Just a stone’s throw from Sheffield, the Peak District is a walker’s paradise — with its sweeping landscapes, rugged edges, and rolling hills. As the UK’s first national park, the area is packed with scenic routes, from gentle strolls to challenging treks. Whether you’re seeking dramatic views, historical landmarks, or a peaceful escape into nature, the Peak District has something to offer. If you’re planning a walking weekend, we’ve rounded up three of the best hikes in the Peak District to add to your itinerary — all easily accessible from your cosy Snug House base in Sheffield.
1. Mam Tor and Cave Dale
Distance: 10km
Difficulty: Moderate
Start Point: Mam Tor National Trust Car Park
One of the Peak District’s most iconic walks, the Mam Tor and Cave Dale route blends dramatic ridgelines with historic scenery. Mam Tor — meaning ‘Mother Hill’ — offers spectacular views across the Hope Valley and Edale. The route begins with a short but steep climb to the summit, where you’ll find the remnants of an Iron Age hill fort and a trig point marking the peak. The Great Ridge stretches out in front of you, offering panoramic views that are especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
From Hollins Cross, the path descends into Castleton, a charming village with a rich history. Here, you can explore Peveril Castle — one of England’s earliest Norman fortresses — or book a tour of Peak Cavern, home to the largest cave entrance in the British Isles. The second half of the walk takes you through Cave Dale, a narrow limestone gorge that feels like something straight out of a fantasy film. The steep cliffs and hidden caves make this one of the most atmospheric spots in the Peaks.
This hike offers the perfect combination of breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and a little touch of adventure — making it a must for any visitor to the area.
2. Stanage and Bamford Edge Circuit
Distance: 12km
Difficulty: Moderate
Start Point: Car park near Bamford
For breathtaking views over the Dark Peak, the Stanage and Bamford Edge Circuit is a must. This circular hike follows the gritstone escarpment of Stanage Edge — the longest edge in the Peak District — before looping back via Bamford Edge, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas of Ladybower Reservoir.
Stanage Edge is not only a popular hiking spot but also a legendary climbing destination, with its weathered rock faces drawing climbers from around the world. Along the way, you’ll pass abandoned millstones — relics from the Peak District’s industrial past — and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a peregrine falcon soaring overhead.
The route continues to Bamford Edge, where the landscape softens into heather moorland. The view from here is one of the finest in the Peaks, looking out over Ladybower Reservoir, Win Hill, and the surrounding valleys. This hike perfectly captures the rugged beauty of the Dark Peak, making it a favourite for photographers and outdoor lovers alike.
3. Kinder Scout Plateau Circuit
Distance: 31km
Difficulty: Challenging
Start Point: Edale Train Station
If you’re up for an adventure, the Kinder Scout Plateau Circuit is a Peak District classic. At 636 metres, Kinder Scout is the highest point in the national park — a vast plateau of heather moorland, gritstone edges, and peat bogs. But it’s not just the landscape that makes Kinder Scout special — it’s the history. The 1932 Mass Trespass on Kinder Scout played a pivotal role in the fight for public access to the countryside, helping pave the way for the creation of national parks and the Right to Roam laws.
The walk begins in Edale, following the Pennine Way up Jacob’s Ladder — a steep stone path that winds its way onto the plateau. The climb is well worth it for the views alone, with the rolling hills of the White Peak unfolding behind you. Once on the plateau, the landscape becomes wilder and more remote, with strange rock formations like Pym Chair and Edale Rocks dotted along the way. The highlight of the circuit is Kinder Downfall, a dramatic waterfall that tumbles 30 metres down the cliffs — and even blows back on itself in high winds.
Navigating the plateau can be tricky, especially in poor weather, so it’s essential to come prepared. But for those who take on the challenge, the Kinder Scout Plateau Circuit offers one of the most rewarding and unforgettable hikes in the Peak District.
Rest Your Feet at Snug House
After a day exploring the Peak District’s incredible landscapes, retreat back to Snug House’s stylish serviced accommodation in Sheffield. With fully equipped kitchens, plush furnishings, and central locations, Snug House is the perfect place to unwind and recharge before your next adventure. Whether you’re soaking in the bath, curling up on the sofa, or planning your next day’s hike over a cup of coffee, you’ll find everything you need to feel at home.
Book your stay today and enjoy the best of both worlds — Sheffield’s vibrant city life and the Peak District’s stunning scenery right on your doorstep.
