Peak District hike: Bamford to Shatton Moor & Abney Low Circular (11.7 miles)
Details
Venture into the wild heart of the Dark Peak on this captivating circular route that climbs onto the atmospheric Shatton Moor before descending through hidden valleys and ancient landscapes. The walk takes you past the intriguingly named Wolf's Pit and across the prehistoric burial mound of Abney Low, offering sweeping moorland views and a real sense of remoteness. The return journey follows the picturesque River Derwent, where adventurous souls can test their balance on the stepping stones—a delightful challenge in February when the water runs cold and fast! The final stretch traces the Derwent Valley Heritage Trail between Bamford and Hathersage, a gentle riverside path steeped in local history. With a mix of open moorland, woodland, and valley scenery, this route provides a perfect winter escape for those seeking solitude and varied terrain, rewarding hardy walkers with the quintessential Peak District experience.
This walk starts and finishes at Bamford Train Station.
📍 Meeting Location & Time
- Meeting Location: Bamford train station (just outside, on Station Rd, S33 0BN)
- Meeting Time: 09:50 AM
🥾 Walk Overview
- Distance: 11.7 miles (18.8 km)
- Elevation Gain: ~1,650 ft (500 m)
- Duration: about 5 hours 30 mins
- Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
- Route Type: Circular
- Walk Leader: Ben
🐇🐢 Pace & Fitness Requirements
This is a moderate but relatively long walk with a couple of ascents, best suited for those with good fitness and in sound physical condition. You should be comfortable maintaining a steady pace throughout.
⛰️ Route Highlights
- Shatton Moor
- Wolf's Pit
- Abney Low
- Goose Nest Wood
- Derwent Valley Heritage Trail (Bamford to Hathersage section)
📲 Route Links
🚆 Public Transport
- direct trains from/to Sheffield
- direct trains from/to Manchester
🌦️ Weather & Clothing
The weather on the hills can be very changeable, windy, and cold, even in summer. Please wear appropriate hiking boots or shoes with good grip to handle muddy and slippery terrain. Avoid flat trainers or jeans.
Dress in layers to adjust to changing conditions: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers are recommended.
Useful links for weather forecasts:
🎒 What to Bring
- Sturdy walking boots or shoes with good grip (no flat trainers)
- Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing (avoid jeans)
- Enough food and water for the whole day
- Waterproof jacket and warm layers
- A comfortable backpack
- Gloves and woolly hat
- Optional: hiking poles, hat, camera, power bank, phone (or watch) with the route downloaded
🐶 Dogs
Fit and friendly dogs are welcome! Please keep them on a lead near livestock.
📢 Notes
- The route is planned via Komoot and not pre-walked, so expect possible muddy or slippery sections.
- This event may be cancelled or rescheduled if the weather is unsafe — updates will be posted in the comments section, so enable email notifications.
📌 Bookings
- Please only book if you genuinely intend to attend.
- If you reserve a spot but can no longer make it, please cancel your booking or let the organiser know. It only takes a moment to update your booking, and it really helps everyone: the organiser, the walk leader, and your fellow attendees.
⛑️ Disclaimer
You are fully responsible for your own safety, health, fitness, and equipment. The group has no insurance — by RSVPing, you agree to these terms.
📬 Questions?
Feel free to comment below or message the organiser privately.