The Cat and Fiddle

United Kingdom, 17km

Deriving its name from a nearby inn, the Cat and Fiddle is one of the most popular motorcycle roads in United Kingdom, with fast straights and a mix of sharp, blind bends and wide-open corners, all running through the picture-perfect scenery of the western Peak District National Park.

Running between Macclesfield in Cheshire and Buxton in Derbyshire, this road is intense, fun and technically challenging and hence every rider should try it at least once. Dry stone walls lining the corners, livestock and farm vehicles mean full attention must be given – it is after all Britain’s most dangerous road. Even at the average speeds dictated by the cameras along the route, the hairpin bends make for an extremely challenging ride.

The road can either be picked up from the eastern end by following the A54 out of Buxton or it can be joined in Macclesfield and followed out to the east. Either direction gives access to many other great motorcycling roads from Snake Pass (A57), Winnats Pass, Headstone Viaduct (B6465), and Mawstone Lane.

Tourist draw
Matlock Bath, resting within a limestone gorge on the River Derwent, was one of the country’s first tourist destinations and has attracted visitors since the 17th century. It now draws motorcyclists, thanks to the great roads, and the town fills with motorcycles every Sunday.

High spirits
The Cat and Fiddle Inn, after which the road is named, is now closed as a bar but still exists as a whisky distillery – worth checking out for the famous name alone.

Click here to view this route in the Harley-Davidson Ride Planner and start planning your next adventure.

First published in 2024.

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