Top 5 Peak District Hikes

A classic Peak District moorland hike to the highest point in the national park, ascending via ancient stone steps.

Why it made the list: Jacob's Ladder is one of the Peak District's most recognisable ascents, ancient stone steps cutting through the moorland to Kinder Scout's summit plateau. It's the obvious choice if you want to tick off the national park's highest point.

A four-mile gritstone ridge above Hathersage with jaw-dropping Hope Valley views, world-class climbing and wide moorland walking.

Why it made the list: Stanage Edge is a proper gritstone ridge that stretches for miles above the Hope Valley. The walking is straightforward but the landscape feels wild, and the views across Derbyshire never let up.

Iconic Peak District circular walk featuring limestone gorge, famous stepping stones and panoramic summit views.

Why it made the list: Dovedale is the Peak District's most iconic gorge walk, with the famous stepping stones and Thorpe Cloud summit giving you legitimate highlights along the way. It's busier than the moorland walks but the limestone landscape is genuinely distinctive.

Moorland hiking to Bleaklow Head and Higher Shelf Stones via the Pennine Way.

Why it made the list: Bleaklow is less crowded than the other peaks and feels properly remote. The walk along the Pennine Way to Higher Shelf Stones gives you a real taste of high moorland hiking without the tourist infrastructure.