The good thing about the Hope triple 8 route is there are lots of cut it short options if you start to feel you’ve had enough.
Last time we turned right at Hope Cross, went down the beast (favelicious!) crossed the road and pushed/rode up Hagg and on the way back did that in reverse for a change.
Once back at Hope Cross you can miss out the Edale/Castleton loop and just head back to Hope That’s a fine descent if you keep off the brakes.
The full route has several really top descents, and they all have their own unique character which makes it a great day. Oh and as far as fitness, the last time we were out there 4 of us had a total age of 207 and only the 43 y.o. youngster didn’t manage to get to Hollins Cross (last climb of the day) without walking.