A walker's guide to the Peak District
Steep limestone valleys. Spectacular sunsets. Dramatic ridges and stark moorland plateaus. The Peak District National Park is a wonder of nature and home to many enchanting walks. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an advanced trekker with miles upon miles under your belt, you’ll find Peak District walks for all abilities.
So you can make the most of exploring the cherished Peak District countryside, here we’ll look at some of the top trails, sublime sights and classic Peak District pubs to enjoy along the way.
The best walks in the Peak District
To help you get to grips with some of the landscapes on offer, here are some of the best Peak District walks to try, suitable for a range of abilities.Monsal trail
This traffic-free route is ideal for beginner hikers, families, wheelchair users and dog walkers. The trail is 8.5 miles long, stretching between Blackwell Mill in Chee Dale and Coombs Road in Bakewell, but there are plenty of access points along the way connecting to footpaths and bridleways.
Highlights include the iconic Headstone Viaduct and the family-friendly surfaces through White Peak Hills. It’s one of the most famous and best walks in the Peak District for the whole family.
Tissington Trail
This popular walk in the Peak District route stretches for 13 miles from Ashbourne to Parsley Hay. It’s ideal for leisurely strolls, bike rides with the family and hikes with your four-legged friend in tow.
Highlights along the way include the pretty villages of Tissington and Thorpe. You can even hike up to the summit of the famous Thorpe Cloud, although it’s quite a tough walk from the village.
Dovedale
If you regard yourself as a good walker, strap on your hiking boots and head out to Dovedale. Although far from the longest Peak District walks you can do, at around 640m it’s a moderately difficult hike, unsuitable for prams, pushchairs and wheelchairs.
Begin at the Dovedale car park and simply take the path along the River Dove until you reach the famous stepping stones at the foot of Thorpe Cloud. And don’t forget to drink in the incredible views along the way. You’ll soon see why it’s one of the best walks in the Peak District.
Lathkill Dale
If you want to take in the beauty of one of England's finest limestone valleys, there is nowhere better than Lathkill Dale. This steep-sided valley is flanked by limestone cliffs with the River Lathkill running alongside.
This Peak District walk is a 4.5-mile circular trail that takes roughly two and a half hours to complete and is considered moderately challenging by seasoned hikers. Look out for the Tufa Dam Waterfall and marvel at the beauty of nature.
Kinder Scout
Renowned as the highest point in the Peak District, Kinder Scout is a moorland plateau and National Nature Reserve in the Dark Peak area. The circular route is a challenging hike for experienced walkers and dogs with plenty of energy.
The full trail is 7.5 miles, and it should take you between 4.5 and 5.5 hours to complete. The views from the top are well worth the hike, making it one of the most rewarding Peak District walks you can do.
Stanage Edge
Located north of Hathersage and regarded as one of the best walks in the Peak District, Stanage Edge is very popular with experienced walkers and climbers. The edge itself stretches for four miles, and the views across the Dark Peak moorlands and Hope Valley are awe-inspiring.
The walk from Hathersage and back is a circular route across six miles that’s challenging and not recommended for beginners. Make sure you take plenty of water if you’re hitting this trail on a warm day.
The best natural sights in the Peak District
The Peak District is full of places where you can experience the very best of nature. Where awe-inspiring views abound and Mother Nature reigns supreme. Here are some of our favourites.Thor’s Cave
This natural cave is set within a steep limestone crag, offering views to die for over the surrounding countryside. Always take great care when exploring this natural site, as its steep and slippery routes are only accessible on foot.
Mam Tor
With its name meaning Mother Hill, Mam Tor is a 517m hill near Castleton in the High Peak of Derbyshire. It’s a straightforward walk to the top, ideal for kids and dogs, and the views are always worth it.
Winnats Pass
This hill pass and limestone gorge in the Peak District offers up some incredible views and breathtaking natural beauty. It’s best accessed by car, but the road can get busy in peak times, so you may prefer to walk from Castleton.
Ladybower Reservoir
Ladybower Reservoir is a large Y-shaped reservoir surrounded by gorgeous scenery with views of water, woodland and moorland. Stretch your legs along the many circular walking routes nearby, and don’t miss viewpoints like Bamford Edge.
River Wye
As one of the best-known rivers in the Peak District, the River Wye is a 22-mile limestone river with some impeccable views from its banks. Bakewell rests upon the river, meaning it’s easy to reach the riverbanks from the village.Top Peak District attractions
As well as lovely walking routes, fantastic vistas and the beauty of nature, there’s so much more to explore in the Peak District. Whether you’re visiting for the day, a weekend away or a longer escape, spend your time discovering history at the following.Chatsworth House
Step inside the doors of one of Derbyshire’s finest country houses. Known as a centre for creativity, this beautiful stately home features countless works of art and artefacts spanning over 4,000 years. Take your time discovering the 25 rooms in the stately home with highlights including the Painted Hall, State Rooms and Sculpture Gallery.
And when you’re fully up to date on the history of the Devonshire family, step into the sunshine and while away a few hours traversing the gardens. With 105 acres to explore, there are historic gardens, modern waterworks, and lots of hidden gems to find.
Haddon Hall
Around two miles south of Bakewell, Haddon Hall is awash with history and charm. Built over 900 years ago, it’s one of the country’s most historically significant stately homes. The house itself is a wonder of medieval and Elizabethan architecture, while the outside promises majestic blooming roses in the beautiful Elizabethan walled gardens.
Visit at Christmas for the Mercatum Christmas Markets and come in October for the Little School of Sorcery, where kids can get into the Halloween spirit.
Blue John Cavern
Hold onto your hats as you descend deep underground to seek out the treasures of the Blue John Cavern. Said to be the finest cavern of its kind in Europe, it’s truly a wonder of nature.
Book a guided tour to learn about the formation of these ancient limestone caverns, as well as the exclusive semi-precious mineral found only in this area known as Blue John. It’s dog-friendly too, welcoming furry friends with a taste for history and adventure.
More things to do in the Peak District
Alongside walks and historical attractions, it’s also lovely to wander around quaint Peak District towns and villages sampling local delicacies, chatting with locals, shopping at farmer’s markets and popping into countryside pubs for a well-deserved pint.
Put the likes of Bakewell, Castleton and Edale on your agenda and save some time to explore. You’ll find many walks starting there too, so you can leave your car and hike into the great outdoors with ease.
A post-walk pint
We truly cherish the Great British countryside at Chef & Brewer, and there are few better places than the Peak District in our book. It’s home to limestone cliffs, astonishing views, thrilling hikes and dog-friendly rambles.
We also cherish country pubs: places for the little moments of delight, where the flavours shift with the changing seasons, and there’s always a warm welcome and a cold pint waiting for you.
So if you’re looking for Peak District pubs, these are a couple of our favourites to add the perfect finishing touch to your trip.
Dog & Partridge, Tutbury
Set in the historic Staffordshire town of Tutbury, the Dog & Partridge exudes countryside charm with its striking black-and-white half-timbered frame. Step inside its doors and rest your weary legs – you’ll be in for a warm welcome, hearty traditional pub food and a well-stocked bar.
Need to get your head down? You’ll also find nine charming hotel rooms offering contemporary touches blended with the building’s original features. The beds are comfy and cosy, and the breakfast will set you up for another day of hiking in the Peaks.
Hare & Hounds, Hyde
If you’re travelling to the Peak District from the North West, finish off your day of exploring with a pitstop at the Hare & Hounds in Hyde. This rustic country pub was built in 1728 and still retains many of its original features, including its exposed beams and low ceilings.
Stop by for a traditional meal and a refreshing drink as you breathe in the views of the Welsh Mountains and Pennines on clear days. As far as Peak District pubs go, it’s a staple.
Top tips for exploring the peaks
To get the most out of your adventures in the Peak District, follow our top tips:
✔ Choose the best time to come
While you can explore the Peak District any time of year, the best period to visit is from May to September. You’ll get the best weather for outdoor activities.
✔ Decide what you want from your trip
The Peak District offers up challenging walks and tough terrain to scale. Still, there are also simple walks suitable for beginners, and even families with prams and buggies, like the Monsal Trail. Choose what’s right for you and plan your trip accordingly.
✔ Discover something new
There are many well-known sights in the Peak District, and while it’s always good to tick off your bucket list, it’s fun to discover hidden gems too. Manifold Way and the Tissington Trail are often much quieter than the Monsal Trail, so a good place to start.
✔ Bring the right gear
For walks in the Peak District, it’s important to be properly prepared. Make sure you bring:
- Strong and comfortable walking boots
- Outdoor clothing, with spare layers
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Hat and gloves
- Medium-sized waterproof backpack
- Suncream and sunglasses if the sun comes out
- Small torch or head torch
- Small waste bag so you can carry all your rubbish home
- Plenty of water and snacks – including for any pets
The easiest way to get to the Peak District is to drive, but public transport is also an option. There are plenty of buses that run throughout the area, and you’ll find train stations at the likes of Edale and Hope, with various connections to major cities close by.
Ready to ramble
Winding rivers, imposing cliffs and underground caverns are just some of the wonderful natural attractions to explore in the Peak District.
Get out into nature and discover the many delights of the national park on foot with our Peak District walks. And when your feet are weary and your stomach is rumbling, stop to rest and recharge in a countryside pub, as you reminisce on the adventures you’ve just had.
Book a table or stop by one of our Peak District pubs, where a warm welcome, classic pub grub and delightful drinks await. Wherever you’re heading, it’s quick and easy to find a Chef & Brewer pub near you