Kinder Scout: The Majestic Moorland Plateau of the Peak District
Explore Kinder Scout, the Peak District’s highest moorland plateau, famed for dramatic cliffs, the tallest waterfall, and panoramic views.
Kinder Scout, standing at 636 metres, is the highest point in the Peak District and the East Midlands, England. This vast moorland plateau features dramatic gritstone cliffs, the tallest waterfall in the region—Kinder Downfall—and expansive panoramic views stretching to Snowdonia and the Yorkshire Three Peaks. A National Nature Reserve and site of the historic 1932 Mass Trespass, Kinder Scout offers challenging hikes, diverse landscapes, and rich natural heritage.
A brief summary to Kinder Scout
- High Peak, GB
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring a map and compass, as the plateau can be difficult to navigate in poor weather.
- Visit Kinder Downfall to witness the waterfall’s unique wind-blown spray, especially during strong westerly winds.
- Consider starting your hike from Edale or Hayfield villages for well-established routes and access to public transport.
- Respect the moorland environment by sticking to marked paths to help protect the fragile peat bogs and wildlife habitats.
- Learn about the 1932 Mass Trespass, a key event in UK outdoor access history, commemorated annually in the area.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walking
Take a train to Edale station, well connected from Manchester and Sheffield, then hike approximately 4 to 5 kilometers to Kinder Scout via Jacob’s Ladder or Grindsbrook Clough. The hike takes about 2 to 3 hours over steep and rocky terrain. No parking needed; suitable for experienced walkers.
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Car and Walking
Drive to Edale or Hayfield villages, where parking is available (paid parking in Edale). From there, walk 3 to 6 kilometers to the plateau following marked trails such as Jacob’s Ladder or William Clough. Parking can be limited on busy days; walking routes vary in difficulty and terrain.
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Bus and Hiking
Use regional bus services connecting to Edale or Hayfield from nearby towns like Glossop or Buxton. From the village, hike to Kinder Scout using established footpaths. Bus frequency varies; check schedules in advance. The hike requires good fitness and navigation skills.
Kinder Scout location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
- Snow
Discover more about Kinder Scout
A Moorland Plateau of National Significance
Kinder Scout is a vast moorland plateau located in the Dark Peak area of Derbyshire’s Peak District. At 636 metres (2,087 feet) above sea level, it is the highest point in the Peak District, Derbyshire, and the East Midlands region. The plateau is part of a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, managed largely by the National Trust as part of its High Peak Estate. Its moorland habitat is internationally important, supporting a mosaic of wildlife including breeding birds such as golden plovers and kestrels, and mammals like mountain hares.Distinctive Landscape and Geological Features
The landscape of Kinder Scout is characterized by its wild peat moors, gritstone escarpments, and dramatic rock formations. The plateau’s edges are marked by steep cliffs and tors, with Kinder Downfall—the highest waterfall in the Peak District—cascading 30 metres down a gritstone cliff. This waterfall is notable for its unique behavior during strong westerly winds when the water is blown back upwards, creating a spectacular spray visible from miles away. The plateau also includes subsidiary summits such as Kinder Low, marked by a trig point, and features like Mermaid’s Pool, steeped in local legend.Historic and Cultural Importance
Kinder Scout is renowned not only for its natural beauty but also for its role in British outdoor access history. In 1932, the Mass Trespass of Kinder Scout took place here—a peaceful protest by ramblers against restricted access to open country. This event was pivotal in the campaign for public access rights and contributed to the establishment of National Parks in the UK, with the Peak District being the first. The area remains a symbol of outdoor freedom and conservation efforts.Walking Routes and Outdoor Activities
The plateau is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, offering a range of routes from straightforward paths to challenging scrambles. The Pennine Way, a famous long-distance trail, crosses Kinder Scout, linking it with other moorlands like Bleaklow and Black Hill. Popular ascent routes include Jacob’s Ladder and Grindsbrook Clough from Edale, and William Clough from Hayfield. The terrain varies from heather-covered moors to rocky outcrops and peat bogs, with recent restoration projects aimed at repairing erosion and protecting the habitat.Panoramic Views and Natural Wonders
From Kinder Scout’s plateau, visitors can enjoy expansive views across the Peak District and beyond. On clear days, sights include the cityscape of Manchester, Winter Hill near Bolton, the Yorkshire Three Peaks, and even the mountains of Snowdonia in North Wales. The varied terrain and atmospheric conditions create a dynamic environment, with the possibility of witnessing frozen waterfalls in winter or the vibrant bloom of heather in late summer.Conservation and Visitor Experience
The National Trust and Peak District National Park Authority actively manage Kinder Scout to balance visitor access with environmental protection. Restoration efforts focus on peatland repair, wildlife habitat enhancement, and sustainable trail maintenance. Visitors are encouraged to respect the fragile moorland ecosystem by following designated paths and preparing adequately for variable weather and challenging navigation. The area’s natural beauty, combined with its historical significance and outdoor opportunities, makes Kinder Scout a compelling destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bamford Edge
12.5 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
White Nancy
17.9 km
Historic hilltop folly offering sweeping Cheshire Plain views and a symbol of Bollington’s heritage and community spirit.
Carl Wark
18.5 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Baslow Edge
21.7 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Forge Dam Park
21.9 km
Forge Dam Park - A peaceful retreat in Sheffield, offering scenic views, serene walks, and a delightful café amidst nature's beauty.
Eagle Stone
22.4 km
A dramatic gritstone outcrop on Baslow Edge, offering sweeping Peak District views and a touch of ancient legend.
Peak District National Park Authority
22.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The Monastery Manchester
22.8 km
Explore the enchanting Monastery Manchester, a heritage gem offering stunning architecture, serene gardens, and a glimpse into the city's rich history.
Bakewell Old House Museum
23.0 km
Discover Bakewell's vibrant history at the Old House Museum, showcasing exhibits that bring the town's heritage to life in a charming setting.
Clayton Hall
23.1 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Clayton Hall, a hidden gem in Manchester's Clayton Park, perfect for history lovers and families alike.
Bakewell Bridge
23.2 km
A stunning 14th-century stone bridge over the River Wye, Bakewell Bridge is a historic and scenic landmark at the heart of Derbyshire’s Peak District.
Shepherd Wheel
23.3 km
Discover the historical significance of Sheffield at Shepherd Wheel, a heritage museum showcasing traditional water-powered grinding techniques in a breathtaking woodland setting.
National Trust - Hare Hill
23.6 km
Explore Hare Hill, a captivating National Trust garden in Cheshire, where tranquility meets stunning natural beauty in every season.
Ashburne Tree Man
23.8 km
Explore the enchanting Ashburne Tree Man in Fallowfield, Manchester, a whimsical landmark that celebrates creativity and artistic spirit in the heart of the city.
Lud's Church
24.0 km
Discover Lud's Church, a stunning natural chasm in the Peak District, perfect for hiking and immersing in nature's beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jacob's Ladder
1.3 km
Steep stone steps leading to Kinder Scout’s wild moorlands, Jacob's Ladder is a Peak District classic for adventurous walkers.
Kinder Downfall
1.4 km
Peak District's tallest waterfall, famous for its reversed-flow effect during high winds and dramatic moorland setting.
Edale Cross
1.7 km
Edale Cross stands as a historic medieval boundary marker atop Jacob’s Ladder, a gateway to the wild beauty and heritage of the Peak District.
Brown Knoll
2.5 km
A peaceful moorland summit near Edale offering gentle walks and sweeping views across the Peak District’s Hope Valley.
Edale
4.3 km
Edale, nestled in Hope Valley, is the Peak District’s scenic gateway and starting point of the iconic Pennine Way, offering stunning hiking and rich heritage.
Twenty Trees
4.3 km
A tranquil copse offering panoramic views over Hayfield and the High Peak’s moorlands in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
Snake Woodland- Forestry England
4.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and peaceful trails of Snake Woodland, a lush forest retreat nestled in the heart of Hope Valley’s Peak District.
Dark Peak Estate
4.7 km
Explore the wild moorlands and gritstone edges of the Dark Peak Estate, a dramatic upland landscape in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
Mam Tor
5.8 km
Discover Mam Tor, the iconic 'Mother Hill' of the Peak District, offering ancient history, dramatic landslips, and panoramic views over Hope Valley.
National Trust - Dark Peak
5.9 km
Explore the wild, windswept moorlands and iconic gritstone edges of the Peak District’s Dark Peak, a haven for nature and history lovers.
Blue John Cavern
6.4 km
Discover Britain’s rare Blue John stone in Castleton’s spectacular limestone caves, where history and geology intertwine beneath the Peak District.
Treak Cliff Cavern
6.7 km
Explore a working Blue John stone mine with stunning geological formations and rare minerals in the Peak District.
Winnats Pass
6.8 km
Experience the breathtaking limestone gorge of Winnats Pass, a scenic and historic route through the heart of Hope Valley’s Peak District.
Speedwell Cavern
7.2 km
Explore a historic lead mine on a unique underground boat tour beneath the Peak District’s dramatic Winnats Pass.
Eldon Hole
7.3 km
A legendary 55-metre pothole steeped in geology, folklore, and Peak District heritage.
Essential places to dine
The Lamb Inn
4.8 km
Historic 18th-century pub in Chinley offering hearty British fare, real ales, and cozy en-suite rooms near Peak District attractions.
The Pack Horse Hayfield
4.8 km
A Michelin-recommended gastropub in Hayfield serving seasonal British cuisine and local ales in a warm, welcoming Peak District setting.
Old Hall Inn
7.2 km
A charming Georgian inn in the Peak District offering refined pub dining, cozy rooms, and a warm welcome amid stunning countryside.
The Paper Mill Inn
7.2 km
Charming historic country pub and inn in Whitehough, Peak District, renowned for real ales, seasonal food, and warm local hospitality.
The Little Mill @ Rowarth
7.6 km
A welcoming country inn in Rowarth offering cozy rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and scenic Peak District charm.
1530 The Restaurant
8.0 km
Charming Italian restaurant in Castleton offering fresh homemade dishes and vegan options in a cozy historic setting within the Peak District.
Ye Olde Nags Head
8.0 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Castleton offering cozy pub vibes, hearty British fare, and a lively community atmosphere.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn
8.1 km
Historic village inn and pub in Castleton offering cozy rooms, hearty English fare, and a warm welcome in the heart of the Peak District.
The Hanging Gate
8.8 km
Family-run pub and restaurant in the scenic High Peak offering hearty meals, event hosting, and outside catering in Chapel-en-le-Frith.
Derbyshire Eats
13.3 km
Experience refined dining and bespoke catering excellence in the charming village of Tideswell at Derbyshire Eats.
The Anchor Inn
13.5 km
A classic Peak District pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tideswell.
The Merchant's Yard
13.6 km
A charming boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant in Tideswell, blending historic character with seasonal Peak District cuisine.
The Horse & Jockey
13.8 km
A cozy, traditional village pub and B&B in Tideswell offering hearty meals, warm fires, and comfortable rooms in the Peak District.
Golden Hind
16.6 km
A classic Stockport pub serving hearty British fare with friendly service in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Lime Tree Restaurant and Wine Bar
17.7 km
Refined British dining with seasonal menus and expertly paired wines in the charming heart of Bollington.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bluebird’s Nest UK
7.4 km
Handpicked gifts and treasures in the heart of the Peak District's historic market town.
The Outdoor Shop
7.8 km
Your essential outfitter for quality outdoor gear and clothing in Hope Valley, perfect for Peak District adventures.
The Causeway Shop
8.0 km
Discover unique gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Castleton’s picturesque Hope Valley at The Causeway Shop.
The Original Blue John Craft Shop
8.0 km
Discover unique handcrafted Blue John jewellery and gifts in Castleton’s charming craft shop, celebrating Derbyshire’s rare gemstone heritage.
The Old Barn
8.0 km
A practical outdoor and gift shop in Castleton’s Market Place, perfect for stocking up before exploring the Peak District’s hills and caves.
Ivie & luxe
9.7 km
A stylish boutique in Whaley Bridge offering unique clothing, gifts, and homewares with a local touch – perfect for thoughtful souvenirs and personal treats.
Antique and Unique
13.5 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
The Springs Shopping Centre
14.1 km
Buxton's central shopping hub with 450 parking spaces and popular high street chains.
Decor Boutique
14.2 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares in Buxton’s charming Decor Boutique, nestled in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
Atticusboo
14.2 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at Atticusboo, Buxton’s charming independent boutique in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
Fiveways Country Store
14.5 km
Charming family-owned shop in Buxton’s Market Place offering unique gifts and local artisan products in the heart of the Peak District.
Jo Royle Outdoor
14.5 km
Discover quality outdoor gear and expert advice at Jo Royle Outdoor, Buxton’s beloved independent boutique for adventurers.
AWAKEN - Crystal & Spiritual Shop
14.7 km
Discover exquisite crystals and handcrafted spiritual jewellery at AWAKEN, Buxton’s premier metaphysical supply shop blending artistry with energy.
Outside.co.uk
15.7 km
Your essential outdoor clothing and equipment shop in Hathersage, offering expert gear and a cozy café for Peak District adventurers.
Pookie - Wookie Ltd
15.8 km
Handcrafted artisan ceramics by a mother-daughter duo in the scenic Hope Valley, perfect for unique and meaningful gifts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Nags Head
4.1 km
Historic 16th-century country pub at the start of the Pennine Way, offering rustic charm, real ales, and hearty fare in Edale’s scenic Peak District.
The Rambler Inn
4.3 km
Cozy stone-built pub and inn in Edale, offering hearty fare, local ales, and a warm welcome for Peak District hikers.
Bulls Head, Castleton
7.9 km
Historic pub and cozy inn in Castleton offering traditional British fare, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Peak District.
The Castle
8.0 km
A historic pub in Castleton offering hearty British fare, scenic views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Hope Valley.
The George
8.0 km
Traditional British charm meets cozy comfort in Castleton’s welcoming pub with rooms, great food, and scenic Hope Valley views.
Ladybower Inn
12.0 km
A cozy 3-star inn in Hope Valley offering hearty pub meals, friendly hospitality, and scenic access to Ladybower Reservoir and Peak District trails.
Star Inn
13.5 km
A classic Peak District pub in Tideswell offering hearty pies, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming village setting.
The George Inn
13.6 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
San Pedro (By Santiago)
14.2 km
A vibrant Spanish wine bar and cocktail lounge in Buxton offering authentic tapas, fine wines, and a lively atmosphere.
Buxton Brewery Tap House & Cellar Bar
14.3 km
Lively flagship brewery bar in Buxton’s historic heart, serving fresh local beers and seasonal dishes in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Red Lion Inn
14.6 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
The Barrel Inn
15.0 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The Bull at Foolow
15.1 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
Anglers Rest
15.3 km
A cozy riverside pub in Millers Dale offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a tranquil garden in the heart of the Peak District.
The Packhorse Inn
19.0 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- National Park
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
