5 Best Walks in the Peak District

Known as a walkers paradise, the Peak District is located in the East Midlands of England – and it’s one of the most diverse locations to visit in the UK when it comes to outdoor attractions.

Known as a walkers paradise, the Peak District is located in the East Midlands of England – and it’s one of the most diverse locations to visit in the UK when it comes to outdoor attractions.

The Peak District offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to explore incredible woodland areas, tremendous mountains, vast landscapes, untouched valleys, and remarkable caves – with many charming villages to enjoy the local cuisine. Their famous local dessert (Bakewell pudding) will go down a treat after a long walk around the area! 

Ready to find out the best places to go walking in the Peak District? Read on to find out more…

Curbar Edge and Froggatt Edge

Curbar Edge and Froggatt Edge

Key information

Distance: 6 miles.  

Time: 3 hours.  

Difficulty: moderate to hard.

To start, we have a walking route that’s not to be missed when visiting the Peak District. The Curbar Edge and Froggatt Edge, which is a 6 mile stretch in total, is the perfect challenge for seasoned walkers – but don’t be put off if you’re a beginner, simply take it at your own pace. 

 

The Curbar Edge and Froggatt Edge is a circular trail, known for leaving visitors speechless.  Walkers will be welcomed with spectacular panoramic views of the Peak District, and if you’re planning to go in the autumn season – you may be lucky enough to listen to deer rutting.

The trail does contain an uphill stretch, however, the rest of the walk will take place on relatively flat terrain. The entire experience should take you no longer than three hours to complete, depending on your walking pace. 

If you love walking trails that meander through scenic woodlands and clifftops, you’ll love exploring this trail. Simply grab your walking boots and head for the hills!

Ladybower Reservoir walk

Ladybower Reservoir walk

Key information

Distance: 5 miles.  

Time: 2 hours.  

Difficulty: easy.

Next up, we have the superb Ladybower Reservoir walk. The perfect lakeside route for walkers who love to be surrounded by all types of untouched natural scenery. 

The Ladybower Reservoir walk consists of a circular trail around the stunning reservoir lake, accompanied by mature woodland and views of the surrounding valleys that stretch for miles.

In terms of difficulty, the Ladybower Reservoir walking route is suitable for all experience levels, with accessible and well-kept walking trails throughout. The entire experience should take no more than two hours to complete, with a distance of approximately five miles long. 

If you’re looking for a relaxed walk that is enjoyable yet not overly strenuous, the Ladybower Reservoir walk is perfect, as you’ll be welcomed with gentle and flat terrain throughout. 

Additionally, there are multiple resting spots throughout the trail, such as benches, scenic lunch spots, and even the famous Ladybower Inn – a charming and welcoming bed and breakfast that offers dining facilities to walkers, and it’s visited by many who are passing through.

Three Shire Heads

Three Shire Heads

Key information

Distance: 3.8 miles.  

Time: 2.5 hours.  

Difficulty: easy to moderate.

Next, we have the scenic Three Shire Heads walking trail – an absolute essential to visit if you find yourself in the Peak District.

An interesting fact about this superb trail is that the name (Three Shires Head) derives from the fact that this location is where three separate counties have boundaries that meet. These include the boundaries of Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire.

The walk across the Three Shire Heads is a circular route, which is approximately 4 miles long. The route will take approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete (if you’re walking at a leisurely pace), and the terrain is mostly smooth throughout the walk, however, some parts will require uphill hiking. 

During the summer months, outdoor enthusiasts have been known to take walks through the Three Shire Heads to enjoy wild swimming in the natural pools that cascade by the miniature waterfalls. 

What you can expect whilst taking a stroll through the Three Shire Heads trail is the feeling of total seclusion and serenity, surrounded by sections of stunning river valleys, beautiful natural waterfalls, mature woodlands, with breathtaking panoramic views of the glorious British countryside throughout the 4-mile route.

Kinder Scout

Kinder Scout

Key information

Distance: 9 miles.  

Time: 5 hours.  

Difficulty: hard.

Kinder Scout, known for its challenging terrain and rewarding ascent, is located in Derbyshire. This is the highest point not only in the whole of the Peak District but in the whole of the East Midlands – taking walkers 636 metres above sea level.

There are a variety of different walking routes, however, the most common starting point is via Edale Park. From there, walkers should expect a 9-mile route, which will take approximately 5 hours to complete. 

It’s important to note that this walking route is rated by other walking enthusiasts as difficult, so it’s important to arrive with the correct outdoor equipment. The ascent is known for being pretty wet and muddy on a good day – so it’s essential that you have sturdy walking boots and waterproof outerwear.

There’s no question that the ascent to the top of Kinder Scout is physically demanding – walkers can expect deep gorges, steep and muddy terrain in places, whilst also passing by dramatic edges and sheer drops. Because of this, we would recommend this walk for seasoned hikers who are looking for their next adventure. 

The journey may be challenging, however, once you make it to the top – you’ll be blown away by the panoramic views of vast greenery, which will appear endless from where you will be standing.

Mam Tor circular walk

Mam Tor circular walk

Key information

Distance: 3 miles.  

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours.  

Difficulty: easy.

Last, but certainly not least, we have the superb Mam Tor circular walk. A very popular walking trail amongst families, this dog-friendly route has a lot to offer. 

 

The most common place to use as a starting point is from the National Trust’s Mam Nick car park, which is located just 400 metres away. Walkers will start their walk by strolling through the well-kept path into a beautiful woodland area, where they will then be guided to a stone path. The ascent to the top of Mam Tor will start there.

What walkers can expect to see from the Mam Tor viewpoint is sensational views of the surrounding landscapes, along with a panoramic view of the glorious British countryside. Additionally, Mam Tor is home to many animals, including wild sheep – so it is advised that walkers keep their distance so that they are not disturbed. 

When walkers are ready to start making their way back down, there is a dedicated pathway to start their descent. This is purposeful so that walkers can enjoy their stroll whilst also minimising the chance of overcrowding. This will then take walkers back through the beautiful woodland area, finishing just across the road from the Mam Nick car park.

The Mam Tor circular route is the perfect place for children to enjoy nature, and there are plenty of places to settle down for a picnic if desired. In addition, dogs are warmly welcomed to join in the fun, with many visitors bringing along their furry friends. 

Mam Tor is a well-known walking area, with plenty of different trails to choose from – so if you prefer to partake in longer walking routes, there are also 5 to 6-mile route options that explore a larger portion of the area. It’s important to note that although a shorter route, this circular trail option will still allow walkers to experience a large portion of what Mam Tor has to offer – whilst still granting walkers access to spectacular viewpoints.

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