High moors, gritstone edges, and the start of the Pennine Way
Where valley lanes meet wild plateaus — and every route ends with a view.
Edale is a Peak District classic for walking holidays and outdoor adventures. Sitting at the head of the Hope Valley, the village is the official start of the Pennine Way and a launchpad for Kinder Scout’s edges, the Great Ridge to Mam Tor and Lose Hill, and gentler dale paths toward Castleton and Hope. From the station, you can step straight onto Jacob’s Ladder, climb to Kinder Downfall, or stitch together balcony paths with café stops and pub finishes.
Between walks, Edale’s pubs, cafés, and trailhead facilities make it easy to refuel — a small village with big walking on every side.
Why Walk Here
- Official start of the Pennine Way with day-section options.
- Kinder Scout plateaus, Jacob’s Ladder, and Kinder Downfall from the door.
- The Great Ridge: Mam Tor – Hollins Cross – Lose Hill within easy reach.
- Mix of moorland edges, valley meadows, and limestone villages.
- Excellent car-free access on the Hope Valley railway line.
Nearby Trails
- Pennine Way (Edale → Jacob’s Ladder → Kinder) – Iconic start over gritstone edges and peat plateaus.
- Great Ridge: Mam Tor → Hollins Cross → Lose Hill – Classic skyline with constant Hope Valley views.
- Kinder Scout Edge Circuit – Ring the plateau via Grindslow Knoll or Ringing Roger to Kinder Downfall.
- Edale to Castleton via Cave Dale/Winnats (return by bus/train) – Dale walking with limestone drama.
- Derwent & Edale Moors Links – Longer moorland days for experienced walkers.
Outdoor Adventures and Activities
- Ridge and plateau hiking with big panoramas.
- Trail running on the Great Ridge and Kinder edges.
- Photography: sunrise inversions over Edale, sunset from Lose Hill.
- Caving/showcaves and heritage add-ons in nearby Castleton.
