Peak District Trail and Fell Running Routes

If you're a runner looking to challenge yourself while immersing in stunning natural beauty, the Peak District is an easily accessible destination in the heart of the UK. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, this national park offers the perfect playground for trail running and fell running enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a beginner eager to explore new terrain, the Peak District has something to offer everyone.

Before we recommend the best routes it's worth distinguishing between trail running and fell running, two activities that are often mentioned together but have key differences.

Trail Running involves running on paths, tracks, and unpaved routes that weave through woods, hills, and valleys. It's about enjoying the journey as much as the destination, with a focus on endurance and taking in the natural surroundings.

Fell Running, on the other hand, is a more challenging discipline. It involves running up and down steep hills, often off-trail and across rugged ground. Fell running is all about testing your limits against the elements and the landscape.

The Peak District offers a diverse range of terrains, from gentle rolling hills to rugged high moorland. With over 500 square miles of picturesque countryside, it's no wonder that the Peak District is a hotspot for runners seeking adventure.

Whether you're after a gentle trail through woodland or a tough fell run with steep ascents and descents, you'll find it here.

Stanage Edge Circular | Starting Point: Hathersage | Difficulty: Moderate

Derwent Valley | Starting Point: Ladybower Reservoir | Difficulty: East to Moderate

Monsal Trail | Starting Point: Bakewell | Difficulty: Easy

Manifold Trail | Starting Point: Hulme End | Difficulty: Easy

Tissington & High Peak Trail | Starting Point: Parsley Hay | Difficulty: Easy

Kinder Scout via Jacob's Ladder | Starting Point: Edale | Difficulty: Hard

Mam Tor & The Great Ridge | Starting Point: Castleton | Difficulty: Moderate to Hard

Bleaklow Head | Starting Point: Snake Pass | Difficulty: Hard

Curbar Edge & Froggatt Ridge | Starting Point: Curbar Edge | Difficulty: Intermediate

Chrome Hill & Parkhurst | Starting Point: Hollinsclough | Difficulty: Hard

Running Holiday?

After a day of running the peaks and valleys, there's nothing better than returning to a cosy cottage to relax and recover. Our holiday cottages are perfectly located for easy access to the best running trails in the Peak District, some of the trails from your doorstep.

With comfortable interiors and beautiful surroundings, you'll find everything you need for a perfect running getaway.

Running Club - Perfect for Group Stays?

Planning a group running holiday in the stunning Peak District with your running club is the perfect way to combine fitness, adventure, and camaraderie. Staying at our large group accommodation offers the ideal base for your running club, with spacious, comfortable houses designed for sports teams to go away and stay in twin or double rooms.

You'll have easy access to scenic trails, rolling hills, and breathtaking landscapes, making it perfect for runners of all levels. After a day of exploring the peaks, relax together in communal spaces, games rooms and dine altogether. It's the ultimate runner's retreat.

Booked a Running Event in the Peak District?

If you're a fan of off-road running and embracing the adventure race, few experiences can match the excitement and challenge of one of the many off-road races such as the Ultra X England in the stunning Peak District. This two-day, 125km ultra marathon pushes athletes through rugged trails, rolling hills, and sweeping landscapes. 

But, after a long day of conquering peaks and navigating the wilderness, the comfort of one of our cosy holiday cottages or luxury apartments at Rock Mill can be the perfect retreat to recharge and relax.

After hours of running in unpredictable weather, our accommodation gives you the privacy and tranquillity to unwind - the perfect post-race experience. When the race is done and dusted, and you're reflecting on your achievements, a holiday cottage offers the perfect environment to relax and recover. 

You can prepare a hearty meal in a fully equipped kitchen or even enjoy a home-cooked dinner from a local pub nearby. This homely comfort helps restore your energy for the next day of intense running, unlike the hustle and bustle of staying in a busy hotel.

With the freedom to set your own schedule, no check-out rush, if you're heading to the Peak District for an off-road race, consider making our holiday cottages or luxury apartments your home away from home.

Whether you're here for the trails or the fells, the Peak District promises an unforgettable running adventure. Lace up your shoes and get ready to explore one of the UK's most spectacular natural playgrounds!