Cosy Pubs and Countryside Walks in the Peak District & Derbyshire

Here, some of the region’s best walks and trails begin right outside the station, meaning you can explore with ease. With strong public transport links connecting you to dramatic reservoirs, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the sweeping landscapes of the National Park, it’s never been easier to pair a day of fresh air with a cosy pub along the way.

Travel from St Pancras Station to Sheffield with East Midlands Rail and changing lines to Northern take a short trip to Grindleford station ready to explore the area on a 6 mile walk around Padley Gorge. Through the picturesque woodland surrounds be sure to pause and admire the nature and wildlife as you take in the cinematic views of the Peak District. Along the path you’ll spot the iconic Higger Tor rock formation until reaching the gate back down to Padley Gorge. After completing the walk, make sure to stop off at The Maynard for a healthy bite to eat surrounded by the comfort of idyllic countryside and historical heritage.

Take on the 8 mile circular walk from the village of Edale across to the windswept moors of the Kinder plateau, which is actually the highest point in the Peak District. This walk takes you along the rocky ravines of Grindsbrook Clough, across the spectacular views before returning to Edale on the final section along the Pennine Way. Refuel in the traditional country inn, The Old Nags Head, filled with authentic character, it is a pub you don’t want to miss, after being featured in the top 20 country pubs in the UK by The Times.

After embarking on a walk from Hathersage there are a range of quaint traditional pubs ready and waiting for you to grab a bite or refreshing drink. The Scotsman’s Pack Inn stands on one of the old tracks leading to Sheffield and the Sheffield Manor Castle, and was a regular destination for the Scottish packmen who sold tweeds to local farmers. Perfect for a post walk pint, after completing the nearby circular routes to Stanage Edge, Padley Gorge and the popular Hathersage Stepping Stones Walk. The pub’s warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it a favourite amongst locals.

Just a hop, skip and jump over the magnificent Millennium walkway from New Mills Central train station lies the historical Torr Vale Mill, one of the earliest and longest-running cotton mills perked on the edge of the River Goyt. Inside the mill, serving a wide variety of pies, toasties, pies and pints is the Torr Vale Tap. A perfect spot to relax before or after, a cosy 5 mile walk that takes you on an expedition around the area’s peaceful nature reserves and key industrial locations.

Getting off the train at the historic spa town of Buxton, you’ll be blessed with beautiful gardens, stunning Georgian and Victorian architecture and a variety of dog friendly pubs and cafes. Walk all the way through the gorgeous pavilion gardens, head towards Temple Road enter Poole’s Carven and Buxton Country Park. Follow the path to the

summit of Grin Low hill and enjoy spectacular views across Buxton on this short, circular walk. Afterwards you can pop into Poole’s Cavern for an underground adventure of the Peak Districts caves or head over to the Old Hall Hotel for a relaxed lunch and cocktail while overlooking the scenic Pavillion Gardens.