This Mam Tor 12.6 km loop is one of the most iconic walks in the Peak District — a perfect blend of dramatic scenery, historic caverns, and the famous Great Ridge linking Mam Tor, Back Tor and Lose Hill.
🥾 Mam Tor & The Great Ridge – Full Circular Hike
A Peak District classic with caverns, ridgelines, sweeping views and a rewarding finish in Castleton
Starting and ending in Castleton, it’s a brilliant half‑day adventure with plenty of places to stop for food and drinks afterwards.
📍 Route Overview
Start/End: Castleton Car Park Distance: 12.6 km / 7.8 miles Time: 3.5–5 hours (allowing for breaks, photos, and a relaxed pace) Difficulty: Moderate Terrain: Steep sections, stone paths, grassy ridges, valley tracks
🗺️ Route Breakdown (Anti‑Clockwise)
1. Castleton Car Park → Arthur’s Way → Speedwell Cavern
Leave the car park and turn right onto Arthur’s Way. This gentle start leads you past Speedwell Cavern, one of Castleton’s famous show caves. You can pop in before or after the walk if you want the full underground boat‑ride experience.
2. Walk Through Winnats Pass
Continue along the road and footpaths into Winnats Pass, one of the most dramatic natural features in the Peak District. Towering limestone walls rise on both sides — it’s a spectacular approach to the hills.
You’ll also pass the National Trust Dark Peak boundary, marking the start of the upland moorland landscape.
3. Climb to Mam Tor (The Shivering Mountain)
Follow the path up to Mam Tor, a 517m summit with panoramic views over Edale, Hope Valley and the Great Ridge. It’s a steady climb but well‑paved and hugely rewarding.
Perfect spot for a breather and photos.
4. Mam Tor → Back Tor (Great Ridge)
From Mam Tor, follow the famous Great Ridge eastwards. This is one of the most scenic ridge walks in England — undulating, airy, and full of incredible viewpoints.
You’ll pass:
- Hollins Cross
- Back Tor (short, steep pull to the top)
Back Tor is a brilliant place for a snack stop with views in every direction.
5. Back Tor → Lose Hill
Continue along the ridge to Lose Hill, the final summit on the ridge. It’s a beautiful, pointed peak with sweeping views over the Hope Valley and Kinder Scout.
6. Lose Hill → Edale Road
Descend from Lose Hill on the well‑marked path into the valley. At the bottom, turn right onto Edale Road, following the quiet lane towards Castleton.
7. Edale Road → Castleton Road → Food & Drink Stop
Turn right again onto Castleton Road, bringing you back into the village.
This is the perfect moment to stop for food or a drink. Castleton has plenty of options.
8. Return to Castleton Car Park
After your well‑earned break, stroll back to the car park to complete the loop.
🌄 Highlights Along the Route
- Speedwell Cavern
- Winnats Pass
- National Trust Dark Peak
- Mam Tor summit
- The Great Ridge
- Hollins Cross
- Back Tor
- Lose Hill
- Hope Valley views
- Castleton village pubs & cafés
🧺 Tips for the Walk
- Footwear: Proper walking boots recommended — some steep and uneven sections
- Weather: The ridge is exposed; bring layers
- Food: Pack snacks or a lunch for the ridge, then enjoy a pub meal afterwards
- Photos: Mam Tor, Back Tor and Lose Hill are all top spots
- Facilities: Toilets and shops in Castleton
Places to stay locally
🏞️ Summary
This 7.8‑mile loop is a Peak District classic — dramatic, scenic and full of variety. From the limestone walls of Winnats Pass to the sweeping Great Ridge and the welcoming pubs of Castleton, it’s a perfect day out for walkers who want big views without technical difficulty.
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