The best walks and hikes around High Peak

Embark on the Kinder Scout Circular Walk, a moderate hiking route that takes you across varied terrain in the Peak District. You will cover 8.9 miles (14.4 km) and gain 1683 feet (513 metres) in elevation, typically completing the journey in about 4 hours and 23 minutes. As you hike, you will experience expansive moorland and rugged gritstone plateaus, with impressive rock formations like the Wool Packs adding to the dramatic scenery. On clear days, the views from the Kinder Low Trig Point stretch far across the landscape, offering a rewarding perspective of the Vale of Edale.

When planning your visit, be aware that conditions on the plateau can be challenging, often boggy with paths that are not always clear. Sturdy walking boots and waterproof clothing are essential, as the weather on Kinder Scout can change quickly and you will be very exposed. For navigation, it is wise to carry a map and compass or a reliable GPS device, as the route can be tricky to follow in places.

This circular route is a classic Peak District experience, known for its wild beauty and historical significance. Kinder Scout is the highest point in the Peak District and played a crucial role in the access to mountains movement. The diverse landscape, from ancient clough woodland to the vast open moorland, makes it a notable destination for those seeking a true taste of the national park's rugged charm.

Embark on the Mam Tor and the Great Ridge Circular, a moderate hiking route that showcases some of the Peak District's most iconic landscapes. As you traverse the Great Ridge, you will experience continuous panoramic views, with the sweeping vistas of Hope Valley and Edale Valley stretching out before you, extending towards Kinder Scout and the Derwent Moors. This 8.3-mile (13.3 km) journey involves an elevation gain of 1340 feet (408 metres) and typically takes around 3 hours and 57 minutes to complete, offering a rewarding experience for hikers.

When planning your visit, be aware that this trail is popular, especially during peak times. While the paths are generally well-marked, checking local conditions before you go is always a good idea. Parking is available in nearby villages such as Castleton, which also provide amenities like pubs and shops for a post-hike refreshment. Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to avoid crowds and ensure easier parking.

The route features varied terrain, including well-maintained sections along the ridge, rocky parts, and grassy areas. A unique feature you will encounter is the

Embark on a rewarding hike through the Peak District National Park with the Mam Tor, Lose Hill & Hope loop from Castleton. This moderate route covers 8.3 miles (13.3 km) with an elevation gain of 1336 feet (407 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 57 minutes to complete. You will experience varied terrain, from well-paved paths to steeper, rocky sections, especially on the descent from Back Tor, as you traverse the iconic Great Ridge connecting Mam Tor and Lose Hill.

Starting from the charming village of Castleton, this trail is very popular, particularly on weekends. An early start is recommended if you prefer a quieter experience. Always check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions on the ridge can be cold and windy even when Castleton is sheltered, so sturdy shoes and appropriate gear are essential for your comfort and safety.

The trail offers expansive views of the Hope and Edale Valleys, with Mam Tor, known as the "Shivering Mountain," providing panoramic vistas that can reach Manchester on clear days. Lose Hill offers equally impressive views, often with fewer crowds. You will also see natural landmarks like Winnats Pass and Peak Cavern, and may even spot paragliders near Mam Tor's summit on windy days, adding to the scenic experience.

Embark on a challenging hike through the dramatic landscapes of the Peak District with the Kinder Reservoir, Kinder Downfall & Kinder Low loop from Bowden Bridge. This moderate route covers 8.5 miles (13.7 km) and involves a significant 1431 feet (436 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 8 minutes to complete. You will encounter diverse terrain, from steep ascents and rough tracks to the tranquil waters of Kinder Reservoir and the striking gritstone formations that dot the expansive purple heather moors.

Prepare for a demanding hike that requires a good level of fitness, especially given the varied and often rugged terrain. Sections around William Clough may involve stream crossings, and the path along Kinder Reservoir can be wet underfoot. The Kinder Plateau, particularly between Kinder Low and Kinder Downfall, is known for being boggy and peaty, so you might find the experience more enjoyable in dry weather or when the ground is frozen. Starting from Bowden Bridge, this loop is best suited for experienced walkers.

This trail offers more than just scenic views; it is steeped in history and natural wonder. You will reach Kinder Downfall, the highest waterfall in the Peak District, which transforms from a powerful cascade after rain to a more subtle trickle. From Kinder Low, marked by a trig point, you can enjoy panoramic views across the moorland plateau of Kinder Scout, often extending to Yorkshire, Cheshire, and even Wales on clear days. Portions of the route also follow the famous Pennine Way and pass through areas associated with the pivotal 1932 Kinder Scout Mass Trespass.

Embark on a moderate hike around the Ladybower & Derwent Dam loop, a scenic journey through the Peak District National Park. This route spans 8.0 miles (13.0 km) with an elevation gain of 308 feet (94 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 23 minutes to complete. You will experience varied terrain, from well-surfaced paths around the reservoirs to natural, unpaved sections that can be rougher, especially after forestry work. Enjoy expansive views of the impressive Derwent Dam, the unique Y-shaped Ladybower Reservoir, and the Ashopton Viaduct, all set against a backdrop of moorland, forests, and rolling hills.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the area is very popular and accessible. While some shorter routes are pram-friendly, this specific moderate loop requires good fitness due to its length and varied paths. The trail is well-maintained, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers. You can find parking facilities near the reservoirs, which serve as convenient starting points for your adventure. Always check local conditions before you go, especially regarding weather and any potential forestry operations that might affect path surfaces.

This trail is particularly notable for its rich history and engineering marvels. The Derwent Dam gained fame as a practice site for the RAF's

Embark on a moderate 8.2-mile (13.1 km) hike around Mam Tor and Lose Hill from Castleton, a journey that typically takes you about 3 hours and 59 minutes to complete. This circular route features a varied landscape, including flagstoned paths, grassy ascents, and some rocky sections, with an elevation gain of 1459 feet (445 metres). You will experience consistently panoramic views as you walk along the Great Ridge, connecting the two summits and separating the Hope and Edale Valleys. Mam Tor, often called the "Shivering Mountain," stands as a prominent landmark along the way.

This popular loop starts and finishes in the charming village of Castleton, which offers various amenities like pubs, cafes, and shops. While many parts of the trail are accessible, certain sections require sure-footedness, especially the descent from Back Tor. Be prepared for potentially cold and windy conditions along the exposed ridge, even when the valleys below are sheltered. The trail is a favorite for sunrise viewing, but this can mean more crowds, particularly on weekends.

The Mam Tor & Lose Hill loop is renowned for encompassing one of the UK's most beloved ridge walks, the Great Ridge. Mam Tor itself holds historical significance, featuring remnants of a late Bronze Age and early Iron Age hill fort at its summit. As you hike, you will pass iconic spots like Hollins Cross, a popular intersection of paths on the ridge. Castleton is also famous for its locally mined Blue John stone, adding another layer of interest to your visit.

Embark on the Mam Tor, The Great Ridge & Castleton loop, a moderate 8.1-mile (13.0 km) hike in the Peak District National Park. This picturesque route, typically completed in about 3 hours and 58 minutes, features a total elevation gain of 1462 feet (446 metres) and offers diverse terrain. You will traverse well-maintained paths, including paved sections and stone steps, alongside natural unpaved and gravel stretches that can be muddy. From Mam Tor's summit, you are treated to expansive views over the Edale Valley, Hope Valley, and Kinder Scout, with the Great Ridge providing continuous panoramic vistas on both sides.

Castleton village serves as a charming starting and ending point for this popular hike. The trail attracts many visitors, especially on weekends and for sunrise views, so arriving early is often recommended to avoid crowds. In Castleton, you will find various amenities such as cafes and pubs, perfect for a stop before or after your adventure.

This trail is notable for its rich history and unique geological features. Mam Tor, also known as the "Shivering Mountain" due to its unstable shale and sandstone, holds remains of an ancient hill fort and Bronze Age burial barrows. The Great Ridge, a nearly 2-mile (3-kilometer) long connector between Mam Tor and Lose Hill, is a highlight. You can also explore the dramatic limestone gorge of Winnats Pass and visit attractions in Castleton like Peveril Castle or the Treak Cliff Cavern.

Embark on a moderate 9.9-mile (16.0 km) hike through the Peak District National Park, gaining 1602 feet (488 metres) of elevation over approximately 4 hours and 56 minutes. This loop from Edale offers a diverse experience, from the rocky ascent of Grindsbrook Clough, where you might need your hands in places, to the exposed moorland of the Kinder Scout plateau. You will encounter impressive gritstone formations and reach the Kinder Low trig point, which provides panoramic views over the Edale Valley and beyond on clear days.

To plan your visit, remember that this trail is considered moderate to challenging, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. The exposed nature of the Kinder plateau means weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for strong winds and varying visibility. Navigation can be tricky in poor conditions, making a map and compass essential. The route is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs due to its rugged terrain, including steep sections like Jacob's Ladder.

This loop is notable for several iconic features that define the Peak District landscape. You will experience Kinder Downfall, the highest waterfall in the area, known for its unique phenomenon of water being blown upwards in strong winds. The adventurous Grindsbrook Clough ascent and the historic Jacob's Ladder, part of the Pennine Way, add to the trail's character. Starting from the picturesque village of Edale, you can find amenities like pubs for refreshment before or after your hike.

Embark on the challenging Edale Skyline loop from Hope, a difficult hiking route that spans 20.4 miles (32.8 km) and climbs 2698 feet (822 metres). This full-day adventure, estimated to take 9 hours and 27 minutes, offers a true test of endurance with varied terrain. You will traverse rocky paths and grassy slopes, experiencing the expansive views from the iconic Great Ridge and reaching the trig point at Win Hill summit, which provides a memorable visual landmark.

To prepare for this demanding hike, ensure you have a good level of fitness and wear sturdy walking boots, as you will encounter diverse and potentially boggy sections. The trailhead in Hope is easily accessible; you can arrive by public transport via the Hope train station. If you prefer to drive, parking is available in Hope village, where you can also find cafes for refreshments before or after your journey.

This route is widely regarded as one of the ultimate hiking challenges in the Peak District, known for its extensive panoramic views across the Edale Valley and the surrounding landscapes. As you progress, you will witness breathtaking vistas from various peaks, making it a highly rewarding experience for those seeking a significant outdoor achievement in the region.