Dambusters Leisure Cycle - Ladybower & Upper Derwent Valley
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A leisurely cycle around the Ladybower, Howden and Derwent Reservoirs.
Starting from near Bamford, we follow the former rail route used for the construction of the Ladybower Dam. From the dam we will keep to the shoreline on the southside for several miles before crossing the head of the reservoir to join a short section along the main road which is unavoidable if doing the full loop of the reservoirs.
After a couple of miles on the main road, we join the road to Fairholmes at the base of the Derwent Dam, where we can stop for refreshments and allow anyone wishing to join us for a shorter route. See event Dambusters Leisure Cycle - Upper Derwent Valley (Short Loop) | OutdoorLads
After refreshments we will cross the valley under the Derwent Dam and follow the recently improved off- road section along the shores of the Derwent and Howden reservoirs to cross the head of Howden Reservoir at the Slippery Stones Bridge before reaching the paved road back to Fairholmes.
Anyone on the shorter ride will leave us here, and we will continue along the off road trail to the east of Ladybower, before crossing the Dam and a nice downhill to the finish.
For this ride, any bike is suitable, although racing bikes with skinny tyres will find the going a little uncomfortable for a couple of miles on the first section along the Ladybower Reservoir Path. No need to worry too much about your fitness, we will ride at the pace of the slowest and no one we be left behind.
Whilst the ascent may appear significant, there are no long or steep ascents, its just the shoreline paths are undulating.
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What to bring
Apart from your bike remember the following:.
- Spare inner tube and tyre levers. Also any special tools that your bike needs.
- Food - bring lunch and small snacks such as chocolate bars and energy foods.
- Plenty of water (minimum 2lts)
- Eye protection - impact from a bee, grit or even a fly at speed is extremely unpleasant, sunglasses may do if not made of glass and not too shaded.
- Clothing: choose suitable clothes and footwear for the weather forecast and time of year. You will be exercising so lightweight layered clothing is best. Shorts are best even in rain, as they allow free movement of your legs. Jeans are useless if it rains but tracksuit bottoms need to be not too baggy or they may snag in the chain and cause an accident. You'll need trainers or similar with grippy soles for standard pedals.
- Cyclist's Helmet - Outdoorlads policy asks you to wear a helmet on events, however a full face helmet and pads are recommended..
- Bag you will need a small day-sack to carry essential clothing, water and an emergency snack.
Food & drink
Water
Please make sure you bring enough water/drinks for the ride.
Food
Please bring enough snacks/food for the ride.
There will be an opportunity to purchase refreshments at the Fairholme cafe during the ride