Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN DERBY
Planning a cycling-focused trip to Derby? Excellent choice. This East Midlands gem might not always top the tourist charts, but for cyclists, it’s a bit of a paradise. With its flat-to-gently-rolling terrain, historic charm, and access to car-free trails, Derby is the perfect base for a two-wheeled holiday. Whether you're into slow riverside rambles or longer countryside adventures, you'll find great routes, quiet lanes, and proper pub stops along the way. Let's dive into Derby's best bike rides — all distance measured in good old kilometres, of course!
Getting to know Derby’s bike scene
Derby’s got a proud cycling heritage — this is the home of the Derby Arena velodrome, after all — but beyond the indoor track, the city is wrapped in leafy trails, old railway routes, and canal paths that make riding here a treat. Whether you’re on a road bike, hybrid, or touring rig, there’s something for everyone within easy pedalling distance.
You don’t need a car to start riding. Many of Derby’s top cycling routes start right from the city centre, with excellent signage and a growing number of bike lanes. Local shops like Cycle Derby and Samways Cycles can help with rentals, gear, or even a quick tune-up before you set off.
Top areas to base yourself
City Centre: Great for access to the Derwent Valley paths and shops. Cafés galore.
Darley Abbey: Just north of the centre, this quiet village is a great starting point for riverside routes and has a craft brewery for post-ride pints.
Mickleover: Suburban, calm, and right next to the traffic-free Mickleover Greenway.
Allestree: Handy for heading north into the Peaks or east along the canal.
Borrowash: Perfect if you want quick access to the canal path toward Nottingham.
Derby’s cycling community is active, too. If you fancy a social ride, check out groups like Derby Mercury or Cycle Mickleover — both offer touring-friendly group outings for visitors and locals alike.
Best traffic-free trails and scenic rides
Derby has invested heavily in car-free cycling infrastructure, which is brilliant news if you're on holiday and just want a relaxed, scenic ride. From old railways turned into smooth paths, to river and canal routes with picnic-perfect views, there are dozens of routes to explore. And the best part? Most of them start just a few pedal strokes from the city centre.
Top traffic-free trails to ride
Derwent Valley Heritage Way (city section): Starting from Derby city centre, this riverside trail is ideal for casual riders. Ride north through Darley Park and beyond for shaded paths, heron sightings, and waterside calm.
Mickleover Greenway: A smooth, 10 km stretch along a former railway line, ideal for families or warming up for longer rides. Connects easily to Etwall and beyond.
Great Northern Greenway: Heading east from Breadsall, this scenic trail offers about 10 km of flat, peaceful riding — with historical railway stops and countryside charm.
Nutbrook Trail: This 10.5 km route links Long Eaton to Shipley Country Park. Expect forest, fields, and plenty of picnic spots.
Erewash Canal Path: Ride from Borrowash to Langley Mill (around 20 km), tracing the historic waterway. Pubs and nature reserves along the way make it great for leisurely touring.
These trails are mostly flat and tarmac or compact gravel, making them perfect for hybrids, commuters, and touring setups. Don’t forget snacks, especially if you’re planning to ride out and back — some sections are remote, but that’s part of the charm.
Sunset rides along the River Derwent are particularly magical, especially near Darley Abbey and Alvaston Park. Bring lights just in case — UK twilight can sneak up on you.
Long-distance loops and countryside touring
If you're looking to stretch your legs and see what Derbyshire really has to offer, you're in for a treat. Just a few kilometres out of town, the scenery shifts into rolling farmland, hidden villages, and gentle climbs with panoramic views. These routes are perfect for day tours, especially if you enjoy mixing historic sites, great cafés, and peaceful lanes.
Top touring loops and routes
Derby to Carsington Water (via Ashbourne): A scenic 60–65 km ride through fields and dales. Start via the Mickleover Greenway, pass through Ashbourne, and end at the reservoir. Plenty of cafés and spots for a dip.
Derby–Belper–Matlock loop: Around 70 km of riverside roads, market towns, and light climbs. Combine with the Derwent Valley trail for a mix of tarmac and gravel.
National Cycle Route 6 (local segment): Head south from Derby to Melbourne and Staunton Harold Reservoir. Roughly 45 km, and perfect for a relaxed morning ride with cake at the end.
Elvaston Castle to Trent Lock via canal: About 35 km of smooth, waterside trail and quiet backroads — and great for birdwatchers and pub fans alike.
Derby to Nottingham (via Route 66): A full-day out-and-back at 45 km each way. Ride canal paths and quiet lanes, with plenty of coffee stops along the way.
For longer rides, always pack a repair kit, extra water, and a waterproof layer — Derbyshire weather can flip from sunshine to sideways rain in minutes. Most towns have bike-friendly pubs or cafés where you can rest, recharge, and maybe meet a few friendly locals to swap route tips.
Touring in Derby is a relaxed, scenic affair. It’s not about racing — it’s about rolling past stone walls, stopping for tea, and discovering places you’d never see from a car. It’s proper holiday cycling, British-style.
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