COMBS RESERVOIR TO BLACK EDGE WALK
This beautiful Peak District walk is an absolute must-save for the colder months
Start: The Hanging Gate Pub, Chapel
Distance: 7.59 miles
Elevation: 1,150 feet
Duration: 3.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate with gentle elevation gain
Navigation: Follow step-by-step on komoot, or download GPX file
About the route
If you’re looking for one of the best Peak District walks in terms of views versus effort, you can’t go wrong with this route up to Black Edge Trig. Starting and ending at cosy country pub, The Hanging Gate, this 7 mile loop is perfect for stretching the legs on a crisp winter’s day, or a gentle stroll in the summer months. The walk takes you around the serene Combs Reservoir before climbing to the summit of Black Edge for breahtaking panoramas of the surrounding countryside.
While the views on this one are unmatched, it’s the two pubs that’re the real show stoppers on this route. If you’ve never visited The Hanging Gate during winter before, this place is a MUST day out in itself. When I say they go out with their Halloween and Christmas decorations, I mean all out.
The second pub at the latter end of the walk, The Bee Hive, is also a firm Peak District favourite.
Route difficulty
Walk type: Moderate circular walk back with some elevation gain and stiles
Parking: The Hanging Gate Pub, Chapel (Check with the pub if parking for the duration of the walk).
Terrain: Moorland trails, grassy paths, and some rocky sections. Be prepared for muddy patches after rain. Some sections can get boggy during the winter months, so definitely boot up for this one.
Walk highlights:
Black Edge Trig Point: Reach this peak for stunning panoramic Peak District views across Derbyshire and beyond.
Combs Reservoir: A peaceful stop with tranquil waters and great photo opps.
The Bee Hive Inn: A perfect spot along the way for a mid-walk pub break with a cracking food menu.
The Hanging Gate: Save this cosy pub for the end, especially if you’re visiting during the festive season to enjoy its famous Christmas decorations.
Route highlights
The Hanging Gate
Start and finish at this charming pub, located in Chapel-en-le-Frith. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and legendary festive décor, it’s an ideal place to relax after your walk.
Black Edge Trig Point
The climb up to Black Edge is rewarded with sweeping views of the Derbyshire countryside. Standing at 507 metres, this vantage point provides a fantastic panorama of the Peak District hills and valleys below.
The Bee Hive Inn
Located en route, The Bee Hive Inn offers hearty meals and refreshments, making it a great mid-walk pub stop. With its friendly vibe, it’s a classic Derbyshire pub experience.
Combs Reservoir
Pass by the picturesque Combs Reservoir at the start of your walk, a serene body of water framed by rolling hills. It’s a great spot to take a break and enjoy the tranquil Peak District scenery.
Where is Chapel-en-le-Frith?
Chapel-en-le-Frith, known as the "Capital of the Peak," is located in Derbyshire’s High Peak district, around 20 miles southeast of Manchester. Easily accessible by train and car, it’s a popular base for Peak District walks and adventures in the surrounding countryside.
Options to extend the route / things to do nearby
Eccles Pike: A short drive away, this hill offers another stunning Peak District viewpoint over the High Peak area.
Castleton: Explore this charming village, famous for its caverns and historic Peveril Castle.
Goyt Valley: A scenic spot for additional Peak District walks, cycling routes, and picnics.
Getting to the starting point
Arriving by car
Park at The Hanging Gate pub in Chapel-en-le-Frith. Just make sure to check with the pub about parking durations.
Public transport
Chapel-en-le-Frith station is on the Manchester-Sheffield line, making this one of the most accessible Peak District walks by train. The starting point is a short walk or taxi ride from the station.
✔️ Good to knows
Difficulty: Moderate, with some inclines and uneven terrain
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 and reservoirs.
Food and drink: The Hanging Gate and The Bee Hive Inn offer excellent options for pub food and drinks before, during, or after your walk.
Public transport: Chapel-en-le-Frith station is close to the starting point, located on the Manchester-Sheffield line.
Parking: Parking is available at Honister Slate Mine, which serves as a convenient starting point for the hike to Warnscale Bothy. Parking is £5 all day, or free for Honister customers.
🧭 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.
