Must-Do Peak District Walks
The Peak District is packed with amazing walks, from the rugged moorlands of the Dark Peak to the limestone villages and farmland of the White Peak. Whether you’re after a short stroll to a viewpoint, a scramble across dramatic hills, or a full-day challenge, these 7 Peak District walks are some of my favourites.
Many of these routes also help complete the Peak District Ethels Challenge or the trig point bagging challenge, so you might discover parts of the Peak District you haven’t explored before. Distances range from around 6 miles up to 17 miles, with walks suitable for families, casual walkers, and experienced hikers.
These Peak District walks are all different in terms of their length and difficulty, but if you want to find a specific walk you can use the search box to the right (or below if browsing on mobile).
Walks in the Dark Peak
Black Hill Circular – 7.5 Miles, Moderate Challenge
A favourite for fans of bleak, quiet moorland. This Holme to Black Hill circular walk starts outside a pub and follows the Pennine Way before descending to Blackpool Bridge. On hot days, the pools here are perfect for a quick dip. Ideal for walkers who like solitude and dramatic scenery.
Highlights: Quiet moorland, Pennine Way, Blackpool Bridge, pub at the finish.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7.5 miles
Bleaklow to Higher Shelf Stones – 6 Miles, Moderate Challenge
Explore rugged moorland and historic sites, including the B29 Superfortress plane crash. This circular hike visits Hern Stones, Wain Stones, Bleaklow Head, and the Higher Shelf Stones trig point. Navigation can be tricky in poor weather.
Highlights: Plane crash site, Bleaklow moors, Higher Shelf Stones, Hern & Wain Stones.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6 miles
Hayfield to Kinder Scout Circular Walk – 10 Miles, Challenging
A classic Kinder Scout route, ascending William Clough before crossing the plateau and bagging 2 of 3 Kinder Scout trig points. Ends near a pub for a well-earned drink.
Highlights: Kinder Scout plateau, William Clough, trig points, moorland views.
Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 10 miles
Castleton, Mam Tor and The Great Ridge Walk – 7 Miles, Moderate
Mam Tor straddles the Dark and White Peak. This circular route climbs Mam Tor via Broken Road, follows The Great Ridge to Lose Hill, and descends into Castleton. Perfect for families or walkers seeking spectacular views over Edale.
Highlights: Mam Tor, The Great Ridge, Lose Hill, panoramic Edale views.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7 miles
Walks in the White Peak
The Dragons Back Walk – 6 Miles, Moderate to Challenging
Explore Parkhouse Hill and Chrome Hill in the White Peak. This route involves some scrambling and steep descents (we slid down on our bums in places!). Bag 4 Peak District Ethels along the way.
Highlights: Parkhouse Hill, Chrome Hill, High Edge, Hollins Hill, Ethels challenge.
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Distance: 6 miles
The Roaches Walk – 5 Miles Options, Moderate
Famous for its rock formations and far-reaching views. This walk exploring The Roaches is ideal if you want a half-day adventure.
Highlights: Rock formations, panoramic views, Staffordshire moors.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5 miles
Baslow Edge Walk – 4 to 6 Miles, Easy to Moderate (H3)
Baslow Edge features a Facebook-famous herd of Highland cows and the Eagle Stone. Options include a short Baslow Edge walk or a longer Flask Edge and White Edge walk. Perfect for families or gentle afternoon walks.
Highlights: Highland cows, Eagle Stone, moorland views, easy walking.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 4 miles
Additional Peak District Walk Suggestions
- Derwent Reservoir and Slippery Stones Walk – scenic reservoir and river walk.
- Bamford Edge Walk: Peak District Sunsets – ideal for evening views over Ladybower Reservoir.
- Alport Castles and Westend Moor Trig Point – challenging moorland hike with summit views.
FAQ
Q1: Which Peak District walks are suitable for beginners?
A: Shorter routes like Baslow Edge (4 miles) and Mam Tor (7 miles) are beginner-friendly.
Q2: Which walks are best for challenging hikes?
A: Kinder Scout (10 miles), Dragons Back (6 miles with scrambling), and Black Hill Circular (7.5 miles) are more challenging and require fitness and navigation skills.
Q3: Are these walks suitable for families?
A: Yes, Mam Tor, Baslow Edge, and some shorter White Peak walks are ideal for families with children.
Q4: Can I use public transport to start these walks?
A: Many walks, including Hayfield to Kinder Scout and Castleton routes, start near train stations, making car-free walking possible.
Q5: Can dogs join these walks?
A: Most walks are dog-friendly, but some moorland areas and protected sites may have restrictions.
Q6: When is the best time to walk these routes?
A: Spring and summer offer clearer paths and views. Autumn and winter are beautiful but can be muddy or icy, especially on Dark Peak moors.
Do any of these walks take your fancy? If you need more Peak District walks inspiration, check out our Peak District walks organised by distance:
Long Peak District Walks 10 miles+
Easy Walks in the Peak District
10 Easy Peak District Walks With Kids (Under 10km)
The Most Beautiful Walks in the Peak District
You can also discover Peak District walks with pubs!
