Nestled in the heart of the Peak District, Edale is the perfect gateway to one of the most breathtaking circular hikes in the UK. This scenic route takes you from Edale Station up to the iconic Mam Tor, passing through the rugged beauty of Back Tor and the rolling ridgeline of Lose Hill. With panoramic views, diverse terrain, and a true sense of adventure, this walk offers everything a hiker could hope for—whether you're a seasoned trekker or simply looking for a rewarding day out in nature.
Follow this route to experience the best of the Peak District’s landscapes, from lush valleys to dramatic ridgelines, all while soaking in the fresh countryside air.
Did You Know?
Edale is the Start of the Pennine Way – One of the UK’s most famous long-distance trails, the Pennine Way, begins in Edale and stretches 268 miles all the way to Scotland.
Mam Tor is Called the 'Shivering Mountain' – Due to its unstable landslides, Mam Tor (meaning "Mother Hill") has earned the nickname the Shivering Mountain, with its lower slopes constantly shifting due to soft shale rock.
Starting Point: N
Once you arrive at Edale Train Station, follow the road down to a path taking a Due South direction. This section is a gentle incline through some fields and up a track before you cross a stream and head up the side of Mam Tor. You'll reach a stile at the road and the footpath hugs the roadside. Be careful of cars here as the corner ahead is very busy and cars pass quite fast. You will see a finger-post sign at the gate for 'Mam Tor' take this track up the steps.
The steps: NN
The steps aren't too bad, be sure to look back and get a glimpse of Lord's Seat behind! Once you make it up the steps, you'll see the trig point ahead. Enjoy the history of this area as you ascend, there is plenty to ready and see!
Mam Tor Summit: NN
On a clear day, the views are amazing. The summit of Mam Tor is home to the remains of a Bronze Age and Iron Age hillfort, once used by ancient settlers as a defensive stronghold. Enjoy some of the best panoramic views in the Peak District, looking over Hope Valley, Edale, and beyond!
Steps down: NN
After a lovely break at the summit, you'll enjoy some gentle steps down from the summit of Mam Tor, and ahead you'll see the rest of your route! It's a lovely long stretch at this height with not too much up (except Back Tor...) so enjoy the gentle ridge walk and enjoy views either side of you.
The path junction: NN
There is an obvious junction in the path about half way, just before you head up Back Tor. Look back at the view of Mam tor here, it's amazing. This junction is also where you'll return to on your way back down, to turn off the path.
Back Tor: NN
This is a short but sharp incline up to Back Tor. The rock is a bit steppy and loose but it's manageable. Once you reach the top, enjoy the rocky outcrop and views of Edale below. You'll probably enjoy a coffee break on the flat summit here!
Lose Hill: NN 167 713
As you leave Back Tor, you'll continue along the path for a steady section before a gentle incline through the gate and up to lose hill. This is the last summit of the route so enjoy these views of Castleton before you head back to the path junction below Back Tor.
Path Junction Descent: NN
Once you get back to the path junction, take the North path downhill, you'll see the route is marked and you have a could view of it from here before you head down it. As you reach the roadside, follow the route over the road and cross the railway before heading left onto the track. This route passes through some beautiful cottages before you reach the Ramblers pub. Edale Station is 200 metres down the road.
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