Riding the Ridges

Grade: Mountain bike
Distance: 28km /17 miles
Time: 4 – 5 hours

Explore forgotten tracks in the hills above Macclesfield on this strenuous but rewarding 28km bike ride from Tegg’s Nose Country Park, with optional off-road sections.

Quiet lanes lead you along the side of Kerridge Hill, passing many gritstone quarries. Soon you reach Bollington, snug in the valley below White Nancy.

A steep climb out of town is rewarded with a level ride and pleasant views towards Alderley Edge. The off-road section across the rough and bouldery moor is challenging. Follow ancient tracks though upland pastures. Here, stone dominates the landscape. Old quarries and beautiful stone barns capture the imagination.

Stop and admire expansive moorland views from the top of Pike Low. The road nestles between stone walls, offering shelter from the harsh weather often experienced on the windswept moors.

The next off road stretch, called the Corkscrew, is the most technically challenging of the whole route. A steep zig-zag track leads down to Todd Brook. After a hard climb to Jenkin Chapel the route heads south to Lamaload Reservoir.

Relax and enjoy the view before one last climb up to Buxton New Road and back to Tegg’s Nose Country Park.

Full Address: Macclesfield , Cheshire , SK11 7EL

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