Image shared for High Peak Trail: Parsley Hay to High Peak Junction
Countryside Point to point

High Peak Trail: Parsley Hay to High Peak Junction

Walk

Derbyshire

Distance
14.0 mi
Est. time
7h
Difficulty
Medium
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates
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About this walk

Start at the public Parsley Hay car park and join the High Peak Trail heading south-east, keeping on the High Peak branch where the Tissington Trail turns towards Ashbourne. Follow the old railway through Friden and Newhaven Tunnel, then past the Minninglow area towards Hopton. Continue down the former railway inclines to Middleton Top, then past Black Rocks and down Sheep Pasture Incline to the historic workshops at High Peak Junction beside Cromford Canal.

Allow seven hours with breaks for this long one-way day walk. Arrange collection or a return journey in advance; Cromford railway station is beyond the mapped finish and needs an additional walk. The broad shared track has firm gravel and long level stretches, with steep descents on the old inclines. Take care on loose or wet surfaces and around cyclists, carry a torch for the tunnel and bring enough food and water. There are no ridge scrambles, but this is a demanding distance. Parking, toilets and seasonal refreshments are available at Parsley Hay, with further facilities at Middleton Top and High Peak Junction when open. Check current opening times and trail notices. Parsley Hay's main toilets are scheduled for refurbishment from 2 November to 14 December 2026, with accessible and temporary facilities advertised to remain available.

Walk details

County
Derbyshire
Walk type
Point to point
Category
Countryside
Distance
14.0 mi (22.5 km)
Est. time
7h
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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Along the route

5 places
Parsley Hay
Parking · 0.0 mi along
High Peak Trail, Friden
Parking · 2.6 mi along
Drinking Water
Essentials · 11.5 mi along
Badger Barista
Cafe · 12.6 mi along
Drinking Water
Essentials · 12.6 mi along

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