The Peak District National Park offers a spectacular variety of scenery and routes to be explored – from steep-sided limestone dales to the dramatic high moorlands. You are truly spoilt with the number of Peak District walking trails on offer right on your doorstep.
If you're looking to go walking in The Peak District then there is something for individuals, families and walking groups looking for a challenge.
Tissington trail was formerly the London and North Western Railway (LNWR) between Buxton and Ashbourne first opened in 1899. Following the closure of the line around seventy years later, the Peak District National Park bought the route in 1971 and turned it into a traffic-free trail for walkers and cyclists. The Tissington Trail runs for 13 miles from Parsley Hay (53.1706°N 1.7828°W) in the north to Ashbourne (53.0196°N 1.7397°W) in the south.
Similarly the High Peak Railway line first opened in 1831 and was mainly designed to carry minerals and goods between Cromford Canal and the Peak Forest Canal. Following the closure of the line, the Peak District National Park bought the route in 1971 and turned it into a traffic free trail for walkers and cyclists.The High Peak Trail runs for 17 miles from Dowlow (53.2059°N 1.8349°W) near Buxton to High Peak Junction at Cromford (53.1004°N 1.5354°W).
Wetton to Ilam walk is a moderately, challenging 10 mile walk starting at Ilam Park offering far reaching views. This Peak District walk visits two contrasting valleys. The Manifold valley is quiet and unassuming whereas Dovedale is usually busy and full of life. Ilam Park to the stepping stones in Dovedale walk is a popular moderate route with loads of points of interest along the way. Including the famous ‘Peak District stepping stones’ set amongst the rolling hills. This popular attraction can get quite busy during the warmer months due to its beautiful surrounds and plentiful grassed areas making it a great spot for families to enjoy picnics and a laze about.
A fabulous walk to take in many of the Peak District habitats is this lovely 5 mile route around the magnificent Ladybower Reservoir. This walk leads you all the way around the Ladybower Reservoir, taking in the natural surroundings and the top end of the reservoir you will walk past the mighty structure of the famous Derwent Dam. Used as the practice sight by the Dambusters in World War II. Make this walk more challenging by heading up onto Back Tor once you have past the head of Derwent Dam, this strenuous hike to the top is well worth it with views all the way across to Kinder Scout and Sheffield, learn about the tale of Lost Lad and follow the pack horse route past incredible gritstone structures known as the Salt Cellar and the Waggon and Horses, follow this route past Derwent Edge and down through fields back to the reservoir and car park.
In 1932 around 500 walkers, mostly from Manchester, trespassed en masse and walked from Hayfield to Kinder Scout to secure access rights to open country for all to enjoy forever. Today you can walk in their footsteps and enjoy the barren Dark Peak moorland landscape that others fought so hard for. This is a challenging walk and suitable only for the more experienced walkers. With epic views (if the weather plays nice) and a chance to visit the Kinder Downfall this walk will leave you with lasting memories of this stunning and wild part of the Peak District
Chrome and Parkhouse Hill (A.K.A The Dragons Back)
Without a doubt one of the best and more challenging walks in the Peak District. You need a head for heights for this one. Chrome and Parkhouse hill are two of the peakier peaks in the Peak District, and whilst they are not the highest of hills in the area, they are certainly the steepest. This route takes 3-4 hours depending on fitness levels and whether you take a pit stop at the lovely tea rooms in Hollinsclough. Start by parking in Earl Sterndale and head over Hitter Hill before crossing the road to face and climb Parkhouse Hill. Stop at the summit to take in the views - you will need a beather! The head down the steep descent once at the bottom its a short stroll over to the second ascent this time up Chrome Hill, this one is not quite as steep and slightly more enjoyable, although your legs and lungs might not think so! Again rest at the summit and take in the incredible views. Then continue onwards down the other side and over to Booth Farm. The rest of the walk consists of lovely fields and meadering paths before a slow descent to the village of Hollinsclough. Stop here at the village hall tea rooms - its excellent! Then continue through Hollinsclough village back to the base of Parkhouse Hill, over Hitter Hill and back to your car.
The Peak District is very popular with dog walking. With its beautiful country side, from moorlands and woodlands to riverside rambles.
There are so many walks and trails for your four legged friend to join you on! See our Top 10 Dog friendly walks blog