The Peak District walk with a pretty village, amazing views and a cosy pub at the end
A landscape of majestic hills, green valleys and magical waterfalls, the Peak District is a wonderful place to visit throughout the year. But on a crisp autumn day it’s particularly special, especially when the leaves begin to change.
From challenging treks to relaxed rambles, this National Park has something for everyone. It also happens to be handily close to Manchester and is accessible via car or by train, making it ideal for a day out.
Edale is a popular starting point for walkers arriving from Manchester and it’s easy to see why: the Hope Valley Line takes you directly from Manchester Piccadilly, transporting you into the heart of the National Park in less than an hour. You can embark on various walks from Edale, including Kinder Scout, one of the most difficult hikes you can attempt in the area.
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For those who don’t quite fancy a scramble up Kinder Scout but still want a good hike, we’ve got the perfect walk for you. Along the way you’ll experience gorgeous hilltop views, a gorge walk, one of the Peak District’s prettiest villages and a cosy pub at the end.
Starting from the Penny Pot café in Edale, next to the train station (and opposite the car park) turn right on Mary’s Lane and then right again on Edale Road, following it a short way before taking the first left down a country lane. Follow this lane for a short while before taking the footpath to the left which leads you to the foot of Mam Tor - be sure to look back along the way to admire the view.
Then a series of stone steps takes you up to the summit of Mam Tor, one of the Peak District’s best known hills. From the top you’re rewarded with amazing views of Edale on one side, and then the Hope Valley on the other. Should you prefer a shorter walk, you can continue along the Mam Tor ridge path until you get to Hollins Cross, where you can descend back into Edale.
But climb back down the stone steps from Mam Tor and walk south through the field, crossing the road when you arrive at it. From here head east through the fields and along the stone wall until you reach Winnats Pass, a spectacular limestone gorge.
After taking some time to admire the rock formations, follow the road until you reach the entrance to Speedwell Cavern, from here pick up the footpath through the field which then leads you into the village. It’s dotted with cosy cafes and pubs, so a perfect stop off for lunch.
Pick up Hollowford Road north out of Castleton, taking the public footpath to the left between the trees. Follow this as it leads you through fields, to the base of the Great Ridge. A steep ascent will take you up to Hollins Cross on the Great Ridge.
From here descend back down into Edale, passing through farms and fields along the way. Round your walk off with a stop at the Rambler Inn, an appropriately named pub where muddy boots are welcome. If the sun’s still out you can enjoy the extensive beer garden, or venture inside the pub's cosy rooms for a well-deserved bite to eat.
Pay and display parking is available at Edale Car Park - Water Meadows, Hope Rd, Edale, Hope Valley S33 7ZQ