If you’re looking for a list of easy walks in the Peak District, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, I share 12 of the easier Peak District walking routes as well as all the relevant info you’ll need to help plan your visit.
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Top 12 Easy Walks in the Peak District
1. Stanage Edge Circular Walk
Starting Point: The Dale Parking
I’m kicking off the list with one of my favourite easy walks in the Peak District. This one is perfect if you want to experience one of the Peak District’s best viewpoints but without a gruelling hike.
Stanage Edge is a famous location in the national park. Thanks to its appearance in the BBC adaptation of Pride & Prejudice, fans visit from far and wide to have a photo on what’s known as the ‘Keira Knightley Rock’.
This circular walk of Stanage Edge doesn’t take you to that particular viewpoint; however, the views are equally impressive. It involves a short climb onto the ridge, but it’s relatively flat from that point onwards.
If you have the time/energy, you could also visit Robin Hood’s Cave.
Stanage Edge Walking Route Map
2. Dovestone Reservoir Circular Walk
Starting Point: Dovestone Car Park
Those looking for a family-friendly walking route in the Peak District should consider this circular walk of Dovestone Reservoir. It’s less popular than other beauty spots in the Peak District, but the views are out of this world.
This walking trail is suitable for anyone of a reasonable fitness level. It is paved, has even terrain, and has minimal incline. You can easily push a pushchair around, and it’s suitable for cycling.
There are plenty of opportunities for those looking to up the intensity of their walk. There are the two neighbouring reservoirs (Greenfield and Yeoman Hey), as well as the adventurous Trinnacle Trail.
Dovestone Reservoir Walking Route Map
3. Monsal Trail
The Monsal Trail is one of the most popular easy walking routes in the Peak District. A flat, accessible trail between Chee Dale and Bakewell, it’s suitable for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, prams and wheelchairs.
What’s interesting about this route is that it used to be a railway line. You can walk through the old tunnels and over a jaw-dropping Headstone Viaduct. The route also traverses some of the Peak District’s most scenic limestone valleys.
The Monsal Trail is 8.5 miles long from end to end, but you can make your walk as long or as short as you please.
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4. Monsal Head Circular Route
Starting Point: Monsal Head Car Park
A slight detour off the Monsal Trail is Monsal Head – one of the best and most accessible viewpoints in the Peak District. From here, you can enjoy jaw-dropping views over the Monsal Valley.
You can drive to Monsal Head and enjoy the views without having to walk anywhere, but this circular walking route is well worth a try. It does involve a fairly steep ascent and descent into the valley, but it’s only short. I’d say that most people could do it.
Highlights of this easy Peak District walk include the River Wye, a waterfall, and walking beneath the enormous Headstone Viaduct. There are also plenty of areas by the river that are ideal for a picnic.
Monsal Head Walking Route Map
5. Mam Tor
Starting Point: Mam Tor Car Park
Mam Tor is one of the highest and most famous peaks in the Peak District. This out-and-back walking route of Mam Tor is, in fact, a fairly easy walk. It’s a bit of a leg burner to get to the top, but worth it for what awaits at the summit.
It’s the spectacular panoramic views from Mam Tor that entice walkers of all ages and capabilities to tackle the climb. On a clear day, you can see for mile upon miles – the lush English countryside at its very best. The unobstructed view also makes this a prime sunrise and sunset spot.
To tackle this easy Peak District walk, you’ll want to park on Mam Tor Road, where the trailhead begins. As I say, it is quite an incline to get to the top, but the path is well-maintained and easy to follow. Most will get to the top in under 30 minutes.
Mam Tor Walking Route Map
6. Ladybower Reservoir
Starting Point: Ashopton Viaduct
Another reservoir walk that’s proven to be a family favourite is Ladybower Reservoir. In fact, the popular circular walk is often considered one of the top things to do when visiting the Peak District.
The classic waterside route takes you through some flat woodland paths and over the Derwent Dam and allows stunning views over the reservoir. It’s well-paved throughout, so suitable for cyclists, prams, and wheelchairs.
If you prefer a more challenging hike, I recommend this circular walk of Ladybower Reservoir via Derwent Edge.
Ladybower Reservoir Walking Route Map
7. B29′ Overexposed’ Crash Site Walk
Starting Point: Snake Pass Summit
The B29′ Overexposed’ Crash Site walk is one of the most unusual hikes in the Peak District. In 1948, a USAF plane crashed in the moors, k!lling all 13 crew members. Today the wreckage remains as part of a memorial site which you can walk to.
I class this walking route as one of the easier walks in the Peak District. The trail is well-trodden, paved, and easy to follow, and there isn’t much of an incline to worry about either.
B29′ Overexposed’ Crash Walking Route Map
8. Cave Dale
Starting Point: Castleton Village
Cave Dale is an AMAZING easy walk in the Peak District! It has incredible views and that adventurous feel, but you don’t need to walk very far to experience it.
The trailhead starts directly in Castleton, one of the prettiest Peak District villages, and opens into a dramatic limestone valley.
The trail is suitable for all the family. It allows you to explore the entire length of the dale, taking in views of Peveril Castle and the craggy limestone cliffs. And ends in the village, where you can stop for coffee & cake or a beer.
Cave Dale Walking Route Map
9. Bakewell Village Walk
Walking around Bakewell was one of the highlights of our time in the Peak District. It may not be your typical countryside Peak District walk, but it deserves a spot on this list nonetheless.
There are many things to see and do in Bakewell. The traditional desserts are a must and a bit of shopping in the charming local shops. Afterwards, walk along the scenic River Wye and visit the Love Lock Bridge.
You can also visit the All Saints Church in Bakewell. The medieval structure overlooks the town and is one of England’s most beautiful parish churches.
10. Thors Cave
Starting Point: Wetton Car Park
A walk to Thors Cave is an absolute must when visiting the Peak District. This iconic cave sits 80 metres off the ground and overlooks astonishing views of the Manifold Valley.
Legend has it that the cave is connected to ‘Thor’, the Norse god of thunder. Others claim that ‘Thor’ relates to ‘Tor,’ which means hill.
Either way, Thors Cave is well worth a visit, and this easy walk from Wetton is a firm favourite. It’s a flat and manageable trail, but take care inside the cave because it can be slippery and dangerous.
Thors Cave Walking Route Map
11. Manifold Way
Another way to access Thors Cave is via the Manifold Way. This 8-mile accessible trail is ideal for cyclists, horse riders, wheelchairs, and prams.
The route passes through stunning countryside, limestone hills, lush woodland and wildflower meadows. It was probably one of the most diverse trails on this list.
As a heads up, this route to Thors Cave involves a fairly strenuous hike up some steps.
12. Wolfscote Dale
Starting Point: Beresford Lane
Last on this list of easy Peak District walks is Wolfscote Dale. This gorgeous trail snakes alongside the River Dove and was one of the most peaceful routes I encountered during my time here.
The trail is also very family-friendly, with a manageable gravel path that’s flat and well-maintained. The out-and-back route encounters epic limestone gorges, cool natural caves, and lush countryside.
Wolfscote Dale Walking Route Map
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My Top Tips for Easy Walks in the Peak District
Are dogs allowed on the trails? All of these easy Peak District walks are suitable for dogs.
Facilities on the trails: You won’t find facilities on the trails unless you pass through a village. Take enough food and water for your hike, and take all your rubbish home.
Weather: The weather in the Peak District can change quickly and dramatically. You’ll want to come prepared for all of the seasons.
Maps: You’ll want a map handy when hiking in the Peak District. We use All Trails or you can buy a Peak District OS Map from Amazon.
Hiking Essentials: Don’t leave home without the hiking essentials. These include hiking footwear, a waterproof jacket, a power bank, a water bottle, hiking snacks, and a head torch.
Enjoy these Easy Peak District Walks!
I hope you have as much fun as we did on these easy walking routes in the Peak District. If you’re visiting the area soon, you might find our other Peak District articles helpful.
Any questions, feel free to reach out! Otherwise, happy and safe hiking!
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