If you’re looking for a challenging, yet enjoyable hike with your friends, family or by yourself then look no further than the Circular Kinder Scout Walk. Located in the Peak District, this challenging circular moorland walk is dog friendly. Learn the route, where to park and more information about the Kinder Scout circular walk with our guide!
How To Get There
By Train:
If travelling by train, Edale train station is right at the start of the route so is an excellent option for those who don’t drive or those who want a pint after their walk! Below you can find some of the routes to Edale train station from some of the major train stations.
Sheffield – Edale: 32min, No Changes
Manchester Piccadilly – Edale: 43min, No Changes
Leeds – Edale: 1h 38min, 1 change (Manchester Piccadilly)
Liverpool – Edale: 2h 12min, 1 change (Manchester Piccadilly)
By Car:
If travelling by car, you should prepare to drive down some winding routes, with narrow roads. If driving, it is best to prepare your route beforehand as traffic can be issue depending on what times you depart or if you’re planning on travelling during a bank holiday.
Where To Park:
Right next to the train station and the start of the route there is a car park with paid parking. The route takes anywhere from 4-5 hours, so it is recommended you pay for the 10 hours parking which is £6. The payment machine only accepts cash, or you can pay via the PayByPhone app, however there may be limited phone signal in the car park. Blue badge holders can park free in pay and display car parks, as long as badge is displayed, no need to scan. There are public toilets in this car park.
If driving to this car park, put the following address into your sat nav: Edale Car Park – HPBC, Hope Rd, Edale, Hope Valley, S33 7ZQ.
If this car park is full, there is farm that you pass before arriving at the car park which offers all day parking for £5. There is also direct 10-minute walking direct path from here to the start of the route.
Information About Kinder Scout Circular Walk
Throughout the route, the paths are rugged but in a good condition. It is recommended that you have a good fitness level and you’re wearing proper hiking attire and correct footwear. The path is dog friendly as there isn’t any major scrambling, however your dog will need to be on the lead for a few points during the walk, especially during the habitat restoration.
The route is 7.5 miles (12km), which will take you between 4 hours 30 mins to 5 hours 30 mins to complete, depending on how many stops you take. The route offers spectacular views, of the Peak District and protected wildlife including Short Eared Owls and Red Grouse.
There are no bins along the route and BBQ’s and campfires are not permitted.
The Route
Start
The start of the route begins at Edale train station, so as soon as you step off the train the route has begun!
Step 1
As soon as you leave the station, walk through the village, you should pass the Moorland Centre on your right side.
Step 2
Once you spot the Nag’s Head Pub, turn left onto Pennine Way.
Step 3
Follow the path to Upper Booth Farm.
Step 4
Continue to walk alongside the River Noe.
Step 5
Prepare for a steep climb as you begin walking up Jacob’s Ladder. An old packhorse track, once you reach the top you’re awarded with spectacular views.
Step 6
Here you will come off the Pennine Way, taking a path to your right and moving eastwards toward Kinder Plateau.
Step 7
Continue past the Pagoda and the cluster of rocks known as the Wool Packs. Walk past Crowden Tower and follow the path into Grindsbrook.
Step 8
After being treated to splendid views of the Vale of Edale, you continue down the Grindsbook footpath into Edale village, ending back at Edale station!
Post Hike
Once you’ve finished your hike, The Nag’s Head is a lovely pub to stop in for a pint or some well earned grub. With a large beer garden out the back, you can enjoy the sun during the Summer or warm up inside during the Autumn and Winter months.
Recommended Kit (Summer Hiking)
Men’s Gear
Men’s Belardo Short Sleeved T-Shirt
Women’s Gear
Women’s Stretch Kiwi Pro III Shorts
Women’s Dynamic Pro Short Sleeve T-Shirt
Equipment
More Information & Guaranteed For Life
There you have it! Our complete guide to the Kinder Scout Circular Walk. if you need anymore information you can check out the route on the National Trust website here.
Also, remember that if you buy any of our recommended kit or any products, you can guarantee them for life, so that if they ever become damaged, we will replace them for you with no charge. You can find our Guaranteed For Life Register Form here.
Happy Hiking!
