Classic Peak District Walks
A week of Classic Peak District Walks spanning the rugged remoteness of the Dark Peak to the tranquil lowlands of the White Peak. We explore some of the areas best walking and delve into the social and natural history that has shaped the area.
Beyond the Edge are one of the UKs most experienced providers of mountain experiences and courses. All of our team are both hugely experienced and highly qualified and will make the week both fun, friendly and highly informative. We take great pride in the very high percentage of individuals who return for further adventures and courses.
Whilst in no way compulsory, we often try and eat together in the evening and after dinner maybe enjoy a chat about the local area or inspire ourselves with tales from overseas adventures.
As our team are also top class instructors we are happy to help you learn some navigation or other skills as we go along.
Classic Peak District Walks – Course Format
We meet on the Sunday evening to say hello and make sure everyone is ready and raring to go for the Monday. Over dinner we get to know one another and discuss the week and of course the all important weather!
In outline:
Day 1 – After looking at the weather and a quick session on equipment and emergency procedures we hatch our plan for the day. We often try and start in the Dark Peak. Perhaps heading up the Derwent river to the moors above the trio of dams made famous by the Dam Busters and their bouncing bombs. As with all days we take some time to examine the social and natural history of the area. By the end of the week you will be able to tell rabbit poo from mountain hare poo!
Day 2 – Depending on the weather, this is often another day exploring the Dark Peak. Either looking at some of the many aircraft wrecks that dot Kinder Scout and Bleaklow or a more esoteric walk taking in a quieter side of the Dark Peak.
Day 3 – We try and transition gently to the White Peak by mixing the two today. The photogenic Castleton ring which takes in part of the Limestone way before heading over Mam Tor (Mother Tor, so named as it has spawned many little hills on its slopes!) and down the Great ridge to Lose hill. A fascinating lesson in geology (if you are interested) mixed with an Iron age hill fort and great views.
Day 4 – Often a slightly easier day as we head down to Chatsworth. If you want to head inside and look around we will wave you goodbye and see you in the evening after you have strolled back to the hotel. For those that choose to continue, we make use of the beautiful grounds and deer park created by world famous head gardener Capability Brown and take in some long distance views of the house before sneaking in a touch of Gritstone as we head back along the famous climbing edges of Curbar and Froggatt.
Day 5 – With our last day it’s often hard to decide where to go. We could step back in time and explore the legends of Robin Hood, with Little Johns grave in Hathersage church yard and his hideout high on the cliffs of Stanage. We could head for our secret little nature reserve and look for arriving warblers, hunt for Orchids or flocks of gathering Fieldfare (depending on the month). Or, explore the plague village of Eyam and its ancient stone circles on the moor that shares its name. The choice is not quite endless, but there is certainly no shortage of options.
Course Details
- Location: Peak District
- Cost: from £825 full board
- Duration: 5 days
- Ratio: 1:8
- Level: Introduction
More Information
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Bespoke Dates and Locations
We only offer this itinerary on a bespoke basis. If there are two or more of you that would like a guided Peak District walking holiday, please contact the office and we will arrange some dates and a location to suit your diary.
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Meeting Point
The course will meet at 7pm in the hotel in Grindleford. Grindleford has good bus and train links with Sheffield and good train links to Manchester. There is ample free parking at the hotel.
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Equipment Required
A full kit list with recommendations as to what works best for Peak District walks is contained in the Joining Instructions. These also contain a host of helpful tips and links to articles and videos to help you get the most out of the course.
We can provide maps and a compass, please just let us know if you require this. -
Fitness Level
You certainly don’t have to be super fit to enjoy this walking adventure. Average fitness is all that is required. We spend between five and seven hours walking each day, and there are usually options to shorten the days if required.
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Accommodation Options
Classic Peak District walks is offered as full board with en suite accommodation on a twin share basis. We base ourselves in a comfortable hotel in the village of Grindleford. A single supplement is £160.
FAQs
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How do I book ?
The best way is via this webpage. Choose the date from the options on the above and then submit your booking and pay the deposit.
For bespoke events get in touch first so we can check diaries and if required give you a quote. Get in touch by either calling the office on 01142 631 155 or emailing us.
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Does the course include accommodation ?
Yes!
The
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Children, Parking, Dogs, COVID and everything else...
You will find all of the most frequently asked questions and their answers on our FAQ webpage
