12 incredible Peak District sunset walks (less than an hour from Manchester)
If you live in Manchester and you're craving a quick escape into nature after work, you don’t need to travel far. The Peak District National Park is right on your doorstep, and it’s packed with stunning spots that come alive at sunset. From dramatic ridges to quiet hilltops, you don’t need to walk for miles for big views and golden skies.
Whether you're looking for an easy evening stroll or a proper post-office adventure, these 12 spots are less than an hour’s drive from Manchester (with one irresistible bonus spot), and offer some of the best sunset views in the region.
1. Chinley Churn & Cracken Edge
Right on the edge of the High Peak, this is a cracking little walk with big views and barely any crowds. The best part? You can start straight from Chinley train station, so it’s a great one to save if you fancy leaving the car at home. Head up past the old quarry and onto the ridge – you’ll get wide open views across to Kinder Scout and South Head, and on a clear evening, the sunset over Manchester is unmatched.
Good to know: It's a bit rocky underfoot, especially near the quarry, so sturdy shoes are a shout. Takes about 1.5–2 hours as a circular.
Navigation: follow the route here.
2. Cown Edge
When it comes to walks with the best sunset views across Manchester, Cown Edge is absolutely the most underrated. It’s near Rowarth, not far from Marple, and it gives you those classic Peak District ridge views without the crowds. The sunsets up here on a clear day are unmatched – you’ll get golden light spilling across the fields and moorland, and views right across the city.
Start from: Monks Road near Chisworth or Plainsteads Farm – easy parking nearby.
Navigation: follow the route here.
3. Mount Famine
Short, steep, and totally worth it. Mount Famine is a compact ridge near Hayfield that gives you fantastic views over to Kinder Scout. It’s a great option if you’ve only got a couple of hours and want to be up high for sunset without doing a massive hike. The summit catches the light beautifully as the sun dips behind the peaks.
Top tip: You can link it with nearby South Head for a slightly longer loop.
Navigation: follow the route here.
4. Shutlingsloe – The "Cheshire Matterhorn"
Nicknamed for its distinctive shape, Shutlingsloe is one of the most iconic hills in the western Peaks. Technically on the edge of the Peak District, this one’s a great one to save for a slightly longer adventure. The walk up from Macclesfield Forest is short but steep, and from the summit you get sweeping views over the countryside. It’s particularly special at sunset, when the light stretches across the ridgelines.
Parking: Trentabank Reservoir car park (Macclesfield Forest).
Navigation: Follow the route here.
5. Curbar Edge
Curbar is one of the Peak District’s classic sunset spots – and for good reason. The edge runs along a dramatic gritstone escarpment, with wide-open views across the Derwent Valley. You don’t need to hike far to get amazing scenery, which makes it ideal if you’re short on time or fancy a more relaxed evening walk. In fact, you can park right on the edge, making it a great one to save if you’re chasing daylight.
Parking: Curbar Gap car park is the most convenient – you’re on the edge in minutes.
Bonus: Combine with Froggatt or Baslow Edges for a longer wander.
Navigation: Follow a circular route here (or park straight at the edge, no walk required).
6. Winnats Pass
If you're after pure drama from your sunset wander, this is the one. The steep limestone cliffs of Winnats Pass look incredible at any time of day, but sunset takes it up a notch. You can walk up onto the ridge for brilliant views over Castleton and Mam Tor, or stay low and watch the light fade through the pass.
Extend your walk: Combine with a short climb up Mam Tor for even more sunset views.
Nice extra: Head into Castleton after for a pint or a bite to eat.
Navigation: Follow the route here.
7. Shining Tor
A gentle ridge walk that rewards you with big views. Starting from the Goyt Valley, the path climbs steadily to Shining Tor – the highest point in Cheshire. It’s a brilliant spot for sunset, with wide skies and the hills rolling away into the distance. If it’s clear, you might even see the Welsh mountains far off in the west.
Route tip: Park at Errwood Reservoir for a straightforward out-and-back route.
Good for: Less challenging hikes with big skies.
Optional: Extend to Cats Tor for a full ridge walk.
Navigation: Follow the route here.
8. Tegg’s Nose Country Park
If you’re after something easy and scenic, Tegg’s Nose is a great option. There are a few short trails to choose from, and the views over Macclesfield Forest and the reservoirs are stunning – especially in the evening light. It’s a peaceful spot that’s easy to access, with a car park and facilities nearby.
Great for: Casual sunset walks, families, solo hikes.
Facilities: Car park, toilets, café (check opening times).
Navigation: follow the route here.
9. Kinder Scout
This is a proper Peak District adventure. Kinder Scout is the highest point in the national park, and sunset from up here is something special. You can hike up from Edale or Hayfield – both routes are steep but well-trodden – and once you’re on the plateau, it feels like another world. The light over the moors as the sun goes down is always worth the effort.
Be prepared: It’s exposed and can get chilly, so pack a torch and some layers.
Tip: Leave time to descend safely – bring a torch and check the weather.
Navigation: Follow the route here.
10. Dragon’s Back (Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill)
This one’s a little over an hour from Manchester, but is an absolute must for your sunset bucketlist. The “Dragon’s Back” ridge near Earl Sterndale is one of the most iconic landscapes in the Peaks – think sharp ridgelines and dramatic slopes. It’s a popular sunrise spot, but it’s just as impressive at sunset, with fewer people around and incredible light across the hills.
Worth noting: Some sections are steep and involves a scramble – it’s best done in good weather and decent boots.
Navigation: Follow the route here.
11. Win Hill
Rising above Ladybower Reservoir, Win Hill is a brilliant spot for a sunset hike. You can start from Yorkshire Bridge or Hope and climb steadily through woodland before breaking out onto the summit ridge. From the top, the views are stunning – looking across the water, down the valley, and over to Kinder. It’s peaceful, spacious, and great for taking it all in.
Start from: Yorkshire Bridge Inn or Hope train station for a rewarding uphill hike.
Navigation: Follow the route here.
12. Wingather Rocks
A quiet little viewpoint near Whaley Bridge, and a popular spot with climbers. Wingather Rocks is a great option if you want something low-key but still scenic. The walk up is short, and the rocks make a great place to sit and watch the sun drop behind the hills. It’s not as well-known as other spots, which makes it perfect if you're after a bit of solitude.
Navigation: follow the route here.
Final tips for sunset walks in the Peak District:
Time it right: Check local sunset times and allow at least 30–45 minutes before for golden hour.
Safety first: Bring a headtorch, layers, and a map – even on familiar trails.
Respect nature: Stick to footpaths, leave no trace, and keep dogs under control.
