Spring is a magical time to explore our National Parks, and it is especially delightful to take a family trip when the parks are bursting with new life. From the bloom of seasonal wildflowers to glistening stone walls in the spring sunshine, the Easter holidays are the perfect time to get out with the family and explore. Our friends at The National Parks lead vital conservation projects and help preserve some of our country’s most precious ecosystems and landscapes. April marks 75 years since the Peak District became the UK’s first National Park, and there’s no better way to celebrate than on foot. So here are some of our favourite accessible Peak District hikes, perfect for all ages and abilities.
Padley Woodland Wander
Location: Grindleford
Start: Grindleford Station (S32 2AH / What3Words: brother.defend.quench)
Length: 3.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy-moderate
The gentle woodland walk from Grindleford Station takes families across Burbage Brook through ancient oak woods with plenty of birdsong and wildlife to enjoy. The route visits the atmospheric Padley Chapel and the surrounding ruins – all that remains of Padley Manor, built in the 14th and 15th centuries. Once you’ve checked out the ruins, the trail loops back along woodland streams. This is a lovely starter walk for kids curious about the outdoors – make sure to look out for the many birdboxes dotted along the way.
Castleton Village and Fields Walk
Location: Hope Valley
Parking: Castleton Visitor Centre (S33 8WN / What3Words: groomed.irrigated.garages)
Length: 1.4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Perfect for younger walkers on a shorter Easter outing, this level walk starts in Castleton village and meanders through open fields, offering lovely views of Mam Tor, also known as ‘Mother Hill’, and the surrounding hills. There’s a children’s play area along the way and plenty of scenic stops to take in local history and the beauty of the Hope Valley. For any budding young historians, they’ll be able to discover Mam Tor’s ancient Bronze and Iron Age history at the National Park visitor centre.
Bakewell & River Wye Riverside Walk
Location: Bakewell
Parking: Bakewell Visitor Centre (DE45 1DS / What3Words: among.overdrive.outlast)
Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
For families who enjoy riverside views and gentle terrain, the Bakewell & River Wye walk is ideal. Starting in the historic market town of Bakewell, famous for the toponymous Bakewell Pudding, this easy route follows the River Wye, offering great chances to spot ducks, kingfishers and even water voles as you stroll. The majority of the walk is paved and takes you past quaint shops and cafes, and ends with the town park, so it’s excellent for those wanting to undertake a little window shopping along the way.
Edale Stride
Location: Edale
Parking: Edale Visitor Centre (S33 7ZA / What3Words: solicitor.elbow.amended)
Length: 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy-moderate
A Peak District classic, this walk heads up Edale Valley, following river paths and forested sections with moderate gradients. This is a slightly more rugged walk, and there is the opportunity for the more adventurous to scramble amongst a cluster of large boulders, locally nicknamed Halfway House. It’s a fantastic way to introduce children to upland landscapes without committing to steep peaks, and there are perfect picnic spots alongside the stream to pause and enjoy an Easter treat. Once you’ve rested and enjoyed the view, you’ll retrace your steps back towards the start.
Derwent Dambusters walk
Location: Upper Derwent Valley
Parking: Fairholmes Car Park (S33 0AQ / What3Words: intensely.branched.writers)
Length: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
A shorter but fascinating walk for families with younger children is the Derwent Dambusters Walk. Beginning at Fairholms, this trail leads through woodland to viewpoints over Derwent Dam and along the reservoir edge. There’s plenty of history to soak up there, including stories of the area’s significance during WWII, and the flooding of Derwent village when the reservoirs were filled – after particularly long dry spells, the rooftops of the houses can be seen poking from the water.
Goyt Valley Riverside & Ridges Walk
Location: Goyt Valley
Parking: Errwood Hall Car Park (SK17 6GJ / What3Words: happening.holly.channel)
Length: 4+ miles
Difficulty: Moderate
For families with a little more walking experience who are ready for their next challenge, the Goyt Valley walk combines rivers, woodland paths and open ridges with stunning views over reservoirs and countryside. There’s an option to detour up to the summit of Shining Tor for excellent panoramic views. If tempted, it’s worth mentioning that Shining Tour is the highest point in Cheshire, and on clear days, you can see Snowdon in Wales. Or you can simply enjoy the main route that keeps to gentler ground.
It’s important to be prepared when out and about, so brushing up on the Countryside Code is a good move. It’s also important to prepare your gear before you head out, too: spring weather is notoriously indecisive, so cleaning and reproofing your waterproof jackets and trousers with Grangers will keep your adventures protected, even if the clouds appear. Whether you’re wandering woodlands, walking riversides or exploring village trails, these family-friendly Peak District walks are perfect for the Easter holidays… and a wonderful way to celebrate 75 years of this historic National Park!
For more information on these trails and for more inspiration, check out the Peak District National Park’s downloadable walking guides.
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