When Joe Connell gives you a ring and says he’s swinging by the Peak District on his way to the first round of the British Downhill Series, you don’t say no — you grab your camera, your bike, and try to play it cool. What followed was a six-hour epic around some of the Peak’s finest trails, filled with golden light, big sends, and questionable snack choices.

The highlight? Not Joe’s effortless speed or the sheer volume of bangers we managed to capture. Nope — it was my AXS battery giving up the ghost before we even hit the first climb. That’s right — six hours, no gears, just vibes. Pure Peak District character-building, served with a side of photo gold.

Who is Joe Connell

You know the name. The Scottish shredder with a penchant for going fast and looking fast while doing it. From lapping World Cup tracks to sending it between the tapes at enduro events, Joe’s been quietly (and not-so-quietly) making his mark on the MTB world for years.

Once a regular face on the downhill circuit, Joe’s evolved into a full-bore enduro weapon, now throwing his leg over a rig from Privateer Bikes, with wheels spun courtesy of HUNT Bike Wheels. He’s been heavily involved in the real-world testing and thrashing of Privateer’s latest Gen 2 platform — which, let’s be honest, is about as ‘from the riders, for the riders’ as it gets.

Off the race tape, Joe’s the kind of rider who actually makes you want to go ride – loads of talent and a knack for making rugged Scottish hillside look like a playground.

Where are we riding?

Win Hill – or as the locals might call it, “Wind Hill” (with good reason) – is one of the Peak District’s crown jewels when it comes to mountain biking. Tucked just above the Ladybower Reservoir, this rugged, windswept lump of land has become a bit of a pilgrimage site for riders who like their climbs brutal and their descents full of grin-inducing gnar.

The ascent? Well, let’s not sugar-coat it – it’s a leg burner. You’ll likely find yourself zigzagging up some brutally steep fireroads or winching your way up via the Roman Road if you’re fancying something a touch more ‘historic’. But trust us, the climb is more than worth it.

Once at the top, you’re treated to a panoramic slap in the face – think wide-open views of Ladybower, the Edale Valley, and beyond. But you didn’t come here for the scenery, did you? No, you came to point your front wheel down some of the Peak’s rowdiest natural descents.

There’s a smorgasbord of options to choose from, with classic Peak District character: techy switchbacks, natural rock gardens, a healthy serving of roots, and just enough gradient to keep you on your toes.

It’s all unofficial, of course – this isn’t your bike park groomed stuff – so trail etiquette is key. Be friendly, say hi to walkers, and maybe give that sheep the right of way.