Wonders of Wakefield (WoW) – 21‑Mile Circular Route Review

I’ve ridden almost every section of the Wonders of Wakefield loop in isolation over the years, but this was my first time stitching the whole thing together in one go. I rode it with my mate Chris (who contributes to Family Cycling), and it reminded me why the WoW is such a brilliant showcase of Wakefield’s green spaces: lots of traffic‑free riding, links between our favourite country parks, and plenty of places to stop. 

This review gives a friendly, practical overview for families and recreational riders: what to expect, how to navigate, the best stop‑offs, and how to adapt the loop for younger legs.

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The Tissington Trail Review for Families

The Tissington Trail

Route at a glance

Total distance 13 miles / ~21 km
Difficulty Easy (gentle railway gradient)
Top things to see
  • Historic Tissington village & Tissington Hall
  • Parsley Hay Visitor Centre & junction with High Peak Trail
  • Ashbourne tunnel and old station sites
  • Wide White Peak views along the former railway

If you’re looking for a family-friendly cycle trail that has incredible views, fresh air, and adventure, then the Tissington Trail in the Peak District is a proper gem. It ticks all the boxes for a day out with kids – safe, scenic, and you can stop anywhere along the path easily for snacks and breaks to take in the views.

In May, whilst staying at the Trail View campsite, (add link?) we cycled along the Tissington Trail. 

It is a really peaceful path through the heart of the Peak District that’s perfect for little legs, but equally fun and challenging for all ages.

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The Monsal Trail cycling for families

The Monsal Trail Cycling For Families

Route at a glance

Total distance~8.5 miles / ~13.7 km
DifficultyEasy (wide path, well-lit tunnels)
Top things to see
  • Headstone Viaduct & Monsal Dale
  • Four re-opened rail tunnels
  • Old stations (Hassop, Monsal Head, Millers Dale)
  • Riverside limestone scenery

The Monsal Trail is located in the heart of the Peak District National Park, Derbyshire, England. This scenic trail runs along the former Midland Railway line and offers a unique experience for families to enjoy the beauty of the English countryside.

We parked at the old Hessop train station (Hassop Station, Hassop Rd, Bakewell DE45 1NW), which has been converted into a fantastic cycling dream, along with a lovely cafe, play area and ice cream truck. 

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