If you’re looking for a classic Peak District hike that combines moorland, gritstone rock features and valley views, the Grindsbrook Clough Circular from Edale is a must. This 10km moderate route begins in the village of Edale, the official start of the Pennine Way and one of the most popular hiking bases in the Peak District. Climb the rocky path of Grindsbrook Clough onto the vast expanse of Edale Moor before descending down Crowden Clough to return via the Pennine Way. Check out all the route details and download the map below.
At a Glance
Difficulty: Moderate - generally good paths but Grindsbrook Clough is rocky with large steps and the path down Crowden Clough can get slippy in wet weather
Distance: 10.2km/6.3miles
Total Ascent: 481m
Est Time: 4+ hours not including rest stops
Starting location: Parking in Edale either at the main car park or the train station
Facilities: Edale has public toilets, a cafe, pubs and a campsite
Dog friendly: Yes but beware of livestock and keep them on a lead
Grindsbrook Clough Circular Walk from Edale
Starting the Walk from Edale
Edale is a popular base for hikers in the Peak District and the official starting point of the Pennine Way. From the village, head under the railway bridge and follow Mary’s Lane, passing the campsite, a cafe and The Old Nag’s Head pub until you reach a small bridge crossing Grinds brook. Once across, follow the clear footpath along the treeline and through the gate at the end to reach the valley ahead.
This gentle start gives you a chance to warm up your legs and enjoy the peaceful Edale valley before the more challenging section of Grindsbrook Clough begins.
Climbing Grindsbrook Clough
As you gain height, with Grinds Brook below you to your left, the path becomes rockier and the scenery more dramatic. The path follows the course of Grinds Brook, gradually narrowing as the valley walls rise around you. Expect a mix of rocky steps, uneven ground and if it has been raining, you might need to navigate an easy crossing of the brook.
Grindsbrook Clough is one of Edale’s most popular routes onto the Kinder plateau, offering a real sense of adventure From the base, it can look intimidating and like there isn’t a path however there is a clear path to follow with some light scrambling as you climb higher. The final section of the ascent involves a short but fun scramble over gritstone rocks; you shouldn’t really need to use your hands but if this makes you feel more confident and secure then definitely use them! The path is rocky with lots of steps and good footwear is essential, especially after rain, as the rocks can be slippery.
When you reach the top, take a moment to catch your breath and enjoy the views back down the valley towards Edale.
Crossing Edale Moor and Exploring the Gritstone Formations
Once on Edale Moor, the landscape opens up into an expanse of heather and peat. Take a left-ish path from the top (consult your chosen map/route here to ensure you are going the right way across the moorland) and follow the clear path that runs across the moor. You’ll pass fascinating gritstone rock formations carved by centuries of wind and rain. These strange outcrops are perfect for a quick photo stop or a well-earned snack break.
On a clear day, you’ll have panoramic views across the Dark Peak and down towards the Hope Valley and even across to Mam Tor and The Great Ridge. This is an open section and on a windy day, it can get vrey cold very quickly as you are exposed to the elements. Consider layering up here in the Borg Zip Through Fleece and a pair of thermal leggings to keep you nice and warm.
Descending Crowden Clough
After a short walk along the edge of Edale Moor. you’ll reach a section of flat stones to cross that marks Crowden Clough. It’s likely that there will be water in it and after heavy rain then it can be a trickier crossing. You’ll want to check your route again for this bit to make sure you’re at the top of Crowden Clough as from here you have a couple of options:
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Option A - there is a Grade 1 scramble directly over and down the waterfall. It is much harder scrambling down it than it is scrambling up so only do this if you know the route already or are confident with your scrambling ability.
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Option B - take the bypass path to the right of Crowden Clough that avoids the scramble completely.
After crossing over the rocky slabs, there are two paths; a higher path and a lower path. Both are fine to take but if you choose the higher one then look out for a steep path cutting off downhill to your left. This is the bypass path that traces the side of Crowden Clough and provides a much safer alternative. This path is quite steep and can also get slippery but it’s much quicker than the scramble and will take you to rejoin the main path lower down. This is where the terrain levels out and all you have to do is follow the path alongside the brook.
On a sunny day, you might want to cool yourself down in one of the many waterfall pools located along this section. They aren’t massive but still refreshing! Continue following Crowden Brook all the way to Upper Booth and the farm there.
Walking from Upper Booth back to Edale via the Pennine Way
From Upper Booth, head through the farm yard and turn left to join the Pennine Way, which leads you back towards Edale. This final stretch is a relaxing finish to the walk, following a clear track and along paved path sections. As you approach Edale again, the village pub or café will no doubt be calling your name; the perfect place to celebrate completing this classic Peak District circular walk.
Grindsbrook Clough from Edale - download the route
Download the Ordnance Survey route and map here.
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Starting point in Edale either at the main car park or the train station
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Bridge crossing Grinds Brook
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The start of the rocky ascent up Grindsbrook Clough
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The top of Grindsbrook Clough
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Location of Crowden Tower - either take the scramble down or the bypass path around the side
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Upper Booth where you join the Pennine Way back to Edale
Komoot App
Have you ever tried Komoot? Komoot allows you to access routes planned by others or plan your own which you can then download to your phone to follow while you are out. Komoot is free to join and access and you can find the route for his walk here.
Parking in Edale
There are two car parks in Edale; the main village car park and an additional one at the train station. Edale is a very popular place for walking so during peak times it’s best to arrive as early as possible.
Edale Car Park cost
The main car park in Edale has space for 138 cars and is a coin only machine. You can also pay via the PayByPhone app. The location number for the app is 806749. I recommend paying before you arrive as internet signal on some phone networks is weak here.
Parking here costs £6 for over 4 hours (correct 2025).
Edale Train Station parking cost
There are limited spaces here for 20 cars and is pay and display. It costs £6.80 for over 4 hours and payment is by card or cash (correct 2025).
Is there public transport to Edale?
Yes; Edale is very well connected by public transport,making it easy to reach without a car. There’s a train station in Edale on the Manchester to Sheffield Line, with regular services running in both directions throughout the day. The journey takes around 40 minutes from Manchester or 35 minutes from Sheffield.
Bus services are more limited, so the train is by far the most convenient option.
Safety and Navigation Tips
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In poor visibility, navigation on Edale Moor can be tricky, so a map, compass or GPS is recommended. Make sure you have the route on you in one form or another before you set off
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Mobile signal is patchy in some parts of the cloughs.
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Check the weather forecast and avoid scrambling routes in wet or icy conditions.
For additional UK outdoor adventures, wild swimming, hiking routes and more, check my other blog posts here on MY URBAN TRAIL and follow me @Wild_0utdoors on Instagram.
Happy adventuring!
Izzy