walkpeakdistrict

A collection of the best short Peak District walks, all with detailed visual guides free to download, travel info and maps

Walking on Axe Edge, Peak District

Explore the Peak District on foot — with step-by-step photographic guides for every route.

Whether you're planning your first Peak District walk or adding to a long list of favourites, you'll find a walk on walkpeakdistrict that's worth lacing your boots for. Each itinerary includes a full visual guide with annotated photographs at every key turning point, so you can navigate with confidence without having to constantly refer to a map. Just follow the arrows!

Routes are all less than 5 miles (ideal for a leisurely half-day), and range from strolls along reservoirs to more hilly walks with sweeping views. All are hand-picked for their character — a mix of dramatic gritstone edges, attractive rivers, ancient tors, and tucked-away dales that reward those who take the time to explore.

The Peak District is one of Britain's most visited national parks, and for good reason — it packs extraordinary variety into a compact area. Whether you're based in Sheffield, Manchester, Derby, or Buxton — or visiting on holiday from further afield — a world-class walk is waiting for you here in the Peak District.

Browse the walks below (or use the "Walks" menu above) to find a route that suits the time you have available, fitness level, and location (see the "Map" page for every walk's starting point).

Sort by: name · length · updated · region   
Order: ascending · descending

Axe Edge

Take in the far-reaching views from Axe Edge and Axe Edge Moor, south-west of Buxton.
( miles)

Western Peak District

Bamford Edge

Experience stunning views from the gritstone escarpment of Bamford Edge.
( miles)

Eastern Peak District

Burbage Rocks

Explore Burbage Rocks and Higger Tor, featuring stunning gritstone outcrops and panoramic views.
(4 miles)

Eastern Peak District

Cats Tor

Visit the easy summit of Cats Tor for extensive views over the Cheshire Plain.
(1 mile)

Western Peak District

Chee Dale

Discover the famous Chee Dale stepping stones on the River Wye, hidden away just 3 miles from Buxton.
(4 miles)

Central Peak District

Corbar Hill

Visit the cross on Corbar hill, and take in extensive views of Buxton while you're there.
( miles)

Western Peak District

Derwent Reservoir

Visit the impressive Derwent Dam and enjoy views from the surrounding hills on this walk from Fairholmes.
( miles)

Northern Peak District

Fernilee Reservoir

Walk all the way round this attractive wooded reservoir in the Goyt Valley.
(3 miles)

Western Peak District

Kinder Reservoir

Escape the crowds on this beautiful circular walk around peaceful Kinder Reservoir.
( miles)

Central Peak District

Lud's Church

Explore this remote and mysterious chasm, hidden away in the woods near Gradbach.
( miles)

Western Peak District

Shining Tor

Admire the view from the highest point in Cheshire – see if you can spot Snowdon.
(3 miles)

Western Peak District

Shutlingsloe

Climb Shutlingsloe – the Cheshire Matterhorn – a shapely peak above Macclesfield Forest.
(3 miles)

Western Peak District

Three Shires Head

Visit the beautiful waterfalls at Three Shires Head – the point where Cheshire, Staffordshire and Derbyshire meet.
( miles)

Western Peak District

Wildmoorstone

Enjoy splendid views from the disused Cromford & High Peak Railway.
(2 miles)

Western Peak District

Citation.