The Peaky Finder

The Peaky Finder returns for 2026 with a fresh take on a classic course. The scenery is epic but at this time of year it can be bitterly cold and exposed. It’s remote too in places so dress appropriately. The Peak District is a great part of the world to ride a gravel bike. The Tissington Trail and High Peak Trail are simple, straightforward gravel trails that will allow you to enjoy the moment rather than pick your line. It’s a crowd favourite, no technical skills required, make sure you’re there!

Read my 2025 ride report here

Gravelton Events are not official or sanctioned. They are self-supported group rides. Same route, same day. It’s just you, your bike and your mates having fun.

All we ask is you share your ride with everyone else in the community.

How to Enter

Entry is FREE. Just turn up but I do recommend you subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest route and event info.

The Route

The main route rolls out north on the Tissington Trail. Riders leave the trail at Tissington village and head east across to Carsington Water early doors to avoid the crowds. It’s anti-clockwise around the shore line, then it’s a climb to pick up the High Peak Trail but not all of it! In a change from previous editions, riders will divert westbound and cross The Tissington Trail to Hartington to take a new route north to Hurdlow. From here its southbound on The Tissington Trail back to base on the longest gravel descent of the year!

You can download a GPS file from the Gravelton GPS Folder in any format you want or use the Komoot link below

The **new short course follows the main route north on The Tissington Trail but at Tissington Village heads west directly to Hartington, cutting out the Carsington Water and High Peak Trail loop. Just north of Parsley Hay riders join The Tissington Trail southbound, back to base, to enjoy the longest gravel descent of the season too!

Need to Know

1. Invite your mates. Tell everyone about the ride.
2. Park considerately on the day.
3. Always take your litter home.
4. Be self-sufficient. Make sure you have the route, your phone, spares, food, drink, money.
5. Shut any gates.
6. Ride within your capabilities and the rules of the road.
7. Be courteous to other trail users and share your space nicely. A bell is highly recommended.
8. Remember it’s a ride not a race.
9. Share your ride afterwards.

Refreshments

You can pickup pre and post-ride refreshments from Ashbourne town centre. En-route there are various cafe’s and tea rooms available around either course. Mainsail @ Carsington Water, Herberts Tea Room @ Tissington, Blueberry Kiosk @ Parsley Hay are a few.

Parking

Parking is at Ashbourne Leisure Centre. It’s Pay & Display and riders tend to park at the far end adjacent to The Tissington trail tunnel where the start is.

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