Best public transport walks near Manchester: Solomon’s Temple
A Peak District wander with woods, pubs, temples and plenty of sweet treats – no car required
Start: Buxton Station
Distance: 9.74 miles
Duration: 4 hours
Elevation: 1,275 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Navigation: Follow step-by-step on komoot, or download GPX file
About the route
Looking for a cracking Peak District walk that ticks off skyline views, a brewery stop, and an easy train ride home? This 9-mile Buxton loop has a bit of everything: a public transport-friendly wander that’s big on moorland magic and post-walk pub stops.
Starting and ending in Buxton town centre, this 9-mile loop weaves together some of the best walking the area has to offer. You’ll climb up to Solomon’s Temple, climb to Corbar Cross, amble across peaceful moorland paths, and finish up with a well-earned beer at Buxton Brewery’s Trackside taproom. Along the way you’ll walk through parkland, Victorian gardens, and spa-town charm — the best of the Peak District in one day.
Route difficulty
Terrain: Mostly easy-going with a couple of uphill sections (Solomon’s Temple & Corbar)
Good for: Active beginners, solo hikers, or anyone after a moorland fix without needing a car
Why you’ll love this walk
Incredible views from Solomon’s Temple
Quiet, sweeping moorland paths
Trackside beers at Buxton Brewery
A stroll through Buxton’s Pavilion & gardens
Easy to reach by train or bus
Route highlights
Solomon’s Temple – A Victorian hilltop folly with 360° views over Buxton and the White Peak.
Corbar Cross – Hidden in the trees above Buxton, this striking iron cross is steeped in local history and great for a mid-hike breather.
Grin Low Country Park – Woodland trails and limestone grassland with a hint of mystery.
Trackside Taproom – Home of Buxton Brewery and a brilliant spot to fuel up after a long day’s walk.
Pavilion Gardens – A perfect spot for a brew and nosey around the gift shop mid-walk.
Things to do nearby
Buxton Pavilion Gardens – Ideal for a post-walk chill or cake stop
Buxton Museum & Art Gallery – Small, free, and surprisingly brilliant
The Crescent & Thermal Spa – Fancy a soak in some thermal waters? You’ve earned it.
Getting to the starting point
By train: Direct services from Manchester Piccadilly (≈1 hr) – Buxton station is a 5-min walk from the route start.
By bus: Hop on the 199 Skyline from Stockport or the 58 from Macclesfield.
Following the route
I use komoot and OS Maps for offline navigation. To follow the full route step-by-step on komoot, click this link here or download the GPX file and upload it to your preferred app.
How to extend your adventure
Got more in the legs? You can easily tag on the Dragon’s Back ridge by continuing west from Solomon’s Temple. It adds around 4 miles and takes you up into wild limestone country.
Is this walk suitable for beginners?
If you’re happy walking for 4–5 hours and don’t mind a few hills, this route’s a yes. The trails are clear and easy to follow, but comfy boots are a must.
When’s the best time to do this walk?
Late spring to early autumn is ideal, with longer days and drier trails. That said, this one’s a year-rounder with decent weatherproofs — just expect a few muddy sections in winter.
Good to knows
Public toilets at Pavilion Gardens
Picnic spots aplenty near Solomon’s Temple
Dog-friendly, but keep leads handy near livestock
