Peak District (Top 10 walks): The finest walks in the Peak District National Park (UK National Parks: Top 10 Walks)

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Each of Ordnance Surveys OS Pathfinder guides feature a total of 28 circular routes varying in length and difficulty and have all been tried and tested by seasoned walkers. The routes range from extended strolls to exhilarating hikes, so there is something for everyone. Mam Tor, meaning “Mother Hill,” is located in the High Peak area and stands at 517 meters above sea level. From Higgar, you can see Carl Wark a short distance to the south. The path that takes you there drops down at the southernmost point of the Tor. It’s pretty obvious, unless you are there in fog! The guide introduces you to the area and highlights the most scenic walks. Each walk entry begins with a box giving start, distance, height gain, time, parking and route terrain. This is followed by a short overview highlighting the routes features. The main route finding instructions have paragraphs numbered corresponding to numbers on the OS map making navigation safe and easy. There are GPS references for all the route waypoints and the route is highlighted in yellow on the map. The guide also includes information on where to park, good pubs and places of interest along the route.

This is one of a series of books with great walking routes covering the most popular and scenic areas of Britain. England's first National Park is traditionally split into two area, known as the Dark and White Peak. The Dark Peak's ruggedly beautiful high gritstone moorlands and broad shale valleys in the north, contrast with the White Peak's rolling farmland and steep sided dales of the lighter limestone to the south. This guide features 40 circular walks covering both the dry-walled uplands as well as the ancient flower-rich woodlands and riversides in the dales and gorges.This Peak District walk allows you to explore one of the most mystical, picturesque, and charming spots in the entire park: Lud’s Church. The latest book by acclaimed rambling scribe Mark Reid, it once again draws upon his extensive knowledge of the North Country's footpaths, historic villages and premiership boozers." There’s no doubt at all that Great Britain is an absolutely beautiful place to hike: after all, this is a nation that has enshrined the Right to Ramble in law! A visit to the Saddleworth Museum and Art Gallery, which is located just 2.5 miles (4km) from Dovestones on the High Street in Uppermill, is highly recommended. The former canalside woollen mill is stuffed full of curiosities and intriguing snippets of local history –from farming to brass bands, Roman soldiers to weaving mills. It's open every afternoon and includes hands-on exhibits for children and informative displays. Where to eat and drink A word of caution: do not underestimate the area. Walking on the high moors – Bleaklow, Kinder Scout, Derwent and Howden – requires excellent navigation skills, especially in winter. It also requires good equipment and a knowledge of how to use it, and clothing that is appropriate to the time of year. The use of walking poles when crossing moorland can be helpful for maintaining balance and forward motion. They can also be useful when descending some of the steeper sections of the walks.

Park at the Fox House Inn or nearby. Buses stop at the Fox House if you are using public transport. Other short walks from the Fox House can be found here >>. If you really want to get away from the crowds that you can find in some of the Peak District’s most popular walks, you need to consider hitting this trail.Paul Besley clearly knows this area of the Peak District well. He is a volunteer Ranger for the Peak District National Park and a member of Woodhead Mountain Rescue. I have always found Cicerone guidebooks to be well produced with excellent introductions to the area in question and containing detailed descriptions of well-chosen walks. This new guide is no exception. The multiple routes that cross the epic Peak District are a perfect showcase of the green landscapes and ancient isles. And hiking here is totally safe. The routes are well-trodden, well-signposted, and the weather is never too extreme. You start at the Longshaw Estate, and shortly after you’ll be heading out into the countryside on this well-marked trail. You’ll pass a charming area of woodlands on Froggatt Edge, that gives the trail an extra fantasy touch. Each walk entry begins with at-a-glance details of distance, time, terrain, parking and public transport access where available. Clear route-finding instructions are provided together with simple overview coloured sketch maps, but OS Explorer map sheet numbers are also provided. The text also includes brief notes on features of interest along the way and there are colour photographs throughout. I have always found Cicerone guidebooks to be well produced with excellent introductions to the area in question and containing detailed descriptions of well-chosen walks. This new guide is no exception.

Before you set off on your epic journey, take a moment to read through some of our tips and helpful safety advice: The park is made up of roughly two sections. The Dark Peak comprises the northern reaches of the park and is generally higher and wilder; the White Peak, on the other hand, is located in the south and is better known for its beautiful valleys and gorges. All walks have been plotted using Ordnance Survey online mapping tools. The main paper maps for the area are the OS Explorer Dark Peak OL1 and White Peak OL24. Harvey and the BMC Dark Peak maps are also useful. Always take a map and compass, even if you are using a GPS device. You’ll be starting alongside the scenic River Dane. Following downstream past Gradbach Mill, you’ll then be walking the public footpath, close to the river and through some green meadows. Eventually, you’ll reach Lud’s Church itself. Respect the natural environment –The Peak District is a protected area, and hiking among this slice of nature means leaving no trace behind. Do not disturb the natural environment, and keep away from animals — they’re minding their own business, so you should too.As you would expect from Cicerone, each walk is clearly detailed including distance, terrain and local points of interest. Some walks are easy, some more challenging, providing a range of difficulties for all. On sunny weekends the occasional ice cream van is always a welcome addition to the Dovestones car park. Otherwise, the nearest place for refreshments is a pub called The Clarence, about a mile (1.6km) away in Greenfield, which serves food daily. For more choice you'll have to try the cafes and pubs of nearby Uppermill. What to look out for Later on, you’ll head your way up onto Baslow Edge with views across the valley; sometimes you can see Highland cattle grazing here for a truly picturesque scene!

Staying in Manchester is a good option if you like having everything at your fingertips. You’re well served with accommodation, plenty of entertainment, and you’ll be close enough to the park. And don’t rush it; not only is the descent into the gorge always slippery, but it’s also got some epic atmosphere. Slow is the way to go!The Inn Way... series of walking guide books by Mark Reid offer an enjoyable and unique approach to discovering the wonderful countryside of England’s North Country ... as well as its wealth of hidden and unspoilt pubs. The Inn Way - the Ultimate Pub Walks Get your ass insured –It’s better to be safe than sorry —you’ve probably heard that from mom a few times. If you want to enjoy all the walks in Peak District without worrying too much, consider covering up with a solid travel insurance policy for the trip.