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Also known as the Manifold Trail or Manifold Track, the former Leek and Manifold Valley Light Railway provides a uniquely twisting, turning and well-surfaced cycle route nestled below Thor’s Cave and epic hills.
Route details
- Distance
15.8 miles / 25.4 km - Elevation Gain
98 m / 321 ft - Time allow 2 hours
- Difficulty
Gentle - Terrain 76% Off-Road Path Traffic-free trails, towpaths & cycleways 24% Road Quieter lanes, sometimes brief busier roads 0% Unpaved Bumpier tracks & bridleways
- Suited to
City or Folding Bike 
Gravel Bike 
Hybrid Bike 
Mountain Bike 
Non-Standard Cycle 
Road Bike - Notes Level throughout with a mostly tarmac surface and good access. Note one small section including a tunnel merges with a quiet minor road.
- Suggested Start Hulme End SK17 0EZ SK 1028 5929
- Places Beeston Tor, Butterton, Ecton, Grindon, Hulme End, Staffordshire, Thor's Cave, Waterhouses, Wetton
- Attributes Bridges, Car parking, Cycle hire, Family-friendly, Industrial heritage, National Cycle Network, Out and back, Pubs and cafés, Railways, Reasonably flat, Rivers, Suitable for older kids, Suitable for young kids, Tunnels, Views of hills and peaks
A complete guide to the Manifold Way with a stage-by-stage tour, original photos and helpful tips is coming soon.
Route map
The route stats featured here are automatically generated by Komoot. For the most accurate guide, please refer to the route details above, based on actual rides recorded by Strava.
Original photography, words and design by Anthony Sheridan unless indicated otherwise. Found this guide helpful? Buy me a coffee to help keep the wheels turning!
The all-important disclaimer: While great care and attention has been put into gathering these routes, ensuring details are accurate and determining their suitability, all information should be used as a guide only and is not a replacement for using your own judgement or research when setting out on new adventures. Peaks & Puddles/the author cannot be held responsible for any issues that may arise from the riders own decision to ride a section of indicated route.
Always ensure your equipment is safe and legal for use and that you are well prepared, carrying everything necessary including access to a good map. Follow the Highway Code and the Countryside Code at all times. Respect the landscape, the wildlife and the people you encounter. And after all that, have fun!