The Roaches & Lud's Church - Dog Friendly - Peak District

Join us on 28 March 2026 for a classic Peak District adventure exploring Hen Cloud, Lud’s Church and The Roaches.

This dog-friendly guided walk is led by Hill & Moorland Leader Alex, accompanied by Leia, and offers a spectacular journey through some of the area’s best-loved landscapes. We begin at Roaches Tea Rooms & Restaurant (ST13 8TY), where facilities are available before and after the walk. From here, we head straight into the hills with a steep but rewarding ascent of Hen Cloud. This early climb sets the tone for the day, providing wide-reaching views across the Staffordshire Moorlands and towards the deeper heart of the Peak District. From Hen Cloud, we descend into woodland before entering the atmospheric chasm of Lud’s Church. This deep, moss-covered cleft is one of the most mysterious places in the National Park, steeped in folklore, history and tales of secret gatherings. It’s a highlight of the route and a memorable spot for photos and exploration. We then make our way onto the iconic gritstone ridgeline of The Roaches, a dramatic edge known for its sweeping views, striking rock formations and popularity with climbers. On clear days, Staffordshire and Derbyshire stretch out beautifully on both sides of the ridge. This section is more defined underfoot, but can be busy with other walkers, so awareness is important if you have a nervous dog. Terrain & Technical Notes

The day includes a mix of steep ascents, steady tracks and uneven hill paths. Some wooded sections may be muddy, slippery or boggy after rain, and there are several stiles and squeeze stiles to negotiate. We also briefly cross country lanes and walk beside a busier road for a short distance. The final mile follows a quiet lane used primarily for parking. Route Summary Distance: Approx. 8 miles (based on ascent/time) Total Ascent: 1570 ft / 479 m Level: Moderate Time: 08:45 – 15:30 Start/Finish: Roaches Tea Rooms, Upper Hulme Ethels: Hen Cloud, The Roaches Price: £25 This guided walk is perfect for anyone wanting to experience the gritstone edges and legendary features that make the Peak District so special. Expect big views, rich history and a friendly, supportive atmosphere throughout.