Hebden Bridge & northern Peak District loop from Rochdale

If someone asked for your the most archetypal tour of the North, this Round Rochdale loop would be ranked highly.

You'll set off from Rochdale, which lies at the foot of the Pennines, and head north from there, paralleling the canal for a while before reaching the picture-perfect Hebden Bridge, which easily deserves a postcard home. There's a rapid A-road that then skirts down south and you'll end up crossing the motorway. From there, you're in reservoir territory, with beautiful colours (especially in autumn), and a brief dalliance with the top end of the Peak District.

Next up is a spectacular hill followed by the farm shop just north of Denshaw - The Pantry is part of the historic Rams Head pub and increasingly popular with cyclists.

Just 15 minutes on the train from Manchester, taking the train to the busy town of Rochdale is a sensible way to bypass traffic, meaning you can ride further and see more without any concern. After the cafe stop at the Pantry, you could always ride directly back to Manchester via Mossley, with 30 kilometers (18 miles) that are gently sloped in your favour (wind dependant, of course).

Check train times on www.nationalrail.co.uk