The Peak District is full of excellent places to Stay, Eat, Drink & Do. It is the perfect place for a UK holiday, as it is packed with gems, and so much of it is easily accessible for a large part of the UK. Just over an hour from Birmingham and Liverpool, and even less from Manchester and Sheffield, it is great for those looking for a weekend escape. Its ideal location means it is also somewhere that can be visited in a day, especially now the days are getting longer. What better activity for a day trip than an early alarm clock and an energising walk, in one of the most picturesque parts of the country. Here we go through five of the best walks in the Peak District, ready for you to get out there and explore for yourself. 

Kinder Scout

As the highest point in the Peak District at 636 meters, Kinder Scout offers a challenging 8.7-mile (14 km) circular route with an elevation gain of 550 meters. The hike includes steep ascents, notably via Jacob’s Ladder, and traverses varied terrain, including rocky paths and peat bogs. Typically completed in 4 to 5 hours, it’s suited for experienced hikers. The plateau provides panoramic views and features like Kinder Downfall, the tallest waterfall in the Peak District.

Derwent Edge Circular (from Fairholmes Car Park)

This 10.5-mile (17 km) circular walk begins at Fairholmes Car Park near Ladybower Reservoir. Considered hard due to its length and elevation changes, it takes approximately 5 hours to complete. The trail ascends through woodland to open moorland, featuring gritstone formations like the Wheel Stones and Salt Cellar. Walkers are rewarded with expansive views of the Derwent Valley. The Fairholmes Visitor Centre provides parking and facilities, and the nearby village of Bamford offers additional amenities.   

Youlgreave and Lathkill Dale Circular

This 7.6-mile (12.2 km) walk, starting in the village of Youlgreave, is moderately challenging and takes about 3 to 4 hours. The route traverses field paths and quiet lanes, passing through Lathkill Dale with its limestone scenery and clear river. The terrain includes some rocky and uneven sections. 

Wolfscote Dale and Biggin Dale Circular

This 7.35-mile (11.8 km) circular walk, starting near Hartington, is considered moderately challenging with an ascent of 255 meters. Taking approximately 2 to 3 hours, the route follows the River Dove through Wolfscote Dale and returns via Biggin Dale. The path is generally flat with some short climbs, suitable for walkers of various abilities.

Mam Tor Circular

Known as the “Shivering Mountain,” Mam Tor offers a 3-mile (4.8 km) circular walk with a total ascent of 239 meters. The moderately difficult route takes about 2 hours and features stone steps leading to the summit, providing panoramic views of the Hope Valley and Edale Valley. Starting from the National Trust Mam Tor Car Park, the trail includes sections of the Great Ridge. Nearby Castleton offers amenities and attractions like the Blue John Cavern.

These are a range of walks, in different locations within the Peaks and of varied difficulties. If you’re making a day of it, be sure you take a look at these brilliant places to Eat, Drink & Do, and if you’re sticking around for longer, here are some brilliant places to Stay!