Best Walking Routes in the Peak District: From Gentle Strolls to Dramatic Peaks

Views over the Peak District

The Peak District, Britain's first national park, offers some of the most spectacular walking opportunities in the UK. From dramatic gritstone edges to peaceful dales, these diverse landscapes provide walks for every ability level.

Here's our guide to the finest routes this magnificent region has to offer while on a luxury cottage break in the peak district.

Kinder Scout Circuit: A Classic Peak District Challenge

Kinder Scout Circuit under Sunlight

Distance: 7.5 miles Difficulty: Challenging Time: 4.5-6 hours 

The highest point in the Peak District, Kinder Scout holds a special place in hiking history as the site of the 1932 Mass Trespass, an important event in the long campaign for public access to the countryside. This circular route from Edale takes you past dramatic gritstone formations, across the unique Kinder plateau, and provides breathtaking views across Manchester and the Pennines.

Highlights:

• Dramatic Kinder Downfall waterfall

• Unique peat landscape of the Kinder plateau

• Historic Jacob's Ladder path

• Stunning views from Crowden Tower

Dovedale to Milldale: A River Valley Paradise

Riverside walk down the River Dove

Distance: 3 miles (6 miles return) Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Time: 2-3 hours

This enchanting riverside walk showcases the White Peak's iconic limestone scenery at its finest. Following the crystal-clear River Dove, this well-maintained path takes you past dramatic limestone formations, through wooded gorges, and across the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones.

Highlights:

• Iconic Dovedale Stepping Stones

• Striking limestone features including Ilam Rock

• Opportunities to spot rich wildlife like dippers and kingfishers

• Peaceful Milldale village

Monsal Trail: A Family-Friendly Adventure

Views over Monsal Head

Distance: Up to 8.5 miles (one way) Difficulty: Easy Time: Variable - choose your distance

The Monsal Trail follows the route of a former railway line, where this traffic-free trail offers a perfectly level walk through some of the Peak District's most picturesque dales. The restored railway tunnels and impressive viaducts add a touch of industrial heritage to the natural beauty of the landscape.

Highlights:

• Crossing the Headstone Viaduct at Monsal Head

• Traversing the trail's lit railway tunnels

• Abundant wildlife spotting opportunities in Chee Dale

• Several family-friendly cafés located along the route

Mam Tor and Great Ridge Walk

View from the Mam Tor of the trail

Distance: 6.5 miles circular Difficulty: Moderate Time: 3-4 hours

Offering perhaps the most spectacular ridge walk in the Peak District, the Mam Tor circuit takes in the dramatic Great Ridge. This circular route provides panoramic views across both the Dark Peak and White Peak areas, earning Mam Tor the nickname of the 'Shivering Mountain'.

Highlights:

• Far-reaching vistas across the picturesque Hope Valley

• Remnants of an ancient hill fort atop Mam Tor

• The striking landslip face of Mam Tor itself

• The picture-perfect Winnats Pass

Chrome and Parkhouse Hills: The Dragon's Back

Photo copyright Simon Harrod and licenced for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.

Distance: 4 miles Difficulty: Challenging Time: 2-3 hours

These distinctive limestone hills, with their ridgeline resembling the back of a dragon, offer one of the most exhilarating walks in the White Peak. While the overall distance is relatively short, the steep ascents and descents make this a proper adventure.

Highlights:

• Unique and dramatic geological formations

• Spectacular 360-degree panoramic views

• Peaceful setting of the Earl Sterndale village

• Vibrant wildflower meadows in the summer months

Essential Walking Tips

Best Time to Visit

• Spring and autumn offer comfortable walking temperatures

• Winter brings dramatic scenery but requires proper preparation

• Summer provides long daylight hours but popular routes can be busy

What to Bring

• Reliable waterproof clothing

• Sturdy walking boots

• OS Maps (OL1 and OL24 cover most popular routes)

• Water and snacks

• Mobile phone (but don't rely on signal)

Local Facilities

• Many villages offer parking, toilets, and refreshments

• Local visitor centres provide up-to-date weather and path information

• Consider using local guide services for challenging routes

Conservation and Respect

Please remember to:

• Stick to marked paths to prevent erosion

• Close gates behind you

• Keep dogs under close control

• Take all litter home

• Respect local wildlife and livestock

Plan Your Peak District Walking Holiday

Ashford Mill, Derbyshire

Whether you're seeking challenging hikes or gentle strolls, the Peak District offers walking routes for every ability level. Premier Cottages' collection of luxury properties across the region provides the perfect base for your walking adventure, with comfortable beds, warming wood burners, and often boot rooms and drying facilities for wet weather gear.

Many of our properties offer direct access to walking trails, and our cottage owners are passionate local experts who can provide detailed route advice and recommendations. From historic farmhouses to contemporary barn conversions, each property has been selected to ensure you enjoy premium comfort after your day's exploration.

Ready to plan your Peak District walking holiday? Explore our collection of luxury cottages across the national park, and take the first step toward your perfect walking getaway.