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Best rail trail hikes in Derbyshire
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Best rail trail hikes in Derbyshire

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Derbyshire.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Hadfield to Crowden Loop via Valehouse and Rhodeswood Reservoir

Derbyshire, England · star 5.0 (1) · 15.0 km · Est. 3 hrs 49 min

2

Easy

Ashford Lake via Monsal Trail

Derbyshire, England · star 4.8 (4) · 9.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 10 min

3

Easy

Bakewell, Monsal Head and Sheldon Loop

Derbyshire, England · star 4.1 (7) · 19.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 39 min

4

Easy

Ashbourne to Parsley Hay Walk

Derbyshire, England · star 4.7 (3) · 21.2 km · Est. 4 hrs 52 min

5

Easy

Torside Rservoir, Valehouse Rerservoir and Woodhead Reservoir via Longdendale Trail

Derbyshire, England · star 4.8 (5) · 20.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 56 min

6

Medium

Hayfield and Thornsett Circular Walk

Derbyshire, England · star 4.6 (7) · 9.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 33 min

7

Medium

Rhodeswood Reservoir Loop - Crowden

Derbyshire, England · star 4.5 (2) · 12.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 17 min

8

Medium

Tissington Loop

Derbyshire, England · star 4.6 (5) · 6.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 40 min

9

Easy

Tibshelf , Holmewood and Fackley Loop

Derbyshire, England · star 4.4 (5) · 28.4 km · Est. 6 hrs 10 min

10

Medium

Hayfield New Mills and Brierley Green Loop

Derbyshire, England · star 4.0 (1) · 17.7 km · Est. 4 hrs 32 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for rail trail hikes in Derbyshire

Ahmed Beer DC avatar

Hadfield to Crowden Loop via Valehouse and Rhodeswood Reservoir

BackpackerPebbleseeker37 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Jeannette Murphy avatar

Ashford Lake via Monsal Trail

BirchBushwalker32 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Andrew Snowdon avatar

Bakewell, Monsal Head and Sheldon Loop

AndyS · reviewed 12 months ago

star star star star star

Kylee McClure II avatar

Ashbourne to Parsley Hay Walk

AshSkytracker25 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Marjory Considine avatar

Torside Rservoir, Valehouse Rerservoir and Woodhead Reservoir via Longdendale Trail

AspenGlaciertracker49 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Derbyshire

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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