D
erbyshire is littered
with short, punchy
little climbs, many of
which are well-known
across the British race
scene. The county has hosted the UK’s
National Hill-Climb Championships
on numerous occasions as climbs like
Winnats Pass, Bank Road and the
R iber have become synonymous
with the late-season, lung-busting
specialist event.
This route was designed as a tour
of these places, as a homage to the
hill-climb — a very British event which
allows you to pit yourself against some
of the best riders the UK has ever
produced. Taking in these climbs as
part of a big ride means you’ll have
to pace yourself, but it ’s still worth
checking your times from bottom to
top to see just how fast the best riders
can go.
Reasons to ride
1
Climbing perfection
The second ascent of the day is
up Winnats Pass, which could be
classed as the perfect cycling climb. The
1.6-kilometre stretch of road climbs
198 metres and in places touches on
25 per cent gradients. But it ’s the
setting that really stands out —
cutting through the ground as you
climb, you’re surrounded by a stunning
natural amphitheatre.2
Ride through history
Hill-climbs have been organised
on these roads since the 1940s,
and some of the best British riders have
put themselves on the line on their
slopes over the years. You might not get
to enjoy the crowds that flocked to the
hills to watch the action, but close your
eyes and imagine, just for a second.ROUTE THREE
HILL-CLIMB COUNTRY
10INSPIRE YOUR RIDING