The best walks and hikes around Chesterfield

Yes, there are over 250 hiking routes to explore around Chesterfield. The trails range from easy, family-friendly strolls in local parks to more challenging hikes on the edge of the Peak District, offering plenty of variety for all fitness levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the serene waterside walks around the reservoirs and canals, and the beautiful ancient woodlands, which are especially stunning when the bluebells are out in spring.

Chesterfield is excellent for circular walks. A great moderate option is the Barlow Brook Stone Bridge – View of Barlow Fish Ponds loop from Unstone Green, which is about 5.2 miles (8.4 km) and offers lovely countryside views. Many routes around the local parks and reservoirs are also loops.

Many trails in and around Chesterfield are dog-friendly, especially in open spaces like Holmebrook Valley Park and along the Chesterfield Canal towpath. However, when walking near the Linacre Reservoirs or farmland, you may encounter livestock, so it's important to keep your dog on a lead in these areas.

Absolutely. For a short and accessible walk, the Hiking loop from Staveley is a great choice. At just under 3 miles (4.6 km) on mostly flat terrain, it's perfect for a relaxed family outing.

The Chesterfield Canal towpath offers miles of peaceful, flat walking. A good section to explore is the Bilby Lane Bridge loop from Tapton. This 9-mile (14.6 km) route follows the canal and surrounding paths, giving you a great sense of the waterway's history and wildlife.

Yes, for rewarding views over the Derbyshire countryside, try the View of Chesterfield – Stubbing Wood Bluebell Walk loop from Barrow Hill Roundhouse. This moderate hike has some elevation gain that opens up panoramic vistas, including a great viewpoint of Chesterfield itself.

Chesterfield's location on the edge of the Peak District National Park makes it a great base for exploring the park's eastern side. You can drive to popular starting points for the gritstone edges and moorland trails. For public transport options, local bus services connect Chesterfield to various villages within the park, providing access to trailheads.

The area is rich with woodland trails. The Siddall Walk Woodland – Siddall Walk loop from Old Whittington is a lovely 4.5-mile (7.3 km) easy walk that takes you through quiet, wooded areas, perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll.

Several local spots are highly regarded by walkers.

Linacre Reservoirs is a popular favorite, offering beautiful, well-maintained paths around a trio of reservoirs set in a wooded valley.

Holmebrook Valley Park is another top choice, a large country park with a lake, meadows, and excellent views from its higher points.

For a long-distance, mostly flat route, many people enjoy the Trans Pennine Trail which passes near the town.

Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, the Forest Footbridge – Bilby Lane Bridge loop from Chesterfield is an 8.6-mile (13.8 km) route that explores the countryside and waterways. For a true long-distance trek, you can also look into the Chesterfield Round Walk, a 34-mile trail that encircles the town.

A great option for this is the Woodland Pathway – Linacre Reservoirs Entrance loop from Brampton. This 7-mile (11.2 km) moderate hike takes you through beautiful woodlands and along the scenic Linacre Reservoirs, offering the best of both environments.