Five of the Best Walks in the Peak District
Located in the heart of England, the Peak District National Park is a natural wonderland that attracts millions of visitors each year.
Founded in 1951, it was the first of Britain’s 15 national parks and spans an impressive 555 square miles according to the Peak District National Park Media Center. It also offers 1,600 miles of public walking terrain (at any level), with 64 of these miles accessible to disabled people.
What many people might not know, is around 20 million people live within an hour of the Peak District and a staggering 50 million people live within a four hours’ journey! With such a stunning part of the world on our doorstep, it is undoubtedly one of the best places to plan a short break, but with so much choice, it can be difficult to know where to go and what walks might suit you the best.
Here are some of our recommendations for the best Peak District walks to consider for your next visit…
– Mam Tor & Winnats Pass
This route tops our list not only for the amazing scenery offered throughout but also for the dramatic viewpoint that overlooks Kind Scout and the Eden Valley when you reach the Mam Tor summit. The walk is for beginners/intermediates, is about 6.5 km long and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. If that’s not enough, you can add an additional 3.5 km at the end of your walk.
Looking for the best place to stay? The Losehill House Hotel and Spa is located only a short 15-minute drive from the Mam Tor trailhead and is described as the Peak District’s ‘best-kept secrets’.
– The Heritage Way at Derwent Valley
This route is one of the Peak District’s long-distance walks, covering around 55 miles in total. Although it might be difficult, if not impossible, to do in one weekend, we recommend checking out even a small portion of this trail, as it provides the perfect opportunity to explore the River Derwent.
– High & Low Bradfield
If you don’t want walking to take up your entire stay or if you want to visit multiple areas, the High and Low Bradfield walk is an ideal choice. The route is only 1.8 miles long and takes about an hour to complete, making it possible to visit other landmarks in the area.
The Whitley Hall in Sheffield is a great place to stay if you are considering the Yorkshire area of the Peak District. The trailhead is about a 20-minute drive from the historic manor, so you can be back in time for afternoon tea on the peacock-filled lawn.
– Bakewell Walking Route
The Bakewell Walking Route is located on the famous Chatsworth Estate and is known for boasting some of the best scenery in the country. There are two routes available, one 6 miles long and the other 8 miles long, but both will end at the ‘gem of Derbyshire’, the Chatsworth House for tea and cake after your long walk.
The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley is a charming traditional inn with great food and ales. It’s only an 8-minute drive from the start of the route, so you will be able to make the most out of your stay in the area.
– Birchen Edge Walking Route
The Great Chatsworth Estate is so beautiful, it deserved a second appearance on our list. The Birchen Edge Walking Route is another must-see, as it offers the chance to see some of the best of Chatsworth. This includes a 148-step climb to a historic hunting tower for those looking for an extra ‘leg-burning’ challenge.
The Devonshire Arms at Beeley is another great choice of places to stay on the Chatsworth Estate. It is described as a chic and luxurious inn and is one of a number of the hotels owned by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.
The Possibilities are Endless
Although these are some of our favourite walks, these aren’t the only areas you should think about visiting during your time in the Peak District. Other unforgettable routes to add to your list are:
– The Roaches and Lud’s Church
– National Trust Longshaw Estate
Have you stayed in any of our suggested Peak District locations? We’d love to know what you thought of your stay. Share your experience with us here.
For more ideas and inspiration of where to stay in the Peak District and the rest of the United Kingdom, visit our collection of luxury, hand-selected hotels.