7 of the Best Hikes in the Peak District
The Peak District is a hiking enthusiast's paradise, with breathtaking vistas, craggy peaks, and rolling green hills that seem to go on forever.
With the Peak District being just over an hour away from me, I’ve spent many a weekend exploring the peaks and plateaus of this scenic national park.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a newbie just starting out, the Peak District has something for everyone!
Here are seven tried and tested hikes in the Peak District…
1.Mam Tor Circular Walk
Total Distance: 4.8 km
Duration: 2 hours
Starting Location: Mam Nick Car Park (S33 8WA)
Parking: Mam Nick Car Park (£3.50 for 7 hours)
Route Description: Mam Tor Walking Routes
First up on my list of top hikes in The Peak District is Mam Tor, a dominant hill located in the heart of the National Park.
The Mam Tor circular walk is perfect for those looking for a challenging yet rewarding experience, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
You’ll pass through lush green valleys and climb steep inclines, making your way to the summit of Mam Tor where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the entire region.
As you walk along The Great Ridge, you’ll be treated to one of the best views in The Peak District.
A hike that should be on every adventurer’s bucket list!
2. Shining Tor from Errwood Reservoir
Total Distance: 6.5km
Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours
Elevation: 300m
Starting Location: Errwood Hall Car Park (SK17 6GJ)
Parking: Errwood Hall Car Park - Free Parking (Closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays). If closed, park in The Street Car Park or along the reservoir.
Route Description: Shining Tor from Errwood Reservoir
Next on my list is Shining Tor, a popular hike that's known for its spectacular views of the Cheshire Plain.
Shining Tor is the highest point in Cheshire and a fantastic day out for outdoor enthusiasts!
The hike from Errwood Reservoir is perfect for those looking for a little bit of everything, with steep inclines, rocky outcrops, and gentle meadows all along the route.
The summit is particularly impressive, offering views that stretch for miles and miles.
3. The Roaches and Lud’s Church
Total Distance: 11.5km
Duration: 3-4 hours
Elevation: 375m
Starting Location: Roach Road (ST13 8TY). At the saddle between Hen Cloud and The Roaches.
Parking: There are designated parking spots along Roach Road (by the Roaches Tea Rooms - ST13 8TY).
Route Description: The Roaches and Lud’s Church
The Roaches is another popular hike in the Peak District, ideal for those who love a bit of a challenge.
The Roaches are a rocky ridge towering over the Tittesworth Reservoir, with steep inclines and rocky outcrops to scramble up.
The views from the trig point are truly breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.
Once you have reached the trig point, head down to Roach End and follow signs posts for Lud’s Church.
After walking through the woods you’ll arrive at Lud’s Church - an atmospheric, moss-covered chasm, before looping back to Roach End and The Roaches.
4. Bleaklow and Higher Shelf Stones Circular Walk
Total Distance: 17.5km
Duration: 5-6 hours
Elevation: 767 m
Starting Location: Hope Street, Old Glossop
Parking: Manor Park Car Park, Old Glossop (SK13 7RP)
Route Description: Bleaklow and Higher Shelf Stones Circular Walk
For those looking for a longer and more challenging hike in the Peak District, Bleaklow and Higher Shelf Stones is a great choice.
This hike takes you through some of the most remote and rugged terrain in the Peak District, with steep climbs and breathtaking views along the way.
Hike along The Pennine Way to Bleaklow - the second highest point of The Peak District.
The highlight of the hike is undoubtedly the summit of Higher Shelf Stones, which offers views that are simply out of this world.
As you hike towards Higher Shelf Stones you’ll come across the B29 ‘over-exposed’ crash site.
The B29 crash site in the Peak District is a somber reminder of the tragic events that occurred on November 3, 1948.
The United States Air Force Boeing B29 Superfortress, known as the Over Exposed, crashed into the moors near Bleaklow, killing all 13 crew members on board. The wreckage remained hidden for many years until it was rediscovered in 1969 by a group of hikers.
Today, visitors can see the scattered remains of the aircraft and a memorial plaque dedicated to the crew.
5. Kinder Scout from Edale
Total Distance: 12.7 km
Duration: 6 hours
Elevation: 634 m
Starting Location: Edale Car Park (S33 7ZQ) £6 for 10 hours
Parking: Edale Car Park (S33 7ZQ)
Route Description: Kinder Scout from Edale
Kinder Scout is another must-do hike in the Peak District, with a rich history and stunning scenery that's sure to impress.
This circular route will take you on a journey through the heart of the Dark Peaks.
Starting with a climb up Grindsbrook Clough, you'll pass by Pym Chair and Noe Stool while taking in breathtaking views from the Kinder Plateau.
The summit of Kinder Scout is the highest point in the Peak District, offering views that are truly awe-inspiring.
Once you reach the Pennine Way, get ready for an exhilarating descent all the way back down into Edale via Jacob’s Ladder.
And don't forget to reward yourself for your hard work by stopping by The Old Nags Head a hearty meal and well deserved pint!
6. Laddow Rocks and Black Hill
Total Distance: 14 km
Duration: 4-5 hours
Elevation: 589 m
Starting Location: Crowden Car Park, Woodhead Road, Glossop, SK13 1HZ
Parking: Crowden Car Park, Woodhead Road, Glossop, SK13 1HZ
Route Description: Laddow Rocks and Black Hill Circular Walk from Crowden
If you're looking for a quieter route to explore the stunning Peak District, I highly recommend the Laddow Rocks and Black Hill walk from Crowden.
I started off 2021 by completing this hike on New Years Day and can attest to its beauty and tranquility.
One of the benefits of starting from Crowden is that it's away from busy villages and towns, which means fewer crowds.
The walk itself is one of my favourite hikes in the Peak District, starting with a challenging hike up to Laddow Rocks - the start of day 2 of the Pennine Way.
As you ascend to Laddow Rocks, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the Peak District.
From there, the walk takes you along the edge to Black Hill (Holme Moss trig point).
The loop back down past the old quarry and into Crowden offers some lovely scenery and a chance to stretch your legs.
While the walk is perfect on a warm summer's day, expect a few boggy sections and wet feet if you're hiking on a rainy day.
But that's all part of the fun when it comes to hiking, right?
7. Chrome Hill
Total Distance: 8.5 km
Duration: 3-4 hours
Elevation: 350 m
Starting Location: The Quiet Woman, Earl Sterndale (SK17 0BU)
Parking: Earl Sterndale (SK17 0BU)
Route Description: Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill Walk
Last but not least, we have Chrome Hill, a beautiful hike that takes you through some of the most picturesque countryside in the Peak District.
Known as the Devils Back, this hike is perfect for those looking for a less challenging walk, with rolling hills and stunning views at every turn.
Ascend Parkhouse Hill before following the well trodden path to the summit of Chrome Hill, which offers views that are simply breathtaking.
Continue along the path to Stoop Farm before returning to Earl Sterndale.
A delightful family friendly walk in the Peak District.
The Peak District is a hiker's paradise, with a wide range of hikes to suit all skill levels and interests.
So why not grab your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and head out to explore some of the best hikes the Peak District has to offer? You won't be disappointed!
Whilst you’re here check out these fun things to do in the Peak District and make it a holiday to remember!
Looking for the perfect adventure gift? Head of to the My Mountains and Me Shop to fuel your wanderlust!
