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Outdoor activities on the Clent Hills

Two people run along a gravel track at the Longshaw Estate in Derbyshire on a sunny winters day
Outdoor activities on the Clent Hills | © National Trust Images/Tom Harman

Enjoy the great outdoors on the Clent Hills with miles of bridleways to explore. They can be tough climbs, but the rewarding views make it worth the exercise. Find out more about the best routes and keeping yourself safe while out walking and cycling on the Clent Hills.

Cycling at Clent

The Clent Hills have an extensive network of 27 bridleways which are shared by ramblers, dog walkers, horses, and cyclists. Be aware that all routes can be very busy at times with horses and walkers, so a bell and polite call to other users is recommended.

Guidance for passing horses:

  • Slow down
  • Give verbal warning
  • Pass downside where possible
  • Remember, you may have to stop completely, it is their right of way

Staying on track

Please only use official trails when cycling at Clent Hills. The trail at Walton Hill is an unofficial cycle trail which has been created by cyclists without permission. Its use has led to significant environmental damage in a conservation area, including severe erosion, flooding of neighbouring roads and local houses, and the disturbance of an active badger’s sett which carries legal penalties.

While carrying out winter tree conservation work, the team have addressed the issues created by the unofficial trail by introducing gullies and making catchment areas using the felled trees, which are left to create deadwood habitats.

Signs have been put up advising of the work and the reasons why the steps needed to be taken. Unauthorised bike trails will be actively closed and rehabilitated to protect public safety, mitigate visitor risk and to protect the environment.

Walking at Clent

Follow in the footsteps of Edwardian day trippers at Adams Hill or head off the beaten track to the peaceful Walton Hill. There are walks available for all abilities and time scales. Whichever you choose you'll be rewarded with stunning views across several counties and an abundance of wildlife.

Two walkers following a path downhill through woodland at Clent Hills
Visitors enjoying a woodland walk at Clent Hills | © National Trust Images / James Dobson

Equipment and safety

When walking or cycling on the Clent Hills, please make sure you are prepared and bring the correct equipment with you. Here's what we recommend for safe cycling and walking.

Cycling:

  • Ensure your bike is safe to ride and be prepared for emergencies
  • Always wear a helmet
  • Reflective materials on your clothes or bike can save your life

Walking:

  • Light layers
  • Sensible shoes
  • Drinks and snacks
  • Sun, rain or wind protection – or possibly all three!

Safety advice

  • Always carry a mobile phone and identification
  • Ride and walk within your ability
  • Always tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back
  • Particular care should be taken on unstable or wet surfaces

Safety information

Please follow all safety advice carefully in order to minimise the risks and stay safe while exploring the Clent Hills.

Care for the Clent Hills

When you visit the Clent Hills, please help us to protect this special landscape by sticking to the paths. Please don't ride or walk over plants, and do go through puddles rather than avoiding them – this prevents the paths from widening.

Be considerate to wildlife and livestock, and please slow down near animals if you're cycling.

Help care for Clent by taking your litter home with you, and please leave the barbecues at home. Campfires and barbecues are not allowed anywhere on the hills because of the fire risk.

A child and parent crouching in the woodland to look at a Fly Agaric fungi among fallen leaves at Clent Hills, surrounded by trees

Discover more at the Clent Hills

Find out how to get to the Clent Hills, where to park, the things to see and do and more.

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