Lud’s Church

Lovely peaceful walk. I personally do feel like it could be better sign posted and maybe some information about luds church it’s self outside it would be good as other wise it’s a google search to find info. I parked at grandbach car park, I walked right up the road, keep going straight up the road past the cafe and you will eventually see a scout area with a fence on the left and a small path on the right, take the small path and keep walking straight up, you will then see a steep path on your right so go down that an over the bridge an up the steps, turn right again until you get to some rocks, you’ll then see sign posts to turn left for luds church, follow it up and it’s on your right hand side.

Absolutely loved our visit to Lud's Church. Hidden away in the forest, this place genuinely feels like stepping into another world. The moss-covered walls, cool air, and narrow pathways through the chasm make it feel so magical and peaceful. We visited on the hottest day of the year so far and the shaded gorge was the perfect escape after the walk in. The route itself was really enjoyable too, with stepping stones across the river at the start and beautiful woodland scenery the whole way through. I’m definitely a beginner hiker, but the walk was manageable and absolutely worth it for the views and atmosphere once you arrive. Knowing the local legends about Robin Hood and Friar Tuck hiding here made it feel even more special. We finished the day cooling off by the river and grabbing a cold drink nearby such a lovely experience from start to finish. One of the most unique places I’ve visited in the Peak District and somewhere I’d highly recommend visiting if you enjoy nature, history, and hidden gems.

Luds Church a natural chasm of 100 meters long and 18 meters deep with moss covered walls that is both Mystical and magical with links to the story of the Green Knight and a 15th century place of of worship of the persecuted religious group known as the Lollards. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended as the Chasm can be damp and muddy. Best parking to be found is at Gradbach which is free but you need to drive past the paid for car park that currently charges £5 a day. From leaving the car park turn right head up the lane where you will come to the entrance to Gradbach Mill, which is being used as a wedding venue, you need to walk down the slope and through the mill and farmhouse grounds where you pick up the sign for Luds Church. It's a lovely walk but there is some steep enclines from the field by the river when entering the woods.. It a really nice walk up through nature where you will be rewarded when you reach Luds Church. Lots of people was walking and if you feel lost or unsure you'll find plenty of people that will give you directions. All in all this is a lovely walk to a very Mystical and magical place. The big bonus its FREE early start would probably ensure you get the limited free parking. Check the pictures below to give you a better idea.

Good walk, a lot of uphill. Not one for our friends in a wheelchair. Lots of places to sit and relax in nature on the way but no actual benches etc. Me and my 6 year old managed fine with a slow walk. Max 45 mins from car park to get to Luds Church. Very very muddy when you're actually in there and my son got his shoe stuck in the mud. We're talking The Never Ending Story with with quicksand. Beautiful place to see at least once. Parked at the car park before the one they reccomdend. It cost £5 for the whole day and you're essentially parking on a small field. Lots of space for cars if you don't mind paying.

Luds church and the Roaches is well worth the visit, but make sure you get there early to be able to appreciate the quietness and the peacefulness of the walks especially when you get out onto the Roaches it is so quiet all you can hear are the birds and a odd plane. Try and go when its good weather as some parts of the walk are pretty slippy, make sure you take some good walking boots or shoes especially at Luds church as its some 18 metres deep so doesn't get a lot of sun to dry it out. The actual walk to Luds church is pretty easy, but try and print some sort of map off as its not very well signposted and the phone networks aren't very good. we ended up taking the wrong turn, but it didn't matter still made the walks very enjoyable. Try and get there early as Gradbach carpark which is free get full very quickly as there is only enough room for about 15 cars, but there are 2 pay carparks which cost £5 for the whole day with a catering van onsite. It does get very busy here at times. The only toilets are at Gradbach tearooms which are closed during the winter months and reopens April. But on the whole a thoroughly enjoyable walk. Please checkout my pictures which may help for a more enjoyable experience.