Experience the wild drama and unique character of the Dark Peak with a handpicked collection of 35 circular day walks and 5 classic long-distance routes, revealing the heart of one of Britain’s most atmospheric and varied upland landscapes. Explore brooding moorlands, iconic gritstone edges, and the unforgettable valleys of the Peak District’s northern reaches, including Kinder Scout, Bleaklow, Black Hill, and the Roaches.

Ideal for both newcomers and seasoned walkers, this definitive Cicerone guidebook presents inspiring routes for every ability, from gentle introductions to the area’s distinctive scenery to more demanding outings across remote wilderness. Whether you’re seeking peaceful rambles or the challenge of a full day on the high moors, these routes can be tailored to your pace and ambition.

• Choose from 35 circular day walks and 5 longer routes, with walks throughout the Dark Peak easily accessible from Hathersage, Castleton, Glossop, and Sheffield.
• Day walks range from 7–22 km (4–14 miles), each taking 3–7 hours, while long-distance routes (including the Kinder Scout skyline, Edale horseshoe, and Gritstone Edges) span 25–45 km (15–28 miles) and take 8–13 hours.
• Enjoy year-round walking through the dramatic gritstone landscapes, high moorland, steep ascents, and sweeping vistas of the Dark Peak, with options to cut some routes short for a gentler outing.
• Every hand-picked Dark Peak walk features a clear route summary, start and finish locations, 1:50,000 OS map extracts (1:100,000 for longer routes), GPX downloads, parking and public transport details, estimated walking times, and suggestions for local pubs, cafés, and tea rooms.
• Gain insights into the unique geology, history, plantlife, and wildlife of the Dark Peak, with background information provided for each walk.
• Most walks are circular, starting from recognised car parks across the Dark Peak, with public transport options where relevant to create linear or adapted routes through this distinctive upland landscape.
• The pocket-sized guidebook is packed with practical advice on terrain, navigation (including tips for moorland and winter conditions), and facilities specific to the Dark Peak, helping you plan and explore with confidence.
• Includes an overview map and route summary table to help you select the perfect Dark Peak walk for your day out.

Set out to discover the brooding moors, sweeping edges, and ever-changing moods of the Dark Peak at your own pace, in every season. With this trusted Cicerone guidebook, experience the very best walking this remarkable region has to offer.

Dark Peak Walks – Quick Facts

Location: Dark Peak, Peak District National Park
Number of routes: 35 circular day walks plus 5 longer routes
Distance: Day walks 7–22 km (4–14 miles); long routes 25–45 km (15–28 miles)
Duration: 3–7 hours per day walk; 8–13 hours for long routes
Areas covered: Kinder Scout, Bleaklow, Black Hill, The Roaches, eastern and western gritstone edges
Route type: Mainly circular, with some linear options and opportunities to adapt routes using public transport
Difficulty: Suitable for all abilities, from gentle introductions to challenging moorland adventures
Terrain: Gritstone edges, high moorland, peat bogs, steep climbs, open wilderness, and sweeping vistas
Navigation: 1:50,000 OS map extracts for day walks, 1:100,000 for long routes, with detailed route descriptions and GPX downloads
Best season: Suitable for walking year-round; landscape and conditions can change rapidly
Highlights: Dramatic moorland scenery, panoramic views, varied wildlife and plantlife, local geology, and a sense of wild remoteness
Facilities: Notes on refreshments, parking, public transport, and local facilities provided for each walk

Author Highlight

"The afternoon was drawing to a close and my walk that day had been one of the most enjoyable that winter. I hadn’t seen a soul, it being a weekday, and my walk had taken me off the footpath and across a succession of moors, rising up to Bleaklow Stones via a series of spot heights that formed a natural ascent. As I turned to head towards Round Hill I had the most amazing sense of the ocean. I stopped and breathed in the air, taking huge draughts into my lungs. I could smell and taste sea salt on the wind, fresh, tangy and exhilarating. It is a moment I relive, and it is just one of many memories that I have of the Dark Peak.” 

- Paul Besley, author of Dark Peak Walks

Seasons

The area can be enjoyed in all seasons, although extra care (and kit) may be required in winter conditions.

Centres

Hathersage, Grindleford, Langsett, Marsden, Dove Stones, Edale, Upper Derwent Valley, Castleton, Greenfield, Chatsworth, Sheffield, Hayfield, Crowden, Hope, Dunford Bridge

Difficulty

Walking in the Dark Peak requires good navigational skills, especially in winter, and a good level of hillcraft. Having the correct equipment and clothing and knowing how to use it is paramount when venturing out onto the high moors.

Must See

Kinder Scout, the highest point in the Peak District; Bleaklow, the second highest; Howden and Derwent Edges; Black Hill and the Wessenden Moors; the gritstone edges of Derwent, Bamford, Stanage, Burbage, Froggatt, Curbar, Birchen, Gardoms and the Roaches; the Eastern Moors; the Goyt Valley, Shutlingsloe and Wildboarclough

December 2021

2021 reprint route updates

September 2019

Route update

Free Royal Mail 48 postage on UK orders. European postage is £3.50 per item. Worldwide postage is £5.50 per item. If you're not happy with your purchase for any reason, we'll give you a full refund.