Buxton Grand Tour of the Peak District

The whole Peak District in one long day. From a high spa town the route circles clockwise through the Dark Peak moors and long valleys of the north, over several of the region's big climbs, then south through the limestone dales and walled plateau of the White Peak before closing the loop.

It is a serious day. Most of it is two-lane A and B road, but there is a stretch of town streets in the middle, and a long run of narrow, steep and tight moor road that is the stiff test of the ride. Expect cattle grids, sheep and fast-changing weather on the tops. Start early with a full tank, plan fuel and food stops, and choose a settled day from late spring to early autumn.