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Walking and cycling in Kinder, Edale and the High Peak

A group walking on Mam Tor, Peak District, Derbyshire
Walking on Mam Tor | © National Trust Images/Trevor Ray Hart

Enjoy walks and breath-taking bike rides at Kinder, Edale and the High Peak. Plan for your day out and discover the best, what to bring and follow the safety information below to make the most of your visit to the Peak District.

Walking in the Peak District

The Peak District is a great place for walking in all seasons and there are plenty of mapped routes you can follow to enjoy peaceful, stress-free walks through this vast and changing landscape.

Discover views over Edale Valley and the Derwent Moors from the heights of Mam Tor, enjoy a circular walk around Kinder Reservoir, or be blown away by a windswept walk on the Kinder plateau.

If you’re stepping off the beaten track, bring along an Ordnance Survey map and compass to navigate your own path through the Peaks – you may discover some quieter, less-travelled routes. Always be prepared and plan your walk in advance.

Cycling in the Peak District

The Peak District is the perfect place to challenge yourself to a picturesque bike ride. There are two cycle-friendly routes in this area of the Peaks: an 18-mile moorland bike ride around the Howden, Derwent and Ladybower Reservoirs; and a 20-mile route through the Hope and Derwent Valleys.

A family walking their dog on a lead at the High Peak Estate on a sunny day. The valley is visible behind them, with green fields, trees and peaks visible in the distance.
Family on a walk at High Peak Estate | © National Trust Images / Trevor Ray Hart

Equipment

Don't forget to bring everything you need for a day outdoors; here's some recommendations to help you prepare before your visit.

Walking

  • Suitable footwear and clothing for the weather
  • Map, compass and whistle
  • Head torch with spare batteries
  • Fully charged mobile phone
  • First-aid kit and hand sanitiser
  • Plenty of food and drink
  • Bag to take all your litter home with you

Cycling

  • Reflective clothing and bike lights
  • Cycle helmet for all cyclists
  • Puncture-repair kit

Safety information

The weather across the Peak District can be unpredictable, so make sure you’re prepared for changing conditions and pack sun cream or extra socks! Take extra care in wet weather – some routes can get muddy and slippery underfoot.

Plan your route before you visit and download any maps, walks or information before setting off as the mobile phone signal is limited or non-existent in many areas of the Peak District. If you’re a solo explorer, please make sure another person knows your route and where you are heading for the day.

When cycling, make sure your bikes are cycle-ready before you leave home and be prepared for emergencies. Look out for pedestrians on your bike ride – there may be other people enjoying the multi-use paths too!

Head to the Mountain Rescue England and Wales website to find out more about the Be Adventure Smart Campaign, which provides practical and life-saving advice for exploring the countryside safely.

A silhouette of a cyclist against the sky on a trail at Longshaw, Burbage and the Eastern Moors, Derbyshire
A cyclist at Edale | © National Trust Images/Robert Morris

Be Peak District Proud

Help us look after the places you love to visit by taking all litter home with you. Be fire aware and please don’t bring barbecues or cooking equipment to the Peak District, and note that camping and campfires are not permitted. Dogs must be kept on leads to keep wildlife and farm animals safe.

Help keep the Peak District countryside a safe and thriving haven for wildlife and for people – protect, respect and enjoy - and be #peakdistrictproud

Two children sitting on the big stones at Back Tor, Edale, Derbyshire overlooking the stunning view.

Discover more at Kinder, Edale and the High Peak

Find out how to get to Kinder, Edale and the High Peak, where to park, the things to see and do and more.

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