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National Walking Month in the Peak District

Published:
06 May 2026
Visitors walking on Mam Tor, Peak District, Derbyshire
Visitors walking on Mam Tor, Peak District, Derbyshire | © National Trust Images/Trevor Ray Hart

The Peak District has miles and miles of paths and plenty of places for a walk in stunning countryside. If you’re looking for inspiration during National Walking Month here’s a round-up of options for exploring if you’re looking for a short walk or a more challenging hike. You’ll find a collection of guided walk options here too.

Ilam Park and the White Peak

With its rolling hills, limestone cliffs, wonderful woodlands and picturesque river views, Ilam Park, Dovedale and the White Peak is a great destination for walking, and finding stunning views. There are plenty of options for a walk in this beautiful area of the Peak District from a gentle stroll or a more adventurous hike.

Ilam Park’s accessible paths make this a great place for exploring with all the family. There’s a 1km circular step free route around the parkland, with plenty of benches along the route to pause for a rest and enjoy the view.

Discover trail suggestions on the ‘Things to See and Do’ page of Ilam Park | Derbyshire | National Trust

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

Guided walks starting from Ilam Park in May

Join knowledgeable and friendly guides for a free Relaxed Ramble guided walk on the first Wednesday of every month. These gentle walks in the White Peak countryside last for up to 2 hours and are a great opportunity to connect with the great outdoors in a friendly and accessible way.

There are guided walks taking place to bring the history, geology and famous literary masterpieces inspired by the White Peak to life throughout May.

On the 16 May, a Literary Legends of the White Peak walk (10am – 2.30pm) will introduce some of the great writers who have been inspired by the White Peak landscape along the route. Hear from Jane Austin, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, William Wordsworth and many more!

At the end of the month there’s a hands-on geology tour for all the family with stunning views guaranteed. Book onto our Family Guided Walk: Geology, Archaeology and Landscape (10am – 2.30pm) on the 28 May. This walk will help curious minds of all ages discover fun and exciting facts about this ancient landscape.

Find out more and book your place on each guided walk here Events at Ilam Park, Dovedale and the White Peak

A group of hikers exploring a hilly landscape on a sunny winter's day.
The Muslim Hikers walking group exploring at Ilam Park in Derbyshire | © National Trust Images/Paul Harris

Longshaw

Longshaw is a wonderful place to discover spectacular views of the Peak District, ancient woods, parkland and heather moorland.

There are a network of footpaths and bridleways with ancient woods, gritstone crags and heather moorland. The dramatic landscape makes the perfect place for a walk, or a more adventurous hike. There are family trails close to Longshaw or wide open countryside to explore across the moors.

Discover top trail suggestions on the things to see and do page of the Longshaw here Longshaw, Burbage & the Eastern Moors | National Trust

Guided Walks at Longshaw

Every Wednesday morning experienced guides who know the area lead free social walks (10.30am – 1pm) around Longshaw.

On 29 May, Discover spring wildlife and spectacular views at Longshaw on a Morning Wildlife Walk (9.30am – 12pm).

Kinder, Edale and the High Peak

The countryside in the High Peak area boasts heather moors, high gritstone edges and monumental windswept tors. The footpaths and bridleways crossing this vast landscape can make an exhilarating day out, whatever the weather. There are challenging and remote walking options and gentler routes that still allow you to witness the beauty of this upland landscape.

Discover trail suggestions on the things to see and do page Kinder, Edale & High Peak | Peak District | National Trust or join our knowledgeable walk leaders on a guided walk.

A group of people laughing together and resting on their hike Mam Tor, Peak District, Derbyshire
Walking on Mam Tor, Peak District, Derbyshire | © National Trust Images/Trevor Ray Hart

Guided Walks in the High Peak

Join us for a free social walk (11am-2pm) in Edale on the first Friday of each month or Castleton on the third Friday of each month, led by our knowledgeable walk leaders.

Walk the Ethels with a knowledgeable guide. On 22 May (10am – 2.30pm), there is a moderate guided walk conquering two of the Peak District's most-loved Ethels, Lords Seat and Mam Tor, setting off from Edale. Look out for others in this series of walks throughout the summer.

Find out more and book your place on guided walks in the High Peak Events at Kinder, Edale and the High Peak

Top tips and advice

If you’re planning a trip to the Peak District here are a few ways to visit safely and help to protect what is special about this National Park when you are here:

  • Leave no trace – take everything you bring back home.

  • Bring a picnic not a BBQ - BBQs and fires damage protected landscapes and threaten wildlife so they are not permitted in the National Park.

  • Keep your dog on a lead – for the safety of your pet, farm animals and wildlife.

  • Please park responsibly and in designated spaces, or use public transport if you can.

  • Plan your walking route carefully and be aware of the remote nature of the landscape and the chance that there won’t be phone signal.

  • Make sure your footwear and clothing is appropriate for the place you’re walking in and consider if it will keep you safe in the place you are walking in changeable weather conditions.

Walking and cycling in Kinder, Edale and the High Peak 

Discover the best views of the Peak District on a refreshing walk or bike ride through Kinder, Edale and the High Peak in Derbyshire.

A group walking on Mam Tor, Peak District, Derbyshire

Walking in the Midlands 

From tranquil woodlands and open countryside to picturesque peaks with a view, discover top spots in the Midlands to enjoy gentle strolls and invigorating hikes in nature.

Three walkers with Thorpe Cloud in the distance at Ilam Park, Dovedale and the White Peak.