Just to the west of Sheffield is (in my opinion) the most beautiful part of the Peak District: Hope Valley. From craggy rocks to picturesque villages, this valley is a popular area for walkers, hikers, climbers and even paragliders. The area is also well connected, meaning you don’t need a car to get to some of the most stunning view points.

A lot of history, folklore and legends can be found in Hope Valley. Ask any local or frequent
visitors and they will tell you about the tale of Lose and Win Hill where Edwin of Northumbria and Cynegils of Wessex met in battle. Or, if you prefer the more magical tale, you can ask about the battle between two giants who hurled rocks across the valley to win a maiden’s affections.
Whether you’re looking for a morning walk, a day in the hills or a weekend away, I’ve put
together my favourite walking areas in Hope Valley. Each area has multiple walks, meaning you can adjust the difficulty and length to your liking. Also, they are all well connected if you intend to take public transport.

My Favourite Morning Walk
Derwent Reservoir
Not to be confused with the Derwent Reservoir in the Lake District, Hope Valley’s Derwent walk includes a beautiful historic dam which, after some good rain, overflows into an impressive and serene waterfall. If you’re travelling by car then you can find parking at the Fairholmes Visitor Centre or on the side of the road along the way. Most laybys are now pay and display, but if you’re early you may be able to grab a free spot. You can also take the 257 bus directly from Sheffield.
There are lots of routes to take around Derwent, which you can view on the map at the visitor centre. My partner and I like to stay on the main path around the reservoir, going anti clockwise, so we end with a view of the beautiful dam. On hot days, we also like to grab an ice-cream from the cafe hut which also serves hot and cold drinks, and food!
Stunning Views
Hope / Win Hill Circular
You can’t head into the Peaks without expecting some hills. Personally, I’m not very good with hills (going up or down) but the views are often worth it. Starting in Hope, there are many circular walks which take you between Lose and Win Hill (which you may want to add into your hike), up to Hope Cross, the medieval waymarker, and along the river Ashop.
Staying up high, you’ll get stunning views of the whole valley and may even see a bomber plane flying overhead. You can also head down to the riverside where stony bays offer excellent picnic spots and a chance to test your stone skimming abilities. Plenty of buses head out to Hope and there’s also a train station, so you can get to the village from both Sheffield and Manchester.
Mam Tor
One of the most iconic sites of the peak district, Mam Tor (meaning the Mother Hill) formed
around 300-360 million years ago. Its steep cliff face, unusual for the area, is a result of multiple landslides caused by unstable lower levels of shale. You can still see many of the rocks sticking out of the grassy ground today. But don’t worry, plenty of health and safety is enforced to ensure it’s safe to walk.
Likely occupied from the late Bronze Age, you’ll find two well-preserved ancient hill forms at the summit. The Great Ridge, running from Mam Tor to Lose Hill is a popular and well-paved walking spot. On a good day, you’ll also find many paragliders enjoying the wind and weather.
After having your head in the skies, you can head down into the village of Castleton and visit one of the Blue John mines to learn about the only place in the world where Blue John is found. Mam Tor can be reached from both Castleton and Hope, both of which are well connected by bus and train.
Life on the Edge
Stanage Edge
Both my grandpa’s favourite walk and a location in one of my favourite films, Stanage Edge has it all. This site’s gritstone edges feature in the 2005 version of Pride & Prejudice, adding drama and intensity to the scene. In the warmer months, you’ll find an abundance of rock climbers and plenty of wildlife, from common lizards to blackface sheep.
Just under four miles long, Stanage is a popular walk for people of all ages. There’s also a
quaint picnic area in the Hollins Bank car park, although the many rocks along the edge also
provide great seats and cover from the wind. Once a medieval packhorse route, the top is an
easy (although clambering) walk. Those travelling by public transport can get to Stanage by bus, heading to Hope, or by train, getting off at Hathersage.

Baslow Edge
I may have cheated with this one as Baslow Edge isn’t actually in Hope Valley. Instead it’s about 10 miles away and you’ll have to get on a different bus route. But! I wanted to include this walk because I’ve been going there since I was a young child. In my family, this walk was called ‘the Rocks’.
Like Stange, Baslow Edge offers beautiful panoramic views. The path is surrounded by
moorland heather and, unsurprisingly, plenty of rocks. You might also get to see the Highland Cows of Baslow Fold, who roam around the area. If you get your timing right, then there’ll be lots of fluffy calves around - just make sure to keep a respectful distance.
Baslow Edge also has the famous Eagle Stone. As my grandpa used to tell me, the local men
used to climb this rock before they got married in order to prove their masculinity. So, if you’ve got a partner you’re looking to impress, this is the walk for you!

The Eagle Stone

Baslow & Curbar Edge
Family Fun
Padley Gorge
While some of the areas I’ve covered so far are family friendly, you’ll still want to add Padley
Gorge to your list. Near the Longshaw Estate, the gorge is an idyllic location. Its gentle stream, tumbling waterfalls and shady trees make Padley Gorge the ultimate place to paddle on hot days. Bring a picnic and you can spend hours splashing about and enjoying the fairytale scenery.
If you fancy more of a walk, then you can cross over the river and head up to Surprise View.
Over the road, there’s a car park (which usually has a resident ice-cream van) for a rocky walk up to some gorgeous views. Even including Surprise View, this isn’t a super long walk so it’s ideal for those morning hikes or relaxed explorations on summer days.


Challenge Yourself
Edale Skyline
If, however, you like a challenge on your walking days out then I’d suggest you look into the
Edale Skyline. I’m yet to attempt this one as it’s 20 miles long which is (currently) a little outside my comfort zone. The ascent is over 1,000 metres, summiting Brown Knoll, Mam Tor, Back Tor, Lose Hill and Win Hill. You’ll get stunning views of Hope Valley and Edale Valley. While it’s a long walk, it’s not meant to be super technical, so it's a great starting point for newer long distance walkers.
There are also lots of organisations that run group walks if you wanted some moral support or company for this challenge. Whether you’re looking for a little fun in the sun, photography opportunities, a place to splish-splash in the water, or a hike to build your strength and endurance, Hope Valley has it all.

Hopefully I’ve helped you find some new areas to walk! If so, be sure to let me know about your adventures!

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