Visit the Peak District, England's oldest national park, and explore a variety of scenic walking routes. Discover Castleton, Hope, and Edale — three of the most beautiful and popular villages nestled in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Tackle the Kinder Scout hike, the highest summit in the Peak District, or enjoy the Mam Tor walk, a family-friendly route that offers spectacular views without the challenge of a steep climb. Whether you're after a leisurely stroll or a more challenging adventure, the Peak District has the perfect walk for you!
The 10 most beautiful hikes in the Peak District
Best Circular Walking Routes in The Peak District
Ladybower Reservoir Circular Walk
Head to the Ladybower Reservoir in the Peak District to discover a superb long-distance walking route where you can explore the rolling green hills of the English countryside. This walk takes 5.4 miles to complete which is great for a short-distance trail as time-wise it only takes just over two hours to complete. As an added bonus, this picturesque walk offers some excellent vistas of the Peak District's rolling scenery, including the tranquil waters of the Ladybower Reservoir.
This lovely, gentle walk is on well-made paths and offers the most magnificent views for only a small amount of effort. The circular route ...
Curbar Edge Circular Walk
This walk follows a fantastic path through Froggatt Edge, Curbar Edge, and Baslow Edge, with extensive panoramas of the gorgeous Derwent Valley and Dale, laid out below, providing some of the greatest views in the Peak District. It then slowly descends on moorland trails before returning to the starting point via the charming villages of Curbar, Calver, Froggatt, and Grindleford, through rural lanes, field tracks, and quiet woodland paths. Allow 4-5 hours to accomplish this moderately paced walk including rest intervals to soak in the picturesque. Furthermore, the Curbar Edge hike is quite demanding since it travels across some rugged and steep land.
Dovedale Circular Walk
The Dovestone Circular Walk is a fantastic 6.3-mile route that offers a beautiful combination of scenic reservoirs, woodlands, and stunning hillside views. Taking just under 3 hours to complete, this walk is perfect for a half-day adventure in the Peak District. Starting from the Dovestone Reservoir, the path takes you around the water’s edge, offering peaceful views and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. As you continue, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding hills and valleys. The terrain is a mix of well-maintained paths and gentle inclines, making it suitable for most walkers.
A fantastic day out in the Peak District National Park, exploring the beautiful Dovedale valley and its surrounding area.
Best Easy Walks for Beginners in The Peak District
The Monsal Trail
The Monsal Trail offers an exciting 8.5-mile journey through the stunning Peak District. Perfect for walking, cycling, and more, this scenic trail takes you through fascinating tunnels, across beautiful viaducts, and provides breathtaking views of the River Wye. Along the way, you’ll discover historical sites like the Cressbrook and Litton mills. Don't miss a stop at Hassop Station, where you can enjoy a meal or rent a bike. Whether you’re a history buff or nature lover, this trail has something for everyone!
Reach the Summit of Mam Tor
A thrilling 9.1 mile trek featuring one of the best ridge walks in the UK, with spectacular views of the Edale and Hope Valleys, as well as the edge of Kinder Scout. Mam Tor translates to the 'mother hill' and is a 517-meter-high hill situated in Castleton, Derbyshire and is one of the Peak District's most famous hikes, deserving of a spot on your Peak District bucket list, providing some of the best views in the country, fantastic for landscape photography!
An exhilarating 6 1/2, mile walk with the option to extend to 8 miles.
Kinder Scout Walk
The Kinder Scout Walk in the Peak District is a must-do hike since it is the national park's highest peak. There are various routes to get to the summit, ranging from short but steep trails that have showcased the stunning packhorse bridge and lead to Kinder Scout. Here you will find untamed moorlands and the plateau's gritstone cliffs provide lots of opportunities for walks and hikes.
Julia comes home to her Peak District roots, exploring the first five miles of The Pennine Way, where she began walking as a young girl.
The Most Scenic Walks in the Peak District
Mam Tor and The Great Ridge
Ready to walk one of the Peak District’s most iconic ridges? Start your adventure at Mam Nick car park and head up the “Shivering Mountain” – Mam Tor – for one of the best views in the Peaks. The paved path makes the climb easy-going, and in just 1.5 to 2.5 hours, you’ll experience breathtaking panoramic views over Edale, Castleton, and the Hope Valley.
Fancy a circular route? Loop along the Great Ridge to Hollins Cross and Back Tor before returning. Don't forget your camera – this is prime photo territory, especially at sunrise or golden hour.
An exhilarating 6 1/2, mile walk with the option to extend to 8 miles.
Bamford Edge and Stanage Edge
This scenic walk begins in the village of Bamford and takes you along the dramatic Stanage Edge, offering panoramic views over the surrounding moorlands and valleys. The route is a popular spot for walkers and climbers alike, with rugged terrain and striking rock formations. The walk takes around 2 to 3 hours, covering a distance of approximately 7 km (4.5 miles), making it perfect for those seeking a more challenging but rewarding hike.
Peak District National Park - Hathersage - St Michael The Archangel - Great Tor (Bamford Moor) - Rivelin Tunnel Sighting Tower - Rivelin Tunnel ...
Cubar Edge
If you’re after a walk with stunning views and a touch of adventure, Curbar Edge is the perfect choice. Starting from Curbar Gap, this relatively easy route takes you along the edge, offering sweeping views over the Derwent Valley and the surrounding moorland. It’s a popular spot for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the light really makes the landscape come alive.
The walk is about 1.5 to 2 hours and covers around 4 km (2.5 miles), making it a great option for those looking to explore the Peak District in a short but scenic hike.
A great, moderate circular hike with some stunning scenery from Curbar Edge and Froggatt Edge.
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