The Peak District is one of the UK’s most iconic outdoor destinations. As Britain’s first national park, it offers dramatic gritstone edges, rolling limestone valleys and sweeping moorland views that are perfect for walkers year-round.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a family-friendly countryside stroll or a scenic ridge walk with panoramic views, the Peak District has something for every level of adventurer.
Here are some of the best walks around the Peak District to add to your outdoor bucket list, and links to maps.
Key: 🟢-Easy 🟡-Moderate 🔴-Challenging
The Walks:
Torside Miles Without Stiles
3.4km return (1.7km one-way) – 1 hr – 🟢
This accessible Peak District walk starts from Torside Car Park and follows a smooth section of the TransPennine Trail through memorial woodlands to a viewing platform and ponds along Longdendale’s reservoir corridor. It’s mostly flat, well-surfaced and free of steps or stiles - ideal for testing lightweight layers and trail footwear, and perfect for easier days out with family, prams or assisted walkers while taking in wide valley scenery with minimal effort.
Mam Tor Circular
5km – 2hrs –🟡
Starting at Mam Nick car park, this classic Peak District walk offers sweeping views over Edale Valley and the surrounding moors. The route isn’t technical, but includes some steep climbs and stone steps – perfect for testing breathable layers and sturdy walking boots in variable British weather. Ideal for a quick dose of Peak District drama without committing to a full day hike.
Froggatt, Curbar & White Edge Circular
9.6km – 3hrs –🟡
Starting at Curbar Gap National Trust car park, this classic Peak District route links three spectacular gritstone edges with wideopen moorland views. The path isn’t technical, but there are some steep, stony and narrow sections - perfect for testing waterproof layers and sturdy walking boots in exposed weather. Keep an eye out for red deer roaming Big Moor, and there’s even the option to stop for a pub lunch halfway round if you fancy a proper break.
Hardwick Sculpture Trail
5.3km – 1.5hrs –🟡
Starting at Hardwick Garden Gates, this sculptural walk takes you through parkland dotted with handcrafted stone sculptures by the Hardwick Masons - a great blend of art and countryside. The path isn’t technical, but it’s moderate in length and involves some gentle ups and downs, making it a good choice for testing breathable layers and dependable trail shoes while enjoying historic estate scenery.
Derwent & Howden Reservoirs Circular
16.9km – 6–7hrs –🟡
Starting from the Fairholmes Visitor Centre perched between Derwent and Ladybower reservoirs, this classic Upper Derwent Valley walk loops around Derwent and Howden Reservoirs and through mixed woodland and open moorland. The terrain is mostly well-defined paths and quiet access roads with some gentle climbs and moorland sections - perfect for testing waterproof layers and sturdy boots on a long day out in the Peak District. Along the way you’ll pass historical features including memorials to the Dambusters training runs and the old dam workers’ settlement, plus lovely riverside and forest stretches
Kinder Scout Mass Trespass Walk
13km – 5–6hrs -🔴
This one follows in the footsteps of the famous 1932 mass trespass that helped secure public access to moorland in the Peak District. Starting from Station Road/Bowden Bridge in Hayfield, the route climbs onto the open Dark Peak moorland and crosses the vast Kinder Scout plateau, taking in moorland, Pennine Way sections and dramatic upland views. The terrain isn’t technical, but it’s a long day with steady climbs and exposed sections - perfect for testing waterproof layers, hardy boots and endurance on classic Peak District terrain.
Kinder Scout Circular
26km – 9hrs –🔴
Starting from Edale village or nearby Hayfield, this iconic Peak District trek takes you onto the wild moorland plateau of Kinder Scout, the highest point in the national park. The terrain is demanding and expansive - expect long distances, steady climbs, boggy moorland and exposed summit sections - ideal for testing rugged outdoor gear, waterproof layers and serious walking boots over a full day in classic Dark Peak conditions.
On clear days you’re rewarded with dramatic views and features like Kinder Downfall, but this walk is best suited to experienced walkers prepared for changeable weather and long hours on the trail.
Enjoying the Peak District on Foot
From gentle riverside walks to challenging moorland hikes, the Peak District offers some of the most diverse walking terrain in the UK. With its mix of historic villages, wild landscapes and breathtaking viewpoints, it’s easy to see why the area remains one of Britain’s favourite destinations for walkers.
Before heading out, always check the weather, carry a map and wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear. Conditions on the moors can change quickly, particularly on higher routes like Kinder Scout.