The best walks and hikes in the East Midlands

The East Midlands offers a vast network of nearly 15,000 hiking trails. This includes a diverse range of options, from gentle strolls through ancient woodlands to challenging ascents in the Peak District National Park.

Yes, the East Midlands has over 7,500 easy hiking routes perfect for beginners or families. Areas like Ladybower & the Derwent Dam loop offer relatively flat paths with beautiful scenery. You can also find gentle walks in places like Attenborough Nature Reserve or Abbey Park in Leicester.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the East Midlands, particularly the Peak District, offers routes with significant elevation gain. Consider the Kinder Low, Kinder Downfall & Grindslow Clough loop from Edale, which covers over 16 km with considerable ascent, or the Kinder Scout Circular Walk for expansive moorland views and rugged terrain.

The East Midlands is home to several notable long-distance paths. These include the 147-mile Viking Way through the Lincolnshire Wolds, the 100-mile Leicester Round exploring the countryside, and the 105-mile Robin Hood Way in Nottinghamshire, which immerses you in the legends of Sherwood Forest.

The region boasts numerous scenic viewpoints, especially within the Peak District. You can enjoy panoramic vistas from Mam Tor summit, known as the 'Shivering Mountain,' or from Hollins Cross, a mountain pass offering extensive views. The Mam Tor and the Great Ridge Circular route is particularly renowned for its prominent ridge walks with stunning scenery.

Yes, many popular routes in the East Midlands are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Mam Tor, Lose Hill & Hope loop from Castleton, or the Kinder Reservoir, Kinder Downfall & Kinder Low loop from Bowden Bridge, both offering diverse landscapes.

The East Midlands is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 34,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from the dramatic gritstone edges of the Peak District to the tranquil rolling hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds, and the well-maintained paths that cater to all ability levels.

Yes, you can find routes that feature waterfalls, particularly in the Peak District. The Kinder Reservoir, Kinder Downfall & Kinder Low loop from Bowden Bridge includes Kinder Downfall, which is a significant waterfall, especially impressive after heavy rain or during winter.

Many areas in the East Midlands, especially within the Peak District, have good public transport links to popular starting points for hikes. Towns like Castleton and Edale, which are gateways to routes like the Mam Tor, The Great Ridge & Castleton loop, are often accessible by train or bus, making them convenient for hikers without a car.

Absolutely. The East Midlands is rich in natural and historical landmarks. Along your hikes, you might encounter significant natural monuments like Mam Tor summit, Kinder Low Trig Point, or the dramatic Winnats Pass. The Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site also offers walks through historic industrial landscapes.

The East Midlands offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and milder temperatures, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Autumn showcases stunning foliage, particularly in areas like Sherwood Forest and the Peak District. Even winter can be beautiful, especially with a dusting of snow on the higher peaks, though conditions can be more challenging.

Yes, some routes provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Frogatt, Curbar and White Edge Red Deer Circular Walk is specifically known for its chances to see red deer. Additionally, nature reserves like Attenborough Nature Reserve are havens for birdwatching and other wildlife.