6 perfect pub walks in the Peak District and Derbyshire

Walking in the Peak District and Derbyshire might be one of the best ways to explore, but it’s also guaranteed to work up your appetite! Luckily you won’t have to travel far to find somewhere special to rest your legs and recharge your batteries. These 6 pub walks in Derbyshire and the Peak District offer amazing views, a warm welcome, high quality food and local beer.

1. Chatsworth Estate Circuit

6 miles | Start/Finish: Devonshire Arms, Beeley

Nestled on the picturesque Chatsworth Estate, the Devonshire Arms at Beeley is the perfect base from which to explore the ‘jewel in the Peak District’s crown’, Chatsworth House.

Follow the small road towards Beeley Church and then the footpath up the steep climb to Beeley Hilltop. Cross Beeley Moor to join the woodland track above Chatsworth with lakes on either side. As you emerge near the iconic Hunting Tower, soak up the amazing views over the house and gardens.

On your return, follow the path close to the main house, then cross the river and follow the path back to Beeley.

2. Ladybower Reservoir & Bamford Edge

4 miles | Start/Finish: Yorkshire Bridge Inn, Bamford

A Peak District classic, this dramatic walk along Bamford Edge

promises fantastic views over the picturesque Ladybower Reservoir and towards Win Hill.

Head south towards Bamford then fork left onto New Road. Head uphill and on reaching the first crest of the hill, with Bamford Edge in sight to your left, head left through the gate. Follow the path towards Bamford Edge and, on reaching the highest point, admire the views of the reservoir below.

Stay on the path which continues even after the rocky edge ends and head down the clough, keeping the stream to your right. Gradually double back on yourself to head south west, reaching an old track which leads to Ladybower Dam.

Walk the short distance back to the Yorkshire Bridge Inn.

3. Dovedale

5 miles | Start/Finish: The George at Alstonefield

Renowned for its stepping stones across the River Dove, Dovedale is one of the Peak District’s most famous beauty spots. From The George, follow the road past the church and over the fields to Milldale. Cross Viator Bridge and take the wide path along the left bank to Ilam Rock (a leaning 90ft limestone pinnacle).

From here there are two options: cross the footbridge and take the path north and then west through pretty Hall Dale and back to the pub via Milldale. Or, if you’re feeling extra energetic, continue further to the famous Stepping Stones below Thorpe Cloud before heading back through Hall Dale.

4. Stanage Edge

6 miles | Start/Finish: Scotsman’s Pack, Hathersage

Situated north of Hathersage village (a honeypot for outdoor enthusiasts) Stanage Edge is the longest gritstone ridge in England.

Starting in the village, ascend up the grassy path whilst enjoying the expansive views. From here, follow a variety of criss-crossing footpaths leading up to Stanage Edge. Stop for a photo (and a well-earned rest) at High Neb, keeping well clear of the steep edge as you go, before descending back into Hathersage.

5. The Great Ridge

6.5 miles | Start/Finish: Castleton

One of the most popular walks in the Peak District, the Great Ridge was included in ITV's Britain's Favourite Walks. This route starts at Castleton, which is famous for its show caverns and is the only place on earth where you can find Blue John Stone!

Climb to the summit of Mam Tor to admire one of the area’s most iconic views. Continue along Back Tor and then onto Lose Hill before following a footpath to your right back to Castleton. A slightly longer route takes you back to Castleton along the riverside, via Hope, where you can enjoy delicious mid-walk refreshments at The Cheshire Cheese Inn.

6. High Peak & Tissington Trails

Up to 17 miles | Start/Finish: The Royal Oak, Hurdlow

This characterful country pub near Buxton has direct access to the High Peak Trail, which stretches for 17 miles, and the Tissington Trail, which joins the High Peak Trail at Parsley Hay and runs for 13 miles to the market town of Ashbourne.

Both routes follow former railway lines and provide easy, accessible walking, cycling and horse-riding for all abilities.