DRAGON’S BACK WALK (5 MILES)

Want to feel like you’ve spent the day in Middle Earth? This route’s for you.

Start: Hollinsclough, SK17 0RH

Distance: 5 miles

Ascent: 1,000 feet

Duration: allow approx. 2 hours

Navigation: follow step-by-step

Starting and finishing in the pretty hamlet of Hollinsclough, this walk has it all: magnificent views across the Staffordshire and Peak District wilds, paths criss-crossed with ancient stone walls, and summits galore… taking you through the breath-taking landscapes of the famous Dragon’s Back over the tops of Chrome Hill (424m), before meandering back up Parkhouse Hill (360m).

From here, you descend through untouched farmland and idyllic country lanes to make the return back to Hollinsclough.

With challenging terrain in places, our route to the summit of Parkhouse Hill should only be taken on if you’re confident at scrambling. There’s free street parking in the village but spaces are limited to so plan ahead if you’re arriving by car.

The views of the landscapes surrounding are sure to take your breath away at every part of this route. But the real highlight for us came in the form of a wonderfully idyllic pitstop, The Honesty Shop.

This perfectly stocked café-come-hut-come-shop has all your refuel needs covered, with hot drinks, sweet treats and fresh local produce aplenty. The Honesty Shop has no staff and relies solely on the good nature of passers-by to do the right thing - a comforting reminder that we were far away from the hustle of the city.

The walk can be shorted by cutting out the final ascent over Parkhouse Hill or extended by following your nose to the summit of High Wheeldon.

Another option is to start at The Quiet Woman pub in Earl Sterndale, not far from Buxton. Unsurprisingly, the many routes surrounding the limestone reef knolls of Chrome and Parkhouse Hills make for magnificent views throughout.

WINTER HILL AND RIVINGTON PIKE CIRCULAR

Enjoy this short ascent up to two iconic Lancashire landmarks

Start: Rivington Hall Car Park, Bolton, BL6 7SD

Distance: 6.15 miles

Duration: 2-3 hours

Elevation: 1,300 feet

Navigation: follow our route here

This Lancashire walk takes you to two incredible viewpoints in one route. You begin your ascent up to Winter Hill via Rivington Country Park, taking you 1,496 feet high up to the summit.

While there are a variety of routes to choose from, our favourite is this 6 mile walk which takes in arguable the best views and scenery across Bolton, Wigan and the West Pennines Moors.

After a brisk hike from Rivington Pike you'll soon approach Winter Hill, which reaches an elevation of 1,496 feet. The views from here are nothing short of breathtaking, especially during the winter months when the landscape is adorned with a pristine layer of snow. The panoramic vista extends as far as the eye can see, with the city of Manchester on one side and the rolling hills of Lancashire on the other.

What is Winter Hill?

After reaching the almost dystopian summit of Winter Hill, you may be left thinking “what on earth is this place?”. I know we certainly were.

While the reality of Winter Hill is a little less glamorous than my imagination led me to believe, the transmitting station is a working broadcasting and telecommunications site and is responsible for bringing you all your favourite local TV channels.

Rivington

Just over the border between Greater Manchester and Lancashire, Rivington is a magical landscape where mysterious ruins are nestled between magnificent reservoirs, moor tops and woodland aplenty.

It’s a place that’s packed with wholesome things to do, whether that’s exploring Rivington Terraced Gardens or going on an aerial adventure at Go Ape. The area is so stunning it was even dubbed "the Little Lake District” by the Victorians.

good-to-knows

amenities

• The pike snack shack

You’ll pass this quaint little coffee shop at the base of Rivington Pike, offering a selection of hot and cold beverages and snacks.

Location: Rivington Pike Cottage, Horwich, Bolton, BL6 6RU

• The Tea Room at Rivington

For a delightful cup of tea and some light bites, visit "The Tea Room at Rivington," nestled in a picturesque spot near Rivington Hall Barn.

Location: Rivington Hall Barn, Rivington Lane, Rivington, Bolton, BL6 7SB

• The Rivington PUB and grill

Before or after your hike, stop by "The Rivington," a charming pub near Rivington Pike known for its cosy atmosphere and hearty fare.

Location: Rivington Lane, Horwich, Bolton, BL6 7SB

• GO APE

Located close to Bolton and only 30-minutes from Manchester, Go Ape Rivington features exhilarating 13-metre-high platforms, beautiful country views and a zip wire over the reservoir.

Location: Great House Barn, Rivington, Horwich, BL6 7SB

Parking Options

Rivington Pike Car Park

Location: Rivington Pike Car Park, Rivington Lane, Horwich, Bolton, BL6 7SB

Public Transport

If you prefer or require to travel via public transport, you can reach Rivington Pike and Winter Hill by bus or train:

Bus:

• The 125 and 575 bus routes have stops near Rivington Pike.

• Check the latest bus schedules and routes to plan your journey.

Train:

• Take a train to Horwich Parkway station.

• From there, you can catch a bus or even walk to Rivington Pike.

Fancy giving it a go? Follow our route here

WINNATS PASS AND ODIN MINE WALK

One of the best Peak District walks just a short drive from Manchester

Start: Castleton Visitor Centre, S33 8WN

Distance: 5.02 miles

Elevation: 900 feet

Duration: allow approx. 2 hours

Navigation: follow the route here

This walk takes you high above Winnats Pass and around Castleton, meaning you can take in this amazing Peak District village from all angles. The start of the route leans towards the challenging side, taking you up a steep and rocky path straight up to Winnats Pass, so consider if this one’s for you before heading out.

The first ascent is steep with scrambling required. Thankfully, a kind soul has left a climbers rope tied to a gate post which gives you all the leverage you need. We’ve been meaning to give this one a go for a while, and it didn’t disappoint.

The route starts near Castleton Visitor Centre where you’ll find a shop, cafe and toilets… among a gorgeous array of nearby pubs, eateries and cafes.

The car park is pay and display, but there’s street parking available nearby (be aware these fill up quickly during peak hours, so we recommend getting down early).

Once atop Winnats Pass, you’ll follow a trail that leads close to the boundary wall and takes you along the top of the pass. Be sure to stop and take in the views on this part of the walk, we were blown away watching the tiny cars winding their way through the Way.

From here, you’ll head along a footpath in the direction of Mam Tor, before taking a detour to Odin Mine: a disused mine thought to be in use since around 1260. The landscape surrounding makes for great exploring, leading you to the collapsed road constructed beneath Mam Tor.

Once you reach Treak Cliff Cavern, look out for signs that tell you about the history of the area. Winnats Pass and the surrounding environment was once under a tropical sea, making the site protected by law due to the many fossils of sea creatures which lived here over 350 million years ago.

The valley was created by melting glaciers which gradually dissolved, creating streams which flowed through and under cracks in the rock. One of these streams created a large underground cave system which eventually collapsed, leaving Winnats Pass you see today!

With so much to see in such a short walk, this is undoubtedly one of our favourite walks when visiting Derbyshire.

Fancy giving it a go? Follow the walk here

GIDDY EDGE WALK

Walk on the wild side along Matlock’s ‘Giddy Egde’

Take on a whirlwind adventure through the heart-stopping heights of Giddy Edge on High Tor in Matlock, while also indulging in the romance of Lover's Walk in Matlock Bath. Prepare to have your adrenaline pumping and your heartstrings tugged as we explore these two enchanting highlights in one route.

Start: Matlock Town Centre, DE4

Distance: 5.41 miles

Duration: 2.5 hours

Elevation: 1,175 feet

Navigation: follow the route here

Giddy Edge, High Tor

Giddy Edge… the name alone sends shivers down your spine! This exhilarating path is not for the faint of heart, but for the adventurous souls seeking an adrenaline rush — this one’s for you. As you walk along the narrow cliff edge, take in the awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Derbyshire Dales and don't forget to capture those Instagram-worthy moments!

Along the way, keep an eye out for the famed rock formations, including the legendary "Cromford Tooth." Rumor has it that touching it brings good luck, but be cautious, for superstitions and precipices don't always mix well!

Lover's Walk, Matlock Bath

Now that you've conquered Giddy Edge, it's time to shift gears and embrace the romantic ambiance of Lover's Walk in Matlock Bath. This picturesque riverside path, flanked by lush greenery, is perfect for lovebirds or anyone seeking a moment of tranquility. The charming Victorian-style lampposts transport you back in time… but if you’re after a post hike snack, the nearby Greggs should bring you back to 2023 in no time.

Attractions not to miss during your visit:

Heights of Abraham

After your adrenaline-fuelled adventure along Giddy Edge, make your way to the Heights of Abraham. This unique hilltop park offers cable car rides that will sweep you up into the clouds, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. It's a perfect opportunity to catch your breath and marvel at the beauty of Matlock below.

Matlock Bath Aquarium

For those fascinated by marine life, a visit to the Matlock Bath Aquarium is a must. Immerse yourself in the captivating world beneath the waves and explore an array of exotic species. From vibrant tropical fish to mesmerizing jellyfish, this aquatic adventure will leave you in awe.

The Fishpond Pub

Walking can make even the hardiest adventurer thirsty, so be sure to stop by The Fishpond Pub. Nestled in the heart of Matlock Bath, this charming establishment serves up a delightful selection of local ales, craft beers, and refreshing beverages. Unwind in their cosy beer garden or warm up by the crackling fireplace on colder days. Cheers to a well-deserved break!

Ready to brave Giddy Egde? Follow the route here

TEGG’S NOSE QUARRY

On the western border of the Peak District National Park lies a patchwork of wild woods, blossom-blanketed meadows, awe-inspiring reservoirs and high crags, making for one of the best circular walks in the Greater Manchester area

Start: Tegg’s Nose Country Park, SK11 0AP

Distance: 4.10 miles

Elevation: 525 feet

Duration: allow approx. 1.5 hours

Navigation: follow our route here

Just outside of Manchester, Tegg’s Nose Country Park represents a spectacular alternative to the Cheshire plain, with wild landscapes comprised of craggy hills, open moorland and dense forest.

Tap into your creative side and let your imagination run free as you meander along woodland paths. Mythological stories link the name Tegg’s Nose back to early Norse settlers — perfect for those wanting to feel like they’re half the world away… while being just down the road.

From the visitor centre, stone walls and sturdy barns add to the dramatic character of the steeply sided valleys as you set off on the trail towards the abandoned quarry. The car park provides an excellent base for numerous walks and throughout the year there are many events taking place at the visitor centre, check them out here.

The best part of this loop is the low-effort high-reward views you’ll be greeted with along the way. Despite the distance clocking up only 4 miles, you don’t have venture far to enjoy exhilarating views over the spectacular Cheshire Plain. On a clear day you may even see Liverpool’s cathedrals and Welsh hills beyond.

Situated on a number of old stone quarries, rock dominates the landscape here — with the industrial heritage of the site firmly on view as you trek across the many paths available.

While it may only be a short route, this trail offers incredible views over the beautiful Cheshire landscape that you just won’t find anywhere else. The route descends from Tegg’s Nose Country Park and skirts along the edge of Macclesfield Forest, offering you the best of both worlds.

For easy-to-follow navigation, head to our Komoot!

DRAGON’S BACK LOOP

Want to feel like you’ve spent the day in Middle Earth? This route’s for you.

Start: Hollinsclough, SK17 0RH

Distance: 5 miles

Ascent: 1,000 feet

Duration: allow approx. 2 hours

Navigation: follow step-by-step

Starting and finishing in the pretty hamlet of Hollinsclough, this walk has it all: magnificent views across the Staffordshire and Peak District wilds, paths criss-crossed with ancient stone walls, and summits galore… taking you through the breath-taking landscapes of the famous Dragon’s Back over the tops of Chrome Hill (424m), before meandering back up Parkhouse Hill (360m).

From here, you descend through untouched farmland and idyllic country lanes to make the return back to Hollinsclough.

With challenging terrain in places, our route to the summit of Parkhouse Hill should only be taken on if you’re confident at scrambling. There’s free street parking in the village but spaces are limited to so plan ahead if you’re arriving by car.

The views of the landscapes surrounding are sure to take your breath away at every part of this route. But the real highlight for us came in the form of a wonderfully idyllic pitstop, The Honesty Shop.

This perfectly stocked café-come-hut-come-shop has all your refuel needs covered, with hot drinks, sweet treats and fresh local produce aplenty. The Honesty Shop has no staff and relies solely on the good nature of passers-by to do the right thing - a comforting reminder that we were far away from the hustle of the city.

The walk can be shorted by cutting out the final ascent over Parkhouse Hill or extended by following your nose to the summit of High Wheeldon.

Another option is to start at The Quiet Woman pub in Earl Sterndale, not far from Buxton. Unsurprisingly, the many routes surrounding the limestone reef knolls of Chrome and Parkhouse Hills make for magnificent views throughout.

You can follow our route step-by-step here.

Fancy having a go? Tag us using #getlostmcr, we love seeing your wild adventures!