The Riverside Way to Elvaston Castle and return - 8 miles Suitable for children 7 years + and for beginners.

From the Riverside Gardens, head downstream with the River Derwent on your left. Go under the inner ring road into Bass's Rec. Follow the river, go past the Telegraph Footbridge on your left and gain Station Approach via the Fleam Bridge. Turn left, head down the slope to go under the railway and up the other side to the chicane barriers and so into Pride Park.

Follow the river, going under the Wyvern Bridge after about 1 mile, and under the railway after a further ½ mile to arrive at Alvaston Park. Those heading for Swarkestone should take the path to the right. Keep to the left through the park, passing the BMX track, exit the park and go down under Raynesway. After ¾ mile, pass a weir/bridge and continue for a further ¾ mile (mind the cattle grating across the path) to a second weir. Take a very sharp right turn. Follow the winding path to Elvaston Lane, turn left, proceed past the riding school and go left at the road junction. This road leads to the Castle where there is a Visitor Centre and tearoom.

Riverside Way and Derby Canal Path to Swarkestone and return - 12 miles This ride is also suitable for young children, but needs a bit more stamina!

As the route above to Alvaston Park - shortly after going under the railway, take the right fork and pass the lake on your left; pass Wilmorton College on your right and take the next right; follow a bend to the left to gain the line of the old canal bed and go under London Road. After ¾ mile you have to cross a dual carriageway at Harvey Road in two stages using a central refuge - where there is no push button, your bicycle will activate the lights if you keep to the cycle lane. Proceed along Penalton Close for about 200 yards and cross Brackens Lane with great care. After about ¼ mile, cross Boulton Lane using the push button controlled lights.

After tennis courts on the right, the path swings round to the right and passes under Chellaston Road by New Bridge Inn. A left bend takes you to Sinfin Moor Lane where there are gates and sign posts. Cyclists using route C join at this point. The way is now straightforward and, having passed under the Derby Southern Bypass A564, Swarkestone will be reached after about 1 mile. There is a tearoom at Lock House and the Crewe & Harpur pub is by Swarkestone Bridge on the River Trent.