Family Bike Ride: Ashbourne To Tissington On The Stunning Tissington Trail

A family-friendly bike ride starting from Ashbourne and stopping at Herbert’s Tea Rooms in Tissington is a perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the Peak District. This relaxed ride is ideal for all ages and abilities, following the scenic and traffic-free Tissington Trail. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your adventure.

Starting Point: Ashbourne

Begin your journey in the picturesque market town of Ashbourne, known for its cobbled streets and charming Georgian architecture. There are convenient parking options around the town, and if you need to rent bikes, there are cycle hire shops nearby. Make sure everyone is geared up with helmets, water bottles, and a few snacks for the road.

Once you’re ready, head towards the Tissington Trail, a former railway line that has been converted into a smooth, well-maintained cycle path. The trail begins just north of Ashbourne and stretches all the way to Parsley Hay, making it ideal for families as it’s relatively flat and easy to navigate. It’s a safe route away from traffic, surrounded by rolling hills, meadows, and drystone walls.

Cycling the Tissington Trail

From Ashbourne, the ride to Herbert’s Tea Rooms in Tissington is approximately 4.5 miles each way, making it a manageable 9-mile round trip. The path meanders through the stunning countryside, with views of lush green fields, grazing sheep, and the occasional historic railway feature.

As you cycle, you’ll notice the gentle gradient, as the trail slowly ascends. The path is mostly gravel but smooth enough for most bikes, including those with children’s trailers or tag-alongs. For younger kids, this trail is perfect as there are no steep hills or busy roads, allowing them to ride confidently and safely.

About halfway through your ride, you’ll see signs for Tissington, a beautiful and historic estate village known for its thatched cottages, grand hall, and peaceful ambience.

Stop at Herbert’s Tea Rooms, Tissington

Located right in the heart of Tissington village, Herbert’s Tea Rooms is a must-visit spot for a mid-ride break. The tea rooms are set in a charming 17th-century building and offer a cosy atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating options. For families, the outdoor seating area is ideal on a sunny day, and there’s plenty of space for bikes.

At Herbert’s, you’ll find a range of homemade cakes, sandwiches, and hot drinks, perfect for refuelling after the first leg of your ride. Their scones with clotted cream and jam are particularly popular, and for kids, there are simple snacks and drinks to keep them energised for the return journey.

While in Tissington, take a little time to explore the village. The Tissington Hall and its gardens, along with the village’s historic wells, offer a glimpse into the area’s rich heritage on this family bike ride.

Return Journey to Ashbourne

After your break, hop back on your bikes for the return leg to Ashbourne. The ride back is mostly downhill, making it a fun and easy way to end the trip. Enjoy the breeze as you coast along the trail, retracing your path through the peaceful countryside.

In total, the ride takes about 2-3 hours, depending on how long you spend at the tea rooms and how fast your group cycles. It’s a perfect half-day trip for families wanting a gentle, scenic ride with a rewarding stop at Herbert’s Tea Rooms.

This bike ride is an ideal way to experience the natural beauty of Derbyshire, spend quality time together as a family, and enjoy some delicious refreshments in a quaint village setting.