amid wonderful, yet accessible countryside.

“I’d encourage everyone from beginners to experts to get on their bike and book ahead to explore some of the best cycling country they’ll ever experience. It’s good for both the head and the heart – as well as the very best way to get around.”

Jim Dixon, chief executive of the Peak District National Park Authority said: “The Peak District is fantastic for cycling and offers such a variety of routes, there really is something for everyone.

“I hope the Festival will encourage more people to cycle in their everyday lives – for travel to work or the shops, as well as enjoying two wheels to experience the national park countryside.”

For a full list of events and more information about the Festival, click here.