Sunday Spin to Buxton Aug ‘25
Going up Long Hill Climb toward Buxton
The alarm went off early, but by 7am three out of the five of us had actually made it to Wilmslow for a 40-mile hilly ride out to Buxton. Not a bad turnout — 60% attendance is practically pro-level for our group.
By 7:15 sharp, we rolled out by Tariq Watch. Spirits were high… well, until about 15 minutes in when Adil sighed: “I’m already tired and we haven’t even hit Brickworks yet.” That’s when I knew it was going to be a relaxed day out — the kind of ride where the café stop is the main event.
The top of Brickworks climb
We’d agreed to stick together the whole way, regrouping at the tops of climbs and long descents. First up was the legendary Brickworks climb — always a test of legs and lungs — and then later, the long steady grind of Long Hill into Buxton. It’s one of those climbs that feels endless, but the views over the Peak District more than made up for it. Honestly, we found some stunning new roads along the way, the kind that remind you why cycling is worth dragging yourself out of bed at stupid-o’clock.
By the time we rolled into Buxton, the sun was out, the air was warm with just the right amount of breeze, and more importantly — the café served cake and coffee with hearts in the latte art. Sitting outside, soaking up the sunshine with good mates, that’s what it’s all about.
Coffee with 3 hearts from Coffee #1
And the best part of starting early? We were back before lunch. That meant time for “real life” stuff: spending time with the wives (though some of us might secretly prefer more climbing than small talk 🤫), hanging out with the kids, and maybe even smashing out the weekly shop. Cycling: the sport that makes you feel heroic before most people have even had breakfast.
All in all, it was the perfect mix of climbs, laughs, coffee, and questionable banter — a proper reminder that the joy of cycling isn’t just about the miles, it’s about who you ride them with.
Amazing view over Cheshire, on top of Brickworks climb
Ride Stats
Distance: 42.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 4,147 ft
Moving Time: 3:33:15
Elapsed Time: 4:31:00 (includes quality faffing + cake stop)
Average Speed: 11.9 mph
Climbs Conquered:
🧱 Brickworks
🏔️ Long Hill
Café Stop: Coffee #1
Cake: 6/10
Coffee: 6/10
Service: 10/10 (they didn’t mind sweaty cyclists ordering double portions)
Riders: 3/5 showed up (a solid 60% attendance rate)
Banter Rating: Strong.
Legs Rating: Weak.
Overall Vibes: Peak District magic ✨