Peak District National Park: Outdoor Adventures

The Staffordshire section of Peak District National Park spans roughly 20% of the park's 555 square miles and provides varied terrain for outdoor activities. The area features dramatic landscapes like The Roaches alongside gentler options in the Manifold Valley.

 

Walking Trails and Scenic Walking

The Peak District National Park offers walking routes for all skill levels across its Staffordshire section. The Roaches stands out as a popular destination for walkers who want dramatic views and challenging terrain. The area's high elevation provides expansive vistas across the surrounding countryside.

 

The Manifold Valley presents gentler walking options with rolling hills and riverside paths. The Manifold Trail follows a former railway line and creates an accessible route for families and casual walkers. Flash, England's highest village, serves as a starting point for several walking routes.

 

Ilam Park combines walking with architectural interest through its Italian gardens and 19th-century grounds. The paths wind through landscaped areas and connect to wider trail networks. Longnor's cobbled streets offer a scenic village walk with traditional English character.

 

Cycling Routes and Activities

Cyclists can access varied routes throughout the Staffordshire Peak District. The Manifold Trail provides a traffic-free cycling path suitable for families and leisure riders. This converted railway line offers a flat, well-maintained surface that follows the valley.

 

The Roaches area attracts mountain bikers looking for more technical riding. The terrain includes steep climbs and rocky descents that challenge experienced cyclists. Road cyclists use the park's quiet lanes to cover longer distances between villages like Flash and Longnor.

 

The Moorlands Connect on-demand bus service transports cyclists and their bikes to trailheads throughout the area. This service operates Monday through Saturday from 8am to 6pm, with extended Sunday hours from April to September.

 

Rock Climbing Opportunities

The Roaches features over 700 rock climbing routes that range from beginner to advanced grades. The gritstone edges provide varied climbing styles including cracks, slabs, and overhangs. The area's accessibility from nearby towns makes it a regular destination for climbers from across Northern England.

 

Climbers find routes suitable for traditional climbing with natural protection placements. The rock formations create distinct climbing areas with different characteristics and difficulty levels. The site's popularity means climbers should expect company during weekends and good weather.

 

Hang gliders also use The Roaches, taking advantage of the elevation and wind patterns. The multiple activities at this location make it a hub for adventure sports in the Staffordshire section of the park.