EASY WALK IN CASTLETON: CAVE DALE
This beautiful Peak District walk is easy on the legs but big on views
Start: Cross Street Car Park, Cross Street, Castleton, Hope Valley, Derbyshire, S33 8WH
Distance: 3 miles
Elevation: 700 feet
Duration: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy with gentle elevation gain
Navigation: Follow step-by-step on komoot, or download GPX file
About the route
Looking for a short and scenic walk in the Peak District that’s both easy on the legs and big on views? This charming route from Castleton is the perfect alternative to the more strenuous Mam Tor or the nearby Edale Skyline hikes. At just 3 miles with minimal elevation, it’s an ideal choice for a relaxing day out without compromising on breathtaking scenery.
This gentle circular walk combines Castleton’s historic charm with stunning natural beauty. Starting from Cross Street Car Park, the route takes you through the picturesque village of Castleton before ascending gently to Peveril Castle for sweeping views of the Hope Valley. From there, you’ll venture into the dramatic limestone gorge of Cave Dale, a hidden gem that feels like stepping back in time. The final stretch loops past the famous Peak Cavern, also known as the Devil’s Arse, before returning to the heart of Castleton.
Route difficulty
Walk type: Easy circular walk with minimal elevation gain.
Terrain: Mostly well-defined paths with some uneven sections, especially in Cave Dale. Suitable for most fitness levels.
Accessibility: Not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs due to narrow and uneven paths.
Route highlights
Peveril Castle: Perched high above Castleton, this Norman fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. A must-visit for history buffs and photographers alike.
Cave Dale: This enchanting gorge, framed by towering limestone cliffs, is a tranquil escape from the busier trails. Keep an eye out for fossils embedded in the rocks!
Devil’s Arse (Peak Cavern): The largest natural cave entrance in the British Isles, this awe-inspiring cavern is steeped in legend and a fascinating stop along the route.
Castleton Village: The walk begins and ends in this charming village, renowned for its cosy pubs, delightful cafes, and unique shops. Don’t miss The Castle Inn, Tilly’s Tearoom, or the artisan shops along the main street.
Is this route for me?
Unlike the challenging climbs of Mam Tor or the lengthy Edale Skyline, this walk is perfect for those seeking a laid-back experience. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly (on leads), and accessible year-round. Despite its ease, it offers diverse scenery, from historic landmarks to geological wonders, making it one of the best short walks in the Peak District.
Options to extend the route / things to do nearby
If you have extra time, consider exploring:
Mam Tor: A short drive away, this iconic Peak District summit offers incredible views.
Blue John Cavern: Delve into one of Castleton’s famous show caves, known for its rare Blue John stone.
Hope Valley: Extend your adventure with a leisurely bike ride or another walk in this scenic area.
Getting to the starting point
By car: Use the postcode S33 8WH for Cross Street Car Park in Castleton. Ample parking is available, but it’s advisable to arrive early during peak seasons.
By public transport: Castleton is well-served by buses from Hope, which connects to mainline train services.
✔️ Good to knows
Difficulty: Easy with gentle elevation gain.
Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof boots are recommended, especially after rain, as some paths can get boggy.
Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome but should be kept on leads near livestock.
Food and drink: Castleton boasts an array of pubs, cafes and shops. For a hearty meal, visit The Castle Inn. For lighter bites, try Tilly’s Tearoom or one of the village’s many charming cafes.
🧭 Following the route
I use komoot and OS Maps for offline navigation. To follow this walk step-by-step on komoot, simply click this link here or download the GPX file and upload it to your chosen app, such as OS Maps.
