Five of the best short walks in the Peak District (Bakewell and the White Peak)
It would be hard to imagine a more perfect setting for a series of short scenic walks than the limestone dales of the central and southern Peak District, often known as the White Peak. With a stately home to visit, meandering rivers and a rich history of industry and transport, the Peak District has something for every hiker at any time of year. Here are the top five short walks in the area.
15 Short Walks in the Peak District - Bakewell and the White Peak
£9.95
Discover 15 of the best short walks around Bakewell and the White Peak. Each walk comes with easy-to-read Ordnance Survey maps, clear route description and lots of images, plus information on beauty spots and refreshment stops. No challenging terrain or complicated navigation means walks can be enjoyed by everyone.
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The best walk for visiting Chatsworth House...
What: Chatsworth Park and Edensor
Summary: A gentle walk around the estate with impressive views of the stately home
Start/finish: Calton Lees, Chatsworth
Time: 2hr
Distance: 6.5km (4 miles)
Climb: 145m
No visit to the Peak District is complete without a walk around Chatsworth, whose extensive landscaped grounds are free to explore on foot. This route climbs gently to the western edge of the park, from where there are spectacular views, then via the unusual estate village of Edensor down to the stately pile beside the river. If you want to explore the house and gardens (there's an entrance fee, but it's worth it), then factor in plenty of extra time or plan a separate visit.
The best walk for exploring mining heritage...
What: Sheldon and Magpie Mine
Summary: Explore the remains of Magpie Mine, part of Britain's lead mining history
Start/finish: Main Street, Sheldon
Time: 1 1/4hr
Distance: 4.5km (2 3/4 miles)
Climb: 55m
The limestone uplands of the White Peak were once the centre of the Britain’s lead mining industry, and this easy walk along lanes and fields from the peaceful village of Sheldon visits the best-preserved site in the Peak District. Old buildings, chimneys, tunnels and spoil heaps reflect 300 years of effort as miners toiled to extract the valuable mineral, but the haunting remains also tell of the dangers and disappointments that went with it.
The best walk for woodland trails...
What: Bakewell, Manners Wood and the River Wye
Summary: Visit the quaint town of Bakewell and the richly wooded hills surrounding it
Start/finish: Bakewell Visitors Centre, Bridge Street
Time: 2 3/4hr
Distance: 9km (5 1/2miles)
Climb: 165m
Situated deep in the Wye valley, Bakewell is ringed by hills and this walk begins with a long but steady climb up to the tree-covered slopes to the east. The path levels out and the mature, tranquil woodland is full of birds and wildflowers. An open and easy descent on tracks past Haddon Hall, with views across the valley, ends with a gentle return across tree-lined meadows beside the River Wye.
The best walk for viaduct views...
What: Monsal Head tunnel and viaduct
Summary: Explore the former railway line turned recreational trail
Start/finish: Monsal Head Hotel
Time: 1 1/2hr
Distance: 5km (3 miles)
Climb: 100m
You don’t have to be a train buff to enjoy this short but dramatic walk along the former railway line turned recreational trail at Monsal Head. From the cool, dark depths of a tunnel you switch immediately to the airy heights of a viaduct, then descend to the picturesque river winding through the dale far below. This is a relatively easy walk with modest gradients but lots of drama.
The best walk for riverside rambles...
What: River Derwent and Calver Weir
Summary: Take a relaxing stroll along the river via a historic weir
Start/finish: Calver Bridge
Time: 1 1/4hr
Distance: 4.5km (2 3/4 miles)
Climb: 20m
This is a relaxing riverside walk through the trees beside the wide and fast-flowing Derwent, taking in handsome stone bridges and an equally historic weir across the river. It’s a flat and easy route, although the woodland paths can be muddy after rain and care is needed crossing the main road at New Bridge halfway round.
All these walks (plus 10 more!) are included in our guidebook to Short Walks in the Peak District - Bakewell and the White Peak. Other highlights include the Elton and Robin Hood's Stride, Taddington, Baslow Edge, Curbar Edge and Stanton Moor. Easy-to-read maps and clear route descriptions make these walks perfect for beginners and families. No specialist gear is needed, and each route includes information on facilities, parking, and highlights.
15 Short Walks in the Peak District - Bakewell and the White Peak
£9.95
Discover 15 of the best short walks around Bakewell and the White Peak. Each walk comes with easy-to-read Ordnance Survey maps, clear route description and lots of images, plus information on beauty spots and refreshment stops. No challenging terrain or complicated navigation means walks can be enjoyed by everyone.
More information
