Quick Facts
- 📍 Location: Castleton, Derbyshire Peak District
- ⛰ Highlights: Views over the Edale Valley & Cave Dale
- 🅿️ Parking: S33 8WN
Discover one of the best Peak District hikes, this 10.5 mile Castleton circular is sure to become a favourite. Moderate difficulty with epic views over Cave Dale, Rushup Edge and Edale Valley. A quieter route to escape the crowds on one of the best hikes in Derbyshire.
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Escape the Crowds in Castleton: A Classic Peak District Hike
If you’re looking for one of the best hikes in Derbyshire but want to avoid the busiest footpaths, this 10.5 mile circular walk from Castleton is the perfect choice. With 1,700ft of ascent and descent, steep climbs and uneven terrain, it’s a moderately challenging route that rewards you with some of the most breathtaking Peak District views, without the crowds.
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Starting in Castleton
The walk begins in the charming village of Castleton, famous for its show caverns, Peveril Castle and cosy country pubs. There’s plenty of free on-street parking as well as several car parks in the village, making it an easy starting point.
Why not kick things off with coffee and cake at a local tearoom before heading out? Or save your appetite for the end of the hike, when a hearty pub meal and a well earned pint will taste even better.
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Highlights Along the Route
• Cave Dale – Climb out of Castleton and up through Cave Dale, where the views back down the valley towards Peveril Castle are unforgettable. This steep ascent will get your legs working straight away, but the scenery makes every step worthwhile.
• Rushup Edge – A long ridge offering wide, open views across the Edale Valley. This section is quieter than the nearby Mam Tor path, making it ideal if you’re keen to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace on the trail.
• Mysterious Wrecks – As you cross the main road before reaching Rusphup Edge, keep an eye out for the abandoned wrecks of a Land Rover and even a Porsche. How they ended up here is still a mystery, if you know the story, we’d love to hear it!
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Optional Extension: Mam Tor
If you’re still feeling energetic, you can extend the walk with a short detour up the steps to Mam Tor trig point. It’s just a 10/15 minute climb but offers one of the most iconic views in the Peak District. While Mam Tor is often busy, combining it with this circular makes it feel like a bonus rather than the main event.
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Route Details
• Start/End Point: Castleton, Derbyshire S33 8WN (Visitor centre & car park)
• Distance: 10.5 miles (16.9 km)
• Ascent/Descent: 1,700 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate (steep and uneven terrain in places)
• Time: 4.5–6 hours depending on pace
• Parking: Free on-street parking and village car parks available
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Why Choose This Hike?
This Castleton circular hike is the ideal way to experience the Peak District’s beauty while avoiding the busiest trails. You’ll enjoy dramatic valleys, sweeping ridges, and a taste of Castleton’s hospitality at either end of the walk. If you’re seeking Peak District hikes that let you escape the crowds, this route deserves a spot on your list.
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Final Tips
• Wear sturdy footwear, the path is rocky and uneven in places, and can be muddy in parts after heavy rainfall.
• Pack layers, as weather can change quickly on the ridges.
• Take plenty of snacks and water for the long stretches between villages. The only place to get refreshments on this route is at the start and the end, in Castleton.
• Allow time to relax at the end – Castleton’s pubs are some of the best in Derbyshire! In summer you can take advantage out the outside seating and the views upto ‘The Great Ridge’ whereas in winter you’ll probably be more inclined to sip a post hike hot chocolate by an open fire.
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