Around the Tame and Chew Valleys, Greater Manchester by Richard Peace

Cycling UK's e-bike expert Richard Peace takes us on a wonderful combination of tracks and minor roads hanging high above steep-sided valleys and small mill towns full of charm.

From Greenfield train station you drop down and head alongside the River Tame before heading north up the Pennine Bridleway on a gradually ascending, easy track. Road and more track takes you above the valley before crossing it south of Diggle, passing near the remarkable Huddersfield Narrow Canal on the way (don’t miss Grandpa Greene’s sumptuous café offerings here just on the canal by the route).

Your return along the west side of the valley involves a steady but steep climb via pretty Dobcross over Lark Hill and a rocky descent to Delph. Through the village’s conservation area centre you pick up the railpath known as the Delph Donkey, then head back to Greenfield on Ladcastle Lane with incredible views over the valley.

There is then the option of a there-and-back ride along an old millworkers' lane (passing their cottages along the way), for a quick spin around Dove Stone Reservoir perched at the foot of the Pennines proper. 

Tips

If you're looking for food and drink, there's the Station Brew near the route start at Greenfield train station; Grandpa Greene's south of Diggle, and the Swan pub at Dobcross.