Fascinating limestone landscapes, dramatic gorges, ancient lead mines, hidden caves and spectacular Peak District views. Intermediate

About this walk

These weekday walks take place regularly throughout the Peak District and are designed to help women build confidence in the outdoors while discovering some of the area's most beautiful landscapes, fascinating history and hidden gems.

Join Peak Outdoor Community for a moderate circular walk that explores one of the Peak District's lesser-known landscapes before finishing with spectacular views over one of Britain's most iconic limestone gorges.

Our route begins with the ascent of Eldon Hill, one of the Peak District's 95 Ethels, where we'll learn about this historic landscape and discover the remains of a Bronze Age burial site. We'll then visit Eldon Hole, hearing stories of the area's rich lead mining heritage and the legends surrounding one of Britain's deepest natural shafts.

We'll finish high above the famous Winnats Pass, taking in panoramic views while uncovering the fascinating geology that shaped this dramatic landscape over millions of years. You'll also discover why this area is world-famous for the rare Blue John stone, found only in and around Castleton.

Throughout the walk there will be plenty of opportunities to stop, take photographs and learn about the history, geology and folklore that make this corner of the Peak District so unique.

Distance: approx 12 km

Ascent: 332 m

Time: 4-4.5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Suitable for walkers with a reasonable level of fitness. Expect uneven rocky paths, grassy tracks, moderate climbs and some uneven limestone terrain.

Who will be your guide?

I’m Emily, founder of Peak Outdoor Community, and I’m a Mountain Leader based in Glossop at the edge of the Dark Peak. I’ve always been outdoorsy since being a young girl but hiking became a real obsession in 2019 when I started to go solo. I aim to inspire other women to learn the many benefits of exploring in the outdoors and I’m passionate about sharing my love for adventure with you!

Feel free to check out the website: Peak Outdoor Community and follow us on Instagram and Facebook: @peakoutdoorcommunity

Meeting Information

Meeting Point: pay and display car park (free to NT members) Mam Tor Hillfort Car ParkHope Valley S33 8WA, Google Maps

We will meet at 9.45 am to leave at 10am.

Car sharing from Glossop can often be arranged—please get in touch if you'd like adding to the group chat.

What to bring:

Hiking boots or shoes with good grip

Snacks/lunch to sustain you for up to 4.5 hours

Rucksack

Water (at least 1L)

Waterproofs

Warm layers

Sun hat/sun cream

Hat and gloves

A small first aid kit with any personal medications

Walking poles, sit mat, hot drink (optional extras)

Terrain:

Well-maintained paths and trails for the most part. Some uneven limestone paths, grassy trails, stony tracks and moderate ascents/descents. Some sections can become muddy and slippery after wet weather.

Toilets:

Public toilets are available in Castleton before and after the walk. There are no facilities at the car park or on the route.

Safety:

The aim of every Peak Outdoor Community walk is to create a welcoming, relaxed and enjoyable experience. We walk at a comfortable pace with plenty of opportunities to stop, chat, take photographs and learn about the landscape.

As with all outdoor activities, there are inherent risks. Participants are responsible for ensuring they are fit enough for the walk and should let us know about any relevant medical conditions before attending.

All participants must complete a Medical & Disclaimer Form at least 24 hours before the event.

All walks are led by qualified Mountain Leaders with Outdoor First Aid qualifications.

Dogs:

Well-behaved dogs are welcome provided they remain on a lead throughout the walk.

Refund Policy*:

Refunds are only available if Peak Outdoor Community cancels the event.

If you can no longer attend, you're welcome to transfer your ticket to someone else—please let us know beforehand.

Tickets cannot be transferred to another event unless this has been arranged.

And FINALLY:

Our walks go ahead in all seasons because some of the best adventures happen when we embrace the British weather!

In the event that the hike needs to be postponed for safety reasons (weather warnings, moor fires, etc), and you can't make the new date, you will be offered a voucher to use on a future event.

Please see our website for our full Terms & Conditions.

Description supplied by the event organiser.