Doveridge to Waterhouses

The computer generated time for this ride is optimistic to say the least. Allow at least 2 hours, and that would be quite good going.

This undulating cross country route forms a new link in the National Cycle Network, joining the existing Derby/ Uttoxeter Route 549 to the Manifold Trail.




It runs northwards from Doveridge, a couple of miles East of Uttoxeter, to Waterhouses, on the Ashbourne to Leek road, crossing the Derbyshire/ Staffordshire border at Ellastone.

Coming from Derby on the existing leg of Route 549, we turn right at this roundabout.


And head initially towards Marston Montgomery, crossing over the A50 trunk road which carries most of the traffic between Derby and The Potteries.

Soon we are onto narrow country lanes for the rest of our journey.

Straight on at the red post box, as we bypass Marston Montgomery whose name is too long to put on the signpost in full.

                                             Follow signs to Roston. We bypass Rocester.

                                   To the left we see Rocester and the giant JCB excavator factory.

Straight on at this cross roads.

Pass the Roston Inn and head for Norbury and Ellaston.  Council hygiene rating 1 out of 5, so bring sandwiches.

Left(ish) here at Norbury.

Passing the old railway station, one of the few signs of the Rocester to Ashbourne railway closed by Dr. Beeching in the 1960's

                                 A worthwhile diversion up the lane to the right is to visit Norbury Church.

Here we cross the River Dove, which is the Derbyshire/Staffordshire County Boundary.

                                      A proliferation of signs as we enter Staffordshire.

                                                             Turn right at this junction.

                                                    Follow the main road to the right.

                         Off left here on narrow lane which leads to the long steep climb to Stanton.

                                                             Left here in Stanton.

                                                                     After the church.

                                                                On Marsh Lane.

                                              Here we cross the A52 Ashbourne/Stoke road.

                                                                 And turn left here.

Following the Sustrans signs all the way to Waterhouses where we meet the Ashbourne/Leek road.
Turn left into Waterhouses where the Manifold Trail runs to the right following the River Maniifold to Hulme End.

Verdict
A tough ride with lots of hills, but what can we expect? We are going into the Peak District from the Dove Valley. Even considering that, Waterhouses is 400 feet higher than Doveridge, and the undulations are such that riding the route North to South still makes for plenty of hill climbing. In particular the climb up to Stanton requires some considerable effort, but it's all worthwhile for the spectacular views.  Lots of narrow country lanes so watch out for tractors and some mud on the road in wet weather.
A great route if you like the challenge of hill climbing. Some people do.
Not much in the way of food and drink on the way so go prepared.