Image shared for Rudyard Lake Circuit near Leek
Countryside Circular

Rudyard Lake Circuit near Leek

Staffordshire

Distance
4.5 mi
Est. time
2h 30m
Difficulty
Medium
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

Start at the Dam Head pay-and-display car park, reached from Lake Road in Rudyard, near Leek. Follow the public path to the dam and cross the overflow footbridge to join the former railway track on the east shore. Walk north beside the miniature railway and continue along the broad old track bed to the north-end car park. Turn beneath the bridge onto the west-side Staffordshire Way.

The return climbs through fields around Cliffe Park, where the hall is private. Keep to the marked path between the stone gateposts and respect the property boundary. Continue through Reacliffe Wood and past the sailing club, then follow the lakeside lane past the chalets. As the lane turns inland, use the signed footpath behind the houses, then the public paths through Rudyard back to Dam Head. Look for the yellow waymarks rather than taking private drives.

Allow about 2 hours 30 minutes for this 7 km circuit. The railway side is mostly level; the west shore has slopes, narrow uneven paths, stiles, gates and muddy or rutted ground. Walking shoes with grip are useful, and dogs need close control around livestock. The complete circuit is unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

The operator lists Dam Head parking at £5 per day, 9am to 5pm, with the gate closing at 5.30pm. Toilets are at the dam; the café usually opens 10am to 4pm. Check the parking signs and return before closure. Swimming is prohibited. Route and access information: Rudyard Lake Ltd walking map and visitor information, checked October 2026.

Walk details

County
Staffordshire
Walk type
Circular
Category
Countryside
Distance
4.5 mi (7.2 km)
Est. time
2h 30m
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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