Peak District circular walk: Win Hill, Crook Hill, Bamford Edge (14 miles)
Details
The Peak District has a way of making every hill feel like the edge of an old story. Ancient paths weave through quiet valleys, winds sweep across open moorland, and the dark waters of Ladybower reflect cliffs that have watched over travellers for centuries. It's a landscape where legends seem only half-forgotten, and every summit rewards those willing to earn the view.
Join us for a challenging but unforgettable circular adventure through some of the Peak District's most iconic scenery. We'll climb the unmistakable slopes of Win Hill, wander beneath the rugged edges of Crook Hill, and stand high on Bamford Edge as the evening light transforms the valley below.
As the sun begins to set, the reservoirs glow with shades of gold and copper, offering a fitting finale to a day of hills, woodland, open moors, and sweeping panoramas. Whether you come for the challenge, the views, or simply the company of fellow walkers, this is a route that leaves lasting memories long after the boots come off.
📸 Featured photo of this event:
- Ladybower Reservoir viewed from Bamford Edge by Neil Theasby is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
📍 Meeting Location & Time
- Meeting Location: Bamford train station (just outside, on Station Rd, S33 0BN)
- Link to Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zk2uXCvs2tHvATKC7
- Link to What3words: https://what3words.com/reflector.incensed.material
- Meeting Time: 10:50 AM
- Start Time: 11:00 AM
🥾 Walk Overview
- Distance: ~14 miles (22 km)
- Elevation Gain: ~2,200 ft (700 mt)
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- Route Type: Circular
🐇🐢 Pace & Fitness Requirements
This is a challenging, long walk best suited for those with a good level of physical fitness. To keep the group moving together, we won't be able to wait for extended periods if anyone falls behind.
You are entirely welcome to walk at your own pace! However, if you find it difficult to keep up with the group's speed, we highly recommend downloading the route map in advance so you can easily take a shortcut if needed.
⛰️ Route Highlights
- Thornhill Trail
- Parkin Clough
- Win Hill
- Ladybower Reservoir
- Crook Hill
- Bamford Edge
📲 Route Links
🚆 Public Transport
- direct trains from/to Sheffield
- direct trains from/to Manchester
🌦️ Weather & Clothing
The weather on the hills can be highly variable, windy, and cold — even during the summer months.
Please wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip to handle muddy and slippery terrain. Avoid flat trainers or jeans.
Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions:
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Insulating mid-layers
- Waterproof outer layers
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)
- Sufficient food and water for the entire day
- Waterproof jacket and warm layers
- Sun protection (suncream, sunglasses)
- A comfortable backpack
- Optional: hiking poles, hat, camera, torch (or headlamp), 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 weather conditions are unsafe, or if the walk leaders have an unexpected emergency and can no longer make it. Updates will be posted in the comments, so please enable email notifications for any changes.
📌 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.