Longing for fresh air, wide skies, and the kind of countryside that resets your soul? The Peak District National Park delivers – with gentle trails, sweeping ridges, and peaceful valleys and some of the best Peak District walks for all levels. Whether you are looking for easy walks in the Peak District, family-friendly routes, or circular walks that start and finish in the same spot, we’ve rounded up some of the nicest and most accessible options to explore.
Don’t forget to pack a Nature Valley cereal bar for a little crunchy snack along the way – a delicious treat to enjoy while taking in the scenery.
Dovedale Stepping Stones
Distance: 2 miles
Nearest Parking: Dovedale or Ilam Car Park
Dovedale is one of the most iconic Peak District walks, offering a pocket of adventure tucked between towering limestone cliffs and a winding river. Kids love splashing through shallow water and hopping across the famous stepping stones, while adults can enjoy a gentle stroll along the valley.
This is one of the most family friendly walks in the Peak District, and reaching Dovedale is easiest by car. Once parked, it’s less than half a mile to the stepping stones. If you’re in the mood for a longer adventure, follow the River Dove deeper into the valley for a scenic, flexible extension to your walk. It can get busy during peak times, so visiting outside school holidays offers a more relaxed experienced.
Padley Gorge Woodland Walk
Distance: 2 miles
Nearest Parking: Grindleford Station Car Park
Nearest Train Station: Grindleford
Padley Gorge is ideal if you’re searching for nice walks in the Peak District that combine nature and ease. This shaded woodland trail is perfect for warmer days, offering cool, leafy pathways and plenty of spots for children to explore. Start your walk at the Longshaw café, where you can grab a coffee to begin or look forward to a refreshing drink on your return.
Along the way, you’ll pass waterfalls, mossy woodland and smooth, family-friendly terrain that makes the walk perfect for little adventurers. Set beside the charming village of Grindleford, it’s an accessible choice for a slow weekend wander.
Ladybower Reservoir Circular
Distance: 5 miles
Nearest Parking: Fairholmes Car Park
Ladybower Reservoir offers some of the best circular walks in the Peak District, with calm water, easy trails and huge skies that make it the perfect choice for families and couples. The gentle loop around the reservoir is scenic without being strenuous, making it one of the top easy walks in the Peak District.
Beginning and ending at Fairholmes Visitor Centre, the route is straightforward, accessible, and fully signposted, with toilets and information boards available. Allow around 2.5 hours to enjoy the walk, giving yourself time to stop for views of the historic dam wall and the remains of the Derwent village, flooded in the 1940s. Bike hire is also available for anyone who prefers two wheels over two feet.
Top tip: Pack a Nature Valley cereal bar and a flash of tea to enjoy a mini picnic while soaking up the reservoir views.
Mam Tor Circular Walk
Distance: 3 miles
Nearest Parking: Mam Tor National Trust Car Park
Mam Tor is one of the best Peak District walks for those wanting a manageable climb with big rewards. Offering sweeping views over Hope Valley and Edale, the route balances effort and accessibility beautifully, making it ideal for beginners and families with older children.
The circular trail begins with a steady ascent from the car park. Known as the “Shivering Mountain” due to its loose terrain, Mam Tor requires sensible footwear but the panoramic views from the summit are worth every step.
Stanage Edge Walk
Distance: 4.9 miles
Nearest Parking: Hollin Bank Car Park
Stanage Edge is all about wide landscapes and long horizons, offering one of the most impressive Peak District walks for anyone who loves open moorland and dramatic views. After a short, steep climb, the route levels out along a spectacular ridge before gently descending back to the start point – a rewarding circular walk in the Peak District that’s achievable without being too challenging.
Get Out in Nature
These Peak District walks show just how rewarding it can be to explore at your own pace. Whether it’s easy walks, family-friendly trails, or circular walks in the Peak District, there’s something here for everyone. Pack a Nature Valley cereal bar, take a deep breath, and enjoy the wide skies, rolling hills, and calm rivers – because the best walks are even better with a great snack perfect for enjoying on-the-go.