As we enter peak cycling season we teamed up with Adam Blythe, the former English professional road and track cyclist. Competing for the BMC racing team, NFTO, Tinkoff and Lotto-Soudal throughout his career, Adam is no stranger to the cycling routes across Cheshire where he now lives. We joined Adam, to pick out his favourite looks this season and get his 3 recommended cycling routes, covering three different distances across Cheshire.
#1 For an enjoyable ride, try this simple 30km route that starts at Alderley Edge. Head out towards Knutsford along Knutsford Road, this will be the busiest road along the route. Once in Knutsford head to Tatton Park, taking in the wildlife cycle across the park. At the exit of the park turn right and head down the country lanes back towards Wilmslow. This route is quiet and simple and if you stop off at The Service Course cafe in Wilmslow, I would recommend the Nduja toast and a flat white. #2 Looking for something longer? This ride is roughly 55-60k and will take you a couple of hours. Starting again at Alderly Edge, head straight up and out of the village and climb the hill called the Windmill. At the top of the climb, head down Birtles Lane and towards Gawsworth. At Gawsworth, stay on the country lanes between the A536 and the A523. After enjoying some flat roads, head towards Sutton Lane Ends and then onto Langley and Rainow. The road will get a little bumpy but continue towards Bollington after your last climb of Rainow. Make sure you stop at No74 Deli for a coffee and steak sarnie if you can stomach it. Once you’re refuelled, head back towards Prestbury and finally back towards Alderley Edge.
#3 Ready for a challenge? Leaving Alderly Edge, head directly towards Prestbury and then through Bollington. Head up Brickworks climb, a local favourite for professional cyclists. The climb is roughly 3.2k (2miles) and totals 171 metres (561 ft) so have a go! Get your breath back and head over the top towards Kettleshulme and Whaley Bridge. Carry on the main road towards Chapel-en-le-Firth and head up Sheffield Road climbing towards Castleton. Then cycling down the famous Winnats Pass, take in the views and enjoy a quick break! Once down in Castleton head towards Hope and pull into the Grasshopper Cafe, the cheese toastie is a winner every time. Now you’re energised and full of caffeine, head along the valley and make a right turn towards Bradwell. Follow the long winding climb, this is the last long climb of the day. Head towards Buxton along the small country lanes and climb out of Buxton towards Leek. Around 2 miles out of Buxton at the top of Axe Edge, make a right, go over a cattle grid and continue to climb. Once you reach the top, head down to the well-known pub The Cat and Fiddle, which is in fact the second-highest public house in the UK. Taking the pressure off your legs follow the road to the bottom, head home through Macclesfield and back towards Alderley Edge. This loop is roughly 80-100km but with challenging climbs and fun descents so definitely one to try on a nice day!
