Last reviewed and updated: March 2026
The Peak District is one of the best places in England for walking. It is easy to reach, packed with beautiful scenery, and has routes for everyone from complete beginners to seasoned hillwalkers.
If you are looking for the best walks in the Peak District, you will quickly discover that the park offers far more than just rolling hills. There are dramatic ridges, quiet moorland, limestone valleys, and classic viewpoints that have become favourites for hikers across the UK.
Below are some of the most rewarding walks in the Peak District, whether you want an easy countryside walk or a full day out on the hills.
Mam Tor Circular Walk
Mam Tor is one of the most famous walks in the Peak District, and for good reason. The route offers fantastic views across the Hope Valley and along the Great Ridge.
The path is clear and relatively short, making it popular with beginners and families. Despite its accessibility, the views from the summit feel genuinely impressive.
You can read the full route guide here: Mam Tor Circular Walk Guide (Route, Map & Tips)
Kinder Scout Walk from Edale
Kinder Scout is the highest point in the Peak District and one of the most iconic hikes in the area.
The route from Edale takes you onto the plateau where you will find dramatic edges, wide open moorland, and sweeping views across the surrounding hills.
This walk is longer than many others in the area, but it rewards the effort with some of the most impressive scenery in the park.
You can read the full route guide here: Kinder Scout Walk from Edale (Route, Map & Tips)
Stanage Edge Walk
Stanage Edge is one of the most recognisable landscapes in the Peak District. The long gritstone ridge offers huge views across the Dark Peak and has a wild, exposed feel.
The walk along the edge is fairly straightforward, but the setting makes it feel far more dramatic than the difficulty suggests.
It is especially popular at sunrise and sunset when the light across the moors can be spectacular.
You can read the full route guide here: Stanage Edge Walk Guide (Route, Map & Tips)
Padley Gorge Walk
Padley Gorge is one of the most atmospheric woodland walks in the Peak District.
The trail follows a stream through ancient woodland, passing mossy rocks, small waterfalls, and twisting trees. It feels completely different from the open moorland walks nearby.
This is a great option if you want a shorter walk that still feels memorable.
You can read the full route guide here: Padley Gorge Walk Guide (Route, Map & Tips)
Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill
Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill form one of the most distinctive landscapes in the Peak District.
Often called the “Dragon’s Back”, this route follows narrow ridges between steep grassy slopes. The terrain gives the walk a surprisingly adventurous feel despite its relatively short distance.
It is one of the most unusual walks in the park and well worth adding to your list.
You can read the full route guide here: Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill Walk Guide (Route, Map & Tips)
Axe Edge Moor
Axe Edge Moor is a quieter walk compared to some of the more famous Peak District routes.
The landscape here is wide, open, and often windswept. It is a good place to experience the wild moorland character of the Dark Peak without the crowds you might find on Mam Tor or Kinder Scout.
On clear days, the views stretch for miles across the surrounding hills.
You can read the full route guide here: Axe Edge Moor Walk Guide (Route, Map & Tips)
Derwent Valley Reservoir Walks
The Derwent Valley reservoirs offer some of the most scenic waterside walking in the Peak District.
The paths around Derwent, Howden, and Ladybower Reservoir provide beautiful views across the water with surrounding hills rising in the distance. The area is especially popular in autumn when the woodland colours change.
These routes are ideal for relaxed walks that still deliver impressive scenery.
Why the Peak District is great for hiking
One of the best things about the Peak District is how varied it is.
The Dark Peak offers dramatic moorland, gritstone edges, and wide landscapes that feel rugged and wild. The White Peak, by contrast, has softer limestone valleys, pretty villages, and peaceful riverside walks.
Because of this variety, you can hike in the Peak District for years and still discover new favourite routes.
What to bring for Peak District walks
Even on relatively short walks, it is worth packing properly.
The weather in the Peaks can change quickly, especially on exposed ridges and moorland routes. A waterproof jacket, warm layer, food, and water can make a huge difference if conditions turn.
Good footwear is also important. Some paths can become muddy or slippery after rain, which is fairly common in this part of the country.
For gear advice, see:
What to Pack for a Day Hike in the UK (Beginner Guide)
Best Waterproof Walking Jackets for UK Countryside Walks (2026)
Best Walking Boots for UK Trails (2026)
Day Hiking Essentials for UK Countryside Walks: Complete Gear List (2026)
Final thoughts
The best walks in the Peak District combine dramatic landscapes with easy access, which is one of the reasons the park is so popular with hikers.
Whether you are climbing Mam Tor, exploring the Kinder Scout plateau, or wandering through the woodland at Padley Gorge, the Peak District offers some of the most rewarding walks in England.
If you enjoy exploring the outdoors, this national park will keep you busy for a long time.
