Cat n Fiddle Peak District

Route

This figure-of-eight loop is a proper “best of” Peak District ride: big scenery, flowing A-roads, and a few tighter minor lanes that keep you on your toes. The headline stretch is the A537 Cat & Fiddle (with the pub stop that’s become a bit of a biker pilgrimage), then you swing out through Edale / Mam Tor / Castleton (watch for the easy-to-miss turn towards Winnats Pass) before heading up past Ladybower and back via Snake Pass and Glossop. It can get busy in places and there are lower limits on some sections, but when it’s flowing it’s a stunning ride.

Quick Stats

  • Start/finish area: Macclesfield

  • Distance: 68.5 miles

  • Allow: 2 hours (plus stops)

  • Start point (fuel): Tesco, Hibel Road, Macclesfield SK10 2AB

Highlights

  • A537 Cat & Fiddle (iconic biker road + pub stop)

  • Edale & Mam Tor scenery

  • Castleton + Winnats Pass section

  • Ladybower Reservoir (good quick stop)

  • Snake Pass / Glossop return leg

Rider notes

  • Can be busy and some sections have lower limits (best early doors).

  • Expect a mix of A-roads + narrower minor roads (especially around Edale/Castleton).

  • Keep an eye out for the Castleton/Winnats Pass turn (easy to miss if you’re not watching for it).