The Dragon's Back from Buxton Brewery (12.5 Miles, Moderate)

The Dragon's Back - the apt name for the combined, stegosaurus-like ridges of Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill. It's about as spectacular as the scenery gets this side of the Peak District. And best of all it's within hiking distance of the delightful Buxton Brewery.

It's worth pointing out that the climb over Packhorse Hill involves a slight scramble, which is avoidable if that's not your thing.

Besides conquering the Dragon, we'll also venture through the gorgeous Deep Dale valley, checking out a couple of interesting caves along the way, as well as passing by the infamous "Blue Lagoon" quarry pool.

After the hike we'll retire to the Trackside brewery bar for a celebratory drink or two.

Starting point

Trackside - Buxton Brewery:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TpKkQBFJQZqagEdV9

The brewery opens for breakfast at 9:30am so arrive early if you fancy a bite or a brew (of either kind).

Parking

There's free parking outside the brewery although I recommend car sharing as I don't want us taking up all their spaces.

Public Transport

There are regular trains to Buxton from Stockport. The brewery is accessible via the Buxton Buzz 185 bus route, getting off at Fairfield. Otherwise it's a 30 minute walk from Buxton Market Place

Dogs

Well behaved dogs are welcome on the walk and in the brewery afterwards.

What to bring

Please bring a packed lunch, water and appropriate clothing/footwear for the weather and terrain.

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DISCLAIMER

Please acknowledge the following:
• The walk is entirely free of charge. You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses.
• Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part).
• Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself.
• Walk distances can be up to 15 miles or more and we can be out for as long as 5-7 hours.
• We usually stop for a packed lunch and pop in to a country pub for a post or mid-hike drink.

Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section!

Here's a guide to the difficult rating:

• Easy - Short distance, less than ten miles and mostly flat. Suitable for anyone capable of a brisk stroll.

• Moderately Easy - Shortish distance, around ten miles, some gentle hills. For those who walk regularly but don't have too much hiking experience.

• Moderate - Between ten and twelve miles, a few decent hills with potentially steep sections. For those with some hiking experience.

• Moderately Challenging - Longer distance, twelve miles or over with lots of hills. Suitable for hikers who enjoy being out for most of the day.

• Challenging - Around fifteen miles or more, with hills, mountains and maybe the odd scramble. For experienced hikers who like pushing themselves.

• Hard - Long distance, sometimes over twenty miles, with mountains and difficult terrain. Only suitable for fit, experienced hikers.

IMPORTANT
Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organised by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is not a business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone. By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer.