Blackden Brook - Kinder and Upper Ashop

Starting from the edge of the village of Edale, just a short walk from Edale train station, this 11 km (about 6.8 miles) loop trail offers a classic Peak District experience, combining rugged moorland, dramatic cloughs, and sweeping views. The trailhead is easily accessible by train from Manchester or Sheffield, making it a popular choice for those arriving by public transport. For drivers, parking is available at the Edale Village Hall car park, which is well signposted as you enter the village.

Initial Ascent and Blackden Brook

The route begins by following a quiet country lane before joining a footpath that traces the course of Blackden Brook. The initial 2 km (1.2 miles) are relatively gentle, winding through sheep-grazed fields and past dry-stone walls, before the path steepens as you approach the brook itself. Here, the landscape becomes wilder, with heather and bilberry lining the banks and the sound of water tumbling over gritstone boulders. The ascent alongside Blackden Brook is the most challenging section, gaining around 300 metres (985 feet) in just under 2 km (1.2 miles). The path is rocky and can be slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is essential.

Kinder Plateau and Upper Ashop

Emerging onto the Kinder Plateau, the terrain flattens out, offering expansive views across the moorland. This area is known for its peat bogs and unique gritstone formations, shaped by centuries of wind and rain. At around the 4 km (2.5 miles) mark, you’ll reach the edge of the plateau, where the landscape opens up to reveal the Upper Ashop valley below. The plateau is home to mountain hares, curlews, and, in summer, the vibrant purple of flowering heather. Navigation can be challenging in poor visibility, so using HiiKER for GPS guidance is highly recommended.

Historical Significance and Landmarks

Kinder Scout, the high point of the plateau, is visible to the south and is historically significant as the site of the 1932 Mass Trespass, a pivotal event in the campaign for public access to the English countryside. The trail skirts the northern edge of Kinder, passing close to the dramatic gritstone outcrops known as the Wool Packs. These weathered rocks are a popular spot for a break and offer panoramic views over the Ashop valley and beyond.

Descent and Return via Upper Ashop

The descent begins after about 7 km (4.3 miles), following a path that drops steeply into the Upper Ashop valley. This section can be boggy, especially after rain, and the path is sometimes indistinct, so careful navigation is needed. The valley itself is quieter than the more popular routes on Kinder, with lush grassland and the occasional sighting of red grouse or kestrel. After crossing the Ashop, the trail climbs gently back towards the starting point, passing through a mix of open moor and sheltered woodland.

Wildlife and Seasonal Considerations

Throughout the loop, hikers may encounter a variety of wildlife, including skylarks, lapwings, and, in spring, lambs grazing in the lower fields. The area is also rich in plant life, with cotton grass and sphagnum moss in the wetter areas of the plateau. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so waterproof clothing and extra layers are advisable, even in summer.

Getting There and Trail Logistics

Edale is well served by regular trains from Manchester Piccadilly and Sheffield, with the station just a few minutes’ walk from the trailhead. For those driving, the Edale Village Hall car park is the most convenient option, with additional parking available at the nearby Fieldhead Campsite. Facilities in Edale include a café, pub, and public toilets, making it a good base for pre- or post-hike refreshments.

This loop offers a rewarding mix of challenging ascents, wild moorland, and historic landscapes, making it a memorable day out in the heart of the Peak District.