Baa Banana Black Sheep

When?
11th June 2005

Where?
Castleton, Peak District.

Who?
Gatecrasher Steve, Mr Motivator, DIY Dave.

Which way?
Castleton > Blue John Cavern > Rushup Edge > Chapel Gate Track > Edale > Hollins Cross > Hope Cross > Rowlee Farm > Ladybower Reservoir > Hope Castleton.

Is it published?
Probably. It's some of the best all-year riding in the Peak District.

Tracklog file? (What’s this?)
Yes. Download from here.

Highlights
Chapel Gate descent - a Peak District classic.
Rocky, rutty climb to Hollins Cross.
Rocky descent from Blackley Clough to A57.

Memories
As you can see from the photos, we met the tamest sheep in the Peak District when we reached Hollins Cross. It scavenged for food but all we had to share was some banana peel which she gladly ate (see photo below).

Route details
Distance: 23.2 miles
Duration: 4 -5 hours
Ascent: 4004 feet
% off-road: About 60%
Technical difficulty: 4/5
Fitness difficulty: 4/5

Directions
See the Tracklog file (above).

What else?
Castleton has plenty of pubs and cafes for post-ride re-fuelling.