An exploration of Greater Manchester cycling facilities.All starts can be reached by train
 , and several by
 metrolink. Note that only folding bikes can be taken on the tram.
The rides are suitable for all sorts of bikes, including skinny-tyred road bikes, and folding bikes, although a gravel bike would be ideal. You can even bring an electric-assist bike provided you check that you have enough charge for the intending distance!
There is no entry fee for these rides, just bring some cash or cards as we'll have a cafe stop or two along the way. All we ask is that you have 3rd party insurance, such as that provided to members of Cycling UK or National Clarion.
Click on the
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what3words
link for our meeting point.
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Saturday
20/06/2026 ,
Start time:
10:30
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Marple
37km (23 miles)
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Marple, Bugsworth, Sett Valley
Our social ride for June takes us from Marple along the Peak Forest Canal to Whaley Bridge and onto the Peak Forest Tramway at Bugsworth basin. We’ll also get to use the Sett Valley Trail, the former rail link to Hayfield. We’ll also visit the Roman Lakes, so called because they are not Roman and are not lakes.
It’s a shorter alternative to our main event on Saturday, the Summer Solstice 200 (https://peakaudax.co.uk/summer-solstice/).
Start from Marple https://what3words.com/organic.sandbags.talking outside Costa and Greggs ready for cycling at 10:30. The meeting point is easily reached from either of the local stations (Marple or Marple Rose Hill). If arriving by car there is Pay-and-Display parking next to the Fire Station https://what3words.com/hedgehog.caressed.galloping.
We will use an extensive selection of canal towpath and former rail pathways, but it is all rideable on a road bike, gravel bike, foldable bike, electric bike, whatever you have. There are some steep climbs, but they are very short so you are allowed to walk these.
There should be at least one stop at Emma’s café in Thornsett (24km/15 miles). The ride will finish at the Marple Social and Forces Club where drinks will be available.
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