Muddy Stilettos


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-kinder-scout-via-grindsbrook-clough">1/ Kinder Scout via Grindsbrook Clough</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2023/06/Kinder-Scout-NT-by-Andrew-Butler.jpg" alt="The view from Kinder Scout" class="wp-image-4771" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image / NT Images by Andrew Butler</figcaption></figure>



<p>A Peak District classic, a hike up Kinder Scout is a must-do if you find yourself anywhere near the beautiful Hope Valley. There are lots of different routes up, so if it’s busy you can switch routes for a quieter one but, if you’re reasonably fit  and up for a bit of a scramble (go on, you can do it) I think&nbsp;<a href="https://peakdistrictkids.co.uk/kinder-scout-from-edale/">the route up Grindsbrook Clough</a> is one of the best.</p>



<p>There are ways to make it shorter, but this circular is about 12.5k and starts at The Old Nag’s Head from where you head over the bridge and onto a flagstone path. Cross another small wooden bridge before the path starts to climb alongside Grindsbrook Clough. Kids will love darting back and forth across the brook and it’s heaven to cool off in on a hot day. After a steep scramble at the top you pick up the flagstone path passing some cool rock formations like Noe Stool on the way. The descent is down Jacob’s Lader and back via Upper Booth into Edale on the Pennine Way.</p>



<p><strong>Pub pitstop: </strong><a href="https://www.the-old-nags-head.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Old Nag’s Head</a>, Edale</p>



<p>A low-ceilinged, stone-built, traditional country inn, this pub is perfectly positioned (it marks the official start of The Pennine Way) for your post-walk pitstop. With a decent-sized beer garden for summer tipples and cosy tap bar with open fire for winter warm-ups, it also has a big menu of pub classics and kid-friendly meals to help you refuel.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-castleton-mam-tor-and-the-great-ridge-walk">2/ Castleton, Mam Tor and The Great Ridge Walk</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2023/06/Mam-Tor-NT-by-Trevor-Ray-HArt.jpg" alt="walking on top of Mam Tor, Peak District Derbyshire" class="wp-image-4772" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image / NT Images by Trevor Ray-Hart</figcaption></figure>



<p>Another one of the classics, <a href="https://www.visitpeakdistrict.com/trails/castleton-mam-tor-the-great-ridge-walk">this 10k wal</a>k includes a stroll along the ridge at Mam Tor from where you’ll be rewarded with one of the most dramatic views in the Peak District. To the north you can see across the beautiful Edale Valley to Kinder Scout and the Derwent Moors, face east and you’ll be greeted with far-reaching views beyond Castleton. With such a vast vista, it gets popular. Early riser? Set off before dawn and watch the sun rise from the top of Mam Tor – it’s one of the best sunrise spots in the country.</p>



<p><strong>Pub pitstop: </strong><a href="https://www.thegeorgecastleton.co.uk/">The George</a>, Castleton</p>



<p>A proper traditional English pub with a beer garden that’s perfect for post-hike pizzas and pints. With wow views from the rear garden overlooking Mam Tor and a fantastic view of Peveril Castle from the front patio, there’s also a menu of classic pub grub – from hot roast pork sandwiches to fish and chips. Having too much fun to cut the night short? Stay over in one of the three bedrooms, all sleeping two adults. Compact, as you’d expect in an old English pub, but they’ve still managed to squeeze deliciously comfortable super kingsize beds into each one. Post-walk slumber guaranteed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-the-roaches-and-lud-s-church-upper-hulme">3/ The Roaches and Lud’s Church, Upper Hulme</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2023/06/The-Roaches-lens_time.jpg" alt="Two walkers on rocks at The Roaches in the Peak District" class="wp-image-4817" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image / by Tom Dobinson <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lens_time/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">@lens_time</a></figcaption></figure>



<p>Oh yes. Dramatic rocks, big views and a shady gorge – <a href="https://mattwalkwild.com/the-roaches-and-luds-church-circular-walk/">this</a> is one of my absolute favourite Peak District walks. It’s a not-too-strenuous 16k that traverses the dramatic spine of the rocky Roaches ridge, looks down on fabulous views of Tittesworth Reservoir and across to Wales before plunging down into the mystical mossy gorge of Lud’s Church (Robin Hood and Friar Tuck are said to have hidden here while on the run from the authorities). The walk then loops back out to the ridge to complete a satisfying circular.</p>



<p>With such dramatic scenery, kids will love it here &#8211; even in the depths of winter. At the start of the walk near Hen Cloud there’s a big boulder field packed with gritstone boulders that are catnip to little climbers. The ridge is the spot for dramatic photos and then the plunge into the 18m-deep chasm keeps things really interesting (and is a great spot to cool off if you’re hiking in summer). Ten miles too long? I hear you. It’s easy to cut out the odd section (Hen Cloud or Lud’s Church being the obvious ones) to keep it short.</p>



<p>Go early if you can as parking, <a href="https://www.doogal.co.uk/ShowMap?postcode=ST13%208TY">along the road near Hen Cloud</a> can get busy.</p>



<p><strong>Pitstop: </strong><a href="https://www.3shoesinn.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Three Horseshoes, Leek</a></p>



<p>Worked up an appetite? Good, the roast carvery is legendary here. Generous portions designed for hikers’ appetites, melt-in-the-mouth, locally-sourced meat and fabulous range of perfectly-cooked veg, I’ve never found anywhere to top it. Even if you’re not here for the carvery, the rest of the menu is equally tempting and the restaurant is swish and contemporary with fabulous views (there’s a reason it’s so popular for weddings – what a backdrop for photos). If you’re up for staying over there are boutique-style bedrooms (some with private cedar hot tub) and a stunning spa.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-monsal-head-waterfall-walk">4/ Monsal Head waterfall walk</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2023/06/Monsal-Trail.jpg" alt="The Monsal Trail, Peak District" class="wp-image-4775" /></figure>



<p>Taking the tribe or meeting up with a few families? <a href="https://explore.osmaps.com/route/6650315/monsal-head-circular-walk?lat=53.240753&amp;lon=-1.733486&amp;zoom=15.8420&amp;style=Standard&amp;type=2d">This is a lovely walk</a> to do en masse. With jaw-dropping views, a waterfall (well weir actually) and lovely flat grassy spots on the riverbanks for family picnics, it’s one to take your time over.</p>



<p>Park at Monsal Head car park and start your walk with wow views down to the viaduct and the valley at the viewpoint next to the hotel. Follow the steep footpath down the hill signposted ‘Ashford Monsal Dale’ towards the weir. Cross the footbridge over the River Wye and towards the Headstone Viaduct and back up the hill. Got tiny tots? It’s carriers and backpacks only; definitely not suitable for pushchairs. This one is short but steep, so while it’s only 2.4k, it’s worth taking your time over.</p>



<p><strong>Pitstop:</strong> <a href="http://Hobbs Cafe | Monsal Head, Bakewell, Peak District (hobbscafemonsalhead.co.uk)">Hobbs Café</a>, Monsal Head</p>



<p>With some of the very best views in the whole Peak District, this little gtem of a café is ideal for post-walk tea and cake. Here on a chilly, wet day? No fear, the cute, cosy interior is just as lovely.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-stanage-edge-epic">5/ Stanage Edge epic</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2023/06/Stanage-Edge-by-James-Ashwood-1.jpg" alt="Stanage Edge in summer, Peak District" class="wp-image-4776" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image/ by James Ashwood</figcaption></figure>



<p><a href="https://www.visitpeakdistrict.com/trails/hathersage-to-stanage-edge-walk">This circular walk</a> of about 14k starts in the village of Hathersage and scales the stunning gritstone heights of Stanage Edge.&nbsp; The views along the Hope Valley from the ridge are spectacular (think windswept Keira Kighly standing on top of the rocks in Pride and&nbsp; Prejudice).&nbsp; You’ll then descend via Carhead Rocks along pretty country lanes back into the village.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Pitstop: </strong><a href="https://thegeorgehathersage.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The George</a>, Hathersage</p>



<p>Once frequented by Charlotte Brontë when she was writing Jane Eyre, this traditional English pub is a great post-walk pitstop. With wood-fired pizzas, steaks and burgers, the family-friendly menu is classic pub food with a modern twist. Unfortunately it suffered when the village flooded late last year so had to close for a revamp. Happily, it&#8217;s even better now it&#8217;s re-opened. If it&#8217;s dog-friendly digs you&#8217;re after, head up the road to new hotel <a href="https://nottsderbyshire.muddystilettos.co.uk/travel/uk/hotels-inns/review-bike-boot-peak-district-derbyshire/">Bike &amp; Boot</a> is just up the road has a great little bar and all-day restaurant along with brilliantly pooch-friendly facilities and funky bedrooms.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-middleton-top-to-middleton-moor">6/ Middleton Top to Middleton Moor</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2023/06/Middleton-Top-731x1024.jpg" alt="The view from Middleton Top Derbyshire" class="wp-image-4777" /></figure>



<p><a href="https://www.derbyshire.gov.uk/site-elements/documents/pdf/leisure/countryside/access/walking/four-circuit-walks-from-middleton-top.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">This is a lovely one</a> if you’ve got little legs in tow or want to combine a walk with nearby attractions like Carsington Water or The Heights of Abraham. It’s also a fabulous way to avoid the crowds as it tends to stay a little bit quieter (we had it mostly to ourselves on the last hot bank holiday Monday). It’s an easy 2.5k that starts from the High Peak Trail and Middleton Top visitor centre and has easy-to-reach Big (yep, that’s a capital B you see) views.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Head out from the back of the Visitor Centre and follow the Middleton Moor signpost. Behind you you’ll get views across to Derby, to the north and east, it’s spectacular rolling fields dropping down towards Cromford and Matlock Bath. Download a map and walk directions here. If you’d rather walk while the littlies keep up on wheels, just take an out and back hike along the High Peak cycle trail instead (also starts from the visitor centre).</p>



<p><strong>Pitstop:</strong> <a href="https://thewhitehartmoorwoodmoor.co.uk/fork-and-furrow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Fork &amp; Furrow</a> at the White Hart Inn</p>



<p>Tipples on the terrace and lovely views of the Derbyshire countryside are worth a short detour for and The White Hart Inn is only a seven-mile drive away through pretty Peak lanes. The newly renovated Fork &amp; Furrow restaurant is all oak, exposed bulbs and foliage and opens Wed-Sun dishing up local, sustainable, contemporary British cuisine. There are 17 swish suites if you fancy booking an overnighter too.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-the-chatsworth-estate">7/ The Chatsworth Estate</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2023/07/Chatsworth-summer.jpg" alt="chatsworth in summer" class="wp-image-5122" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image / Chatsworth House Trust</figcaption></figure>



<p>Ah, lovely Chatsworth. If you’ve got the time, it’s a must-visit for any Peak District trip. It makes a fabulous spot for a walk too and the trails in the park and Stand Wood are open throughout the year.</p>



<p><a href="https://devonshirehotels.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Walk-3.pdf">This circular walk</a> is an easy 4k (well, just over) and starts in the car park at Baslow. It heads towards Eastmoor before looping back through Stand Wood via the park, so that you can drink in those grand, sweeping views of Chatsworth House. Fancy something a bit longer? Extend the walk around the lakes and waterfalls that supply the cascade in the garden at Chatsworth.</p>



<p><strong>Pitstop: </strong><a href="https://devonshirehotels.co.uk/cavendish-hotel-baslow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Cavendish Hotel</a>, Baslow</p>



<p>With a gorgeous garden room restaurant and drinks terrace, a meal or tipple at The Cavendish is a complete treat to polish off a walk with. There are lovely views across Chatsworth Park and the dining room, bar and lounge have recently had a swish refurb with decadent design nods to Chatsworth itself. The chef is big on locally-sourced produce and there’s also an amazing afternoon tea if you’re after a real treat.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-8-dovedale">8/ Dovedale</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2023/06/Dovedale-NT-by-John-Millar.jpg" alt="Thorpe Cloud and the stepping stones at Dovedale Peak District" class="wp-image-4780" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image / NT Images by John Millar</figcaption></figure>



<p>Another classic, the beautifu<a href="https://www.10adventures.com/hikes/peak-district-national-park/dovedale-circular/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">l Dovedale Walk</a> can get seriously busy so be sure to start early if you’re coming in peak holidays or save it for an out of season escape. It starts near the pretty village of Ilam and takes you across the famous stepping stones (pictured), along the River Dove past Lover’s Leap to Milldale. The full circular route is 11.5k and the return route is a bit tougher as you summit Bailey Hill.</p>



<p><strong>Pitstop: </strong><a href="https://www.wildhive.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wildhive Callow Hall</a>, Ashbourne</p>



<p>A five-minute drive away, near the start of the Tissington Trail, it’s well worth popping into the lovely garden room restaurant at Callow Hall. The hotel is interior design heaven and the garden room is a gorgeous spot to chill &#8211; light, airy, with beautiful countryside views. Looking to wind down gently? Check out the amazing wellbeing workshops &#8211; from Barre to Sound Therapy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-9-padley-gorge">9/ Padley Gorge</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2023/06/PAdley-Gorge-NT-by-David-Goacher.jpg" alt="Padley Gorge waterfall Peak District" class="wp-image-4781" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image / NT Images by David Goacher</figcaption></figure>



<p>Pretty Padley Gorge meanders through photogenic ancient woodland past tumbling waterfalls and gently flowing streams. This walk is an easy 7k route that starts from Grindleford station, and passes through shady woodland before opening out onto wild moorland with breathtaking views. After Millstone Edge you’ll reach Surprise View, and some of the best views in the Hope Valley, before returning to the start point.</p>



<p><strong>Pitstop:</strong> T<a href="https://nottsderbyshire.muddystilettos.co.uk/little-black-book/directory/maynard-grindleford-derbyshire/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">he Maynard</a>, Grindleford</p>



<p>Possibly one of the most perfect post-hike pitstops in the Peak District, The Maynard has jaw-dropping views. It&#8217;s also garnering a fabulous reputation for food. It’s only a stone’s throw from Grindleford train station so is an easy place to stumble to on finishing your walk. But I warn you, you probably won’t want to leave. Lucky then that they have 19 beautiful boutique rooms (most of which make the most of<em> that</em> view).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-10-dragon-s-back-and-chrome-hill">10/ Dragon’s Back and Chrome Hill</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2023/06/Dragons-Back-by-benjamin-sharpe-unsplash-768x1024.jpg" alt="Dragon's Back and Chrome Hill, Peak District" class="wp-image-4782" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image / by Benjamin Sharpe</figcaption></figure>



<p>The kids will love this one – this rocky limestone ridge really does look like a dragon’s back or the spine of a stegosaurus. This 8.5k walk starts and ends at Earl Sterndale, taking in Parkhouse Hill, Chrome Hill and the hamlet of Hollinsclough. It’s reasonably easy apart from the odd steep climb and descent. The rocky ridge is the obvious highlight – it really feels as if you’re traversing the back of a sleeping dragon as the gentle folds of the valley ripple below.</p>



<p><strong>Pitstop: </strong><a href="https://www.highpeakbookstore.co.uk/cafe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">High Peak Bookstore and Café</a>, near Buxton</p>



<p>Ok, so it’s not a pub (but it does serve Peak Ales and Ashover cider), but you can’t miss a visit to this much-loved bookshop and café just a few minutes away on the main A515 road to Buxton. It’s a super-chilled spot to re-group and dishes up fabulous rainbow-bright salads and impressive cakes. The lovely bookshop is worth losing an hour to too.</p>


10 leg-stretching Peak District pub walks

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