Kinder, Edale and the Dark Peak

Dramatic area of the Peak District National Park with stunning views when the weather's good. Centred around Mam Tor, an iconic hill overlooking the Hope Valley, the Dark Peak is home to some of the region's highest hills and wildest moorland, including the famous Kinder Scout area. Challenging walks through valleys and up steep hills lead past impressive rock formations, and there's a considerable amount of industrial history around, with mines a common fixture around Castleton. The ridge walk from Mam Tor is hard to beat on a clear day. Parking has been an issue in this area, so if it's busy, don't block the roads, look elsewhere. Early in the morning and late in the evening there hasn't normally been an issue finding space at one of the designated parking areas. The old road at Mam Tor is a unique place. It was closed in the late 1970s following damage caused by landslides. What's left of the shattered surface is a fascinating spectacle, adding to the atmosphere of the location, with the dark rock of Mam Tor looming behind. Near this former road you can find the Odin Mine with its crushing wheel, a monument to the area's working past. Boggy ground is prevalent in this area, so a good pair of walking boots is advisable, and the ridge walks are very exposed, at elevation and with little to no vegetation cover, so be prepared for changeable weather. Castleton itself marks the edge of the two very different parts of the Peak District, with sweeping open moorland and peaty ground to the north, and limestone dales and softer landscape to the south, making it one of the most interesting places in the National Park, and an excellent base from which to explore the region.

· via Google

A fantastic place for family time or a peaceful solo hike with your dog. Mam Tor and Black Tor are fairly easy and suitable for most people. There are plenty of walking routes around Castleton and beyond. With good weather, the views are absolutely stunning.

· via Google

Mam Tor is truly a breathtaking destination, as evident from the stunning images captured during your visit. The sweeping views of the rolling hills, the lush green pastures dotted with sheep, and the picturesque stone walls all contribute to the idyllic charm of the place. It's easy to see why this location is a haven for photographers, especially during the golden hours when the light adds a magical touch to the landscape. The fact that your 5-year-old daughter managed to walk all the way to the top and back without stopping is a testament to how accessible and family-friendly this hike is. It's not only a great spot for a family outing but also has a romantic appeal, as you noticed with couples enjoying the serene environment. The mix of easy accessibility and stunning scenery makes Mam Tor a perfect spot for both seasoned hikers and families looking for a scenic walk. While the road-side parking is free, the limited number of spaces might require a bit of patience, especially on busy days. Nonetheless, the effort is well worth it for the experience that Mam Tor offers. Whether you're there for the hike, the views, or simply to soak in the beauty of nature, this spot does not disappoint.

· via Google

We did the Mam Tor hike, then the ridge to back Tor, then up to lose hill, down to hope town, then through to Castleton then back to the start. We found free parking off Sheffield road near mam Tor start, just make sure don't park by double yellow line as might get a fine. Very easy routes, well marked, well paved, stunning views, and go through the old towns with loads of green farm fields and sheep. Public toilets are in the towns as nothing on the mountains and loads of free parking in certain areas aswell as pay and display on the more convenient places. Don't forget to take water and some snacks. But there are pubs in the towns if want to refuel there. Few cycle paths and dog friendly. Our loop was around 14km. But you can cut certain places off to make it shorter as we wanted to see everything

· via Google