Peak District Walks for Hot Weather
When the sun is shining, there’s nothing better than getting outdoors, but a long hike across exposed hills can quickly become hard work in the heat. The good news is that there are plenty of Peak District walks for hot weather, from shady woodland trails and peaceful river valleys to higher routes where you can enjoy a refreshing breeze.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly stroll beside a pretty stream or a longer adventure through cool, tree-lined dales, this collection of shady Peak District walks has a walk for everyone. Browse the walks below to discover some of the best routes for staying comfortable while making the most of a sunny day in the Peak District.
Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you go! I like to use Mountain Forecast as it has forecasts for each specific hill, and also the MWIS. Checking a few places will give you a better idea of what the top temperatures will be and whether there will be a breeze, which makes a big difference.
I’m sure it goes without saying, but make sure you’re prepared for hot weather with plenty of water, salty snacks, suncream, hat, bug spray etc.
Here are some walks, perfect for hot weather:
Padley Gorge
Probably the classic hot weather walk. The ancient oak woodland provides plenty of shade, and the stream keeps the air noticeably cooler. You can make it a short stroll or combine it with the surrounding moorland if it’s not too hot.
Wyming Brook
A fantastic choice on a warm day, with its rushing stream, shady woodland, and rocky cascades creating a peaceful walk that feels refreshingly cool even in the height of summer. It’s also a stunning place to visit in Autumn.
Chee Dale
The limestone gorge stays surprisingly cool thanks to its steep sides and woodland. Walking alongside the river and crossing the famous stepping stones makes this an ideal summer route.
Lathkill Dale
One of the Peak District’s prettiest river valleys. The clear river, limestone cliffs and patches of woodland provide a pleasant walk even on warm days. This is a protected area, and swimming (either human or dogs) is not allowed.
Three Shires Head
A lovely walk to the historic packhorse bridge where three counties meet. The stream is perfect for paddling, and there are shady spots along the valley.
Dovedale
Although popular, Dovedale is excellent on hot days thanks to the River Dove, mature trees and impressive limestone cliffs that provide shade during parts of the day. Be sure to get there early to get parked, and don’t contribute to the rubbish that gets left behind.
Blacka Moor Woodland
The woodland around Blacka Plantation offers a much cooler alternative to the open moorland and links nicely with nearby Longshaw.
Macclesfield Forest
Although just outside the National Park boundary, this is one of the best places for a shaded summer walk. Forest tracks, reservoirs and plenty of tree cover make it ideal during a heatwave. Park at Trentabank (Clarke Ln, Sutton, Macclesfield SK11 0NS) and wander through the woodland. We have only passed through on a couple of walks.
Derwent and Howden Dams
For a longer, flatter walk, a loop around Derwent and Howden Reservoirs is a good one to try. There are no huge climbs and lots of the route is in shade. There’s also the added bonus of a dip at Slippery Stones.
Stand Wood at Chatsworth
The historic woodland surrounding Chatsworth House is always nice to explore, but even better when you need to cool down.
- Chatsworth Walk | 8 Miles
- Chatsworth Moors | 9 Miles
- Three Monuments Circular Walk From Chatsworth | 7.5 Miles
Langsett Woods
Langsett offers miles of peaceful forest trails beneath the trees, making it one of the best places in the Peak District to enjoy a shaded walk on a hot summer’s day. You can also head out onto the moors if the weather isn’t too hot, but there isn’t much shade outside of the woods.
- Langsett Reservoir and Langsett Moors Circular Walk | 5 Miles
- Langsett Reservoir Walk | 4 Miles
- Langsett to Pike Lowe | 8 Miles
Higher Walks that Catch the Breeze
If you don’t mind less shade, these areas are often noticeably cooler because of their elevation. Here are some more Peak District walks for hot weather:
Mam Tor and the Great Ridge
It’s a classic Peak District walk, but there is nearly always a breeze up there! Go early before it gets busy. If it’s too hot, you can always drop down into Castleton from Hollins Cross and head for some refreshment in one of the pubs 🍻
Kinder Scout
The western side of the plateau is much quieter than the eastern side, and if you choose a route which scrambles up a clough you’ll have the added benefit of the water keeping you cool. Grindsbook Clough and Crowden Clough are popular routes (and for good reason).
Win Hill
Win Hill has some of the best views in the Peak District on a clear day. The woodland to the north of Win Hill is a really lovely place to walk on a hot day and the Yorkshire Bridge Inn is nearby for some post walk refreshment.
Stanage Edge
Stanage is a great place to walk whatever the weather but even more so on a hot day when you can escape the heat and enjoy a cooling breeze. You can also explore Balcony Cave (the one that most people call Robin Hood’s Cave) for a break from the sun.
You might also like:
- 17 Amazing Peak District Waterfall Walks
- Wild Swimming in the Peak District
- Peak District Caves Walks
- Peak District Stepping Stones Walks
I hope this collection of Peak District walks for hot weather has been useful! I’d love to know if you walk any of these – find me on Facebook and let me know!
