Padley Gorge
Waterfall-carved woodland ravine where ancient forest meets cascading streams in the heart of the Peak District.
Padley Gorge is a stunning woodland ravine in the Peak District's Hope Valley, carved by Burbage Brook as it tumbles through ancient forest. This accessible natural attraction features well-maintained trails winding through dense woodland, past cascading waterfalls, and alongside crystal-clear streams. The gorge offers circular walks ranging from 1 to 4 miles, suitable for families and experienced hikers alike, with excellent facilities including cafés, parking, and train access via nearby Grindleford Station.
A brief summary to National Trust - Padley Gorge
- Padley Gorge Trail, Hope Valley, S32 2HY, GB
- +441433631757
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 2 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early during peak seasons (weekends, school holidays, summer months) as car parks fill quickly. The free B6521 roadside parking and Grindleford Station car park are popular alternatives to the paid Longshaw Estate facility.
- Wear sturdy, waterproof walking boots with good grip. The paths can be muddy and slippery, particularly after rain, and many sections feature uneven surfaces and tree roots.
- Visit after rainfall to experience the gorge at its most dramatic, with waterfalls at full flow and streams swollen with water. However, paths become more challenging in wet conditions.
- Combine your gorge walk with the moorland sections via Millstone Edge or Owler Tor for panoramic views and a more complete Peak District experience. Allow extra time for these extended routes.
- Dogs are welcome throughout most of the gorge with off-lead opportunities in woodland sections, but must be kept on leads in the busier Longshaw Estate area near the café and car park.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train from Sheffield or Manchester
Take the Hope Valley Line to Grindleford Station, which sits at the base of Padley Gorge. Journey time from Sheffield is approximately 20–25 minutes; from Manchester Piccadilly approximately 50–60 minutes. The station has a café, toilets, and a pizza van in evenings. All-day parking at Grindleford Station costs £2, payable via phone app, website, or card only. The main gorge trail entrance is directly accessible from the station, making this the most convenient option for train travelers.
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Car to Longshaw Estate Car Park
Drive to the National Trust Longshaw Estate car park, located on the B6521 near Hope Valley. Parking costs £5 for up to 4 hours or £7 for all day (free for National Trust members). The car park has a café, toilets, picnic tables, and a used book shop. This is the main starting point for circular walks combining the gorge with moorland sections. The facility is well-signposted from the B6521, though the car park can fill quickly during peak times.
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Car to B6521 Roadside Parking
Park free in marked bays along the B6521 roadside near Granby Discovery Barn, at the top of Padley Gorge. Approximately 20 spaces available. This is ideal for families and offers direct access to the upper gorge section. Ice cream vans often operate here. Do not park outside marked bays as enforcement is active. Use Google Maps pin location rather than postcode to avoid navigation errors.
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Car to Surprise View Car Park
Drive to Surprise View Car Park, a larger facility offering extended walks combining Padley Gorge with Millstone Edge and Owler Tor. Parking charges apply 9 am to 6 pm: £1.50 for up to 1 hour, £2.50 for up to 2 hours, £4.00 for up to 4 hours, or £4.75 all day. Payment by card or contactless only. Motorcycles pay a flat £1.50 daily fee. Ice cream vans frequently operate here. This car park suits visitors seeking longer, more challenging walks with panoramic moorland views.
National Trust - Padley Gorge location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about National Trust - Padley Gorge
A Woodland Ravine Shaped by Water and Time
Padley Gorge is a magnificent natural amphitheater carved deep into the Peak District landscape by the persistent flow of Burbage Brook. Over millennia, the stream has sculpted a dramatic ravine through ancient woodland, creating a landscape of towering trees, moss-covered boulders, and cascading water. The gorge's steep sides rise sharply from the valley floor, their slopes blanketed in native oak, birch, and conifer, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere beneath the canopy. The geological story written into the gorge's rock faces reveals layers of millstone grit and shale, testament to the region's industrial heritage and natural evolution.Trails Through Enchanted Forest
The gorge is traversed by a network of well-established footpaths that guide visitors through increasingly dramatic scenery. Starting from the lower reaches near Grindleford Station, the main trail follows Burbage Brook upstream, crossing small wooden bridges that offer vantage points over miniature waterfalls and clear pools. The path winds upward through dense woodland, with the sound of rushing water providing constant accompaniment. As elevation increases, the vegetation becomes more varied, with ferns unfurling from rocky outcrops and lichens painting the boulders in shades of grey and green. Multiple circular routes allow visitors to combine the gorge walk with adjacent moorland, including the ridge of Millstone Edge, which offers panoramic views across the Hope Valley and toward Owler Tor.Seasonal Transformations and Water Dynamics
Burbage Brook's character changes dramatically with the seasons and rainfall. In spring and after heavy winter rains, the stream becomes a powerful force, with waterfalls plunging energetically into deep pools—a sight that draws photographers and nature enthusiasts. Summer brings lower water levels, revealing smooth rocks perfect for wading and creating tranquil pools ideal for paddling. Autumn transforms the woodland into a tapestry of bronze and gold, while winter's bare branches reveal the gorge's underlying structure and allow distant views through the trees. The stream itself remains a constant presence, its voice echoing through the ravine and creating an immersive natural soundscape.A Living Ecosystem and Wildlife Haven
The gorge's woodland supports a rich ecosystem of flora and fauna. Native trees provide habitat for woodland birds, including woodpeckers and nuthatches, while the stream supports populations of trout and freshwater invertebrates. Deer are frequently spotted on the surrounding moorland and estate grounds, particularly in early morning or late afternoon. The damp woodland floor nurtures ferns, mosses, and fungi, creating pockets of exceptional biodiversity. The National Trust actively manages the woodland to maintain its ecological health while preserving the visitor experience, balancing conservation with public access.Gateway to the Wider Peak District
Padley Gorge serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the broader Peak District landscape. The adjacent Longshaw Estate, managed by the National Trust, encompasses moorland, woodland, and historic features including Longshaw Hall. From the gorge's upper reaches, walkers can access Millstone Edge and connect to trails leading toward Owler Tor and Surprise View, each offering distinct perspectives on the surrounding landscape. The proximity to Grindleford Station on the Hope Valley Line connects the gorge to the wider rail network, making it accessible from Sheffield and Manchester without requiring a car.Practical Accessibility and Modern Facilities
Despite its remote appearance, Padley Gorge is exceptionally well-served by modern infrastructure. Multiple car parks with varying cost structures provide flexible access options, from free roadside parking to paid facilities at Longshaw Estate and Grindleford Station. The gorge's popularity has necessitated the development of robust facilities including cafés, public toilets, and information boards. Seasonal ice cream vans appear at key parking areas, adding a touch of traditional British seaside charm to this woodland setting. The combination of train access, multiple parking options, and comprehensive facilities makes Padley Gorge one of the most accessible natural attractions in the Peak District, welcoming families, solo walkers, and experienced hikers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Carl Wark
2.6 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
4.5 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Bamford Edge
7.4 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Peak District National Park Authority
10.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The Endcliffe Campus
10.6 km
A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Lost & Found Sheffield
10.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Friesday Belgian Fries
11.4 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
12.1 km
Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Treak Cliff Cavern
12.2 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Treak Cliff Cavern in Castleton, a natural wonder filled with stunning rock formations and rich geological history.
Arts Tower
12.3 km
Discover the Arts Tower in Sheffield: A modernist architectural marvel and cultural hub offering panoramic city views and vibrant arts experiences.
Winnats Pass
12.3 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Winnats Pass, a limestone gorge in Hope Valley, where nature's wonders await every adventurer.
Millers Dale Viaduct
12.6 km
Experience the breathtaking Millers Dale Viaduct on the Monsal Trail, a stunning bridge offering rich history and picturesque views in the heart of the Peak District.
Devonshire Quarter
12.6 km
Sheffield's indie heart: wander Division Street's boutiques, sip in historic pubs, and unwind on Devonshire Green in this urban village gem.
Blue John Cavern
12.7 km
Explore the enchanting Blue John Cavern in the Peak District, a breathtaking underground world filled with stunning geological wonders and rich history.
Haddon Hall
12.7 km
Explore the enchanting Haddon Hall, a historical gem in the Peak District with stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and delightful dining experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lawrencefield
0.8 km
Dramatic gritstone cliffs and tranquil ponds in the heart of the Peak District's climbing country.
Froggatt Edge
2.6 km
Dramatic gritstone escarpment with sweeping moorland views, classic climbs, and rich Peak District heritage in Derbyshire.
Mompesson's Well
3.4 km
Historic boundary well where Eyam villagers left disinfected coins to contain the 1665 plague, symbolizing sacrifice and resilience in Derbyshire’s Peak District.
Riley Graves
3.5 km
Explore Riley Graves, a historical gem in Hope Valley, where nature and history intertwine to create an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Curbar Edge
4.2 km
Gritstone escarpment offering world-class climbing, panoramic Peak District views, and accessible moorland walks.
Eyam Museum
4.2 km
Discover Eyam Museum, where the story of a village’s brave self-quarantine during the 1665 plague comes vividly to life in the heart of the Peak District.
Stepping Stones
4.3 km
A tranquil natural river crossing in Watford offering scenic walks and gentle adventure for all ages.
Eagle Stone
5.3 km
Discover the rugged beauty and ancient legends of Eagle Stone, a towering gritstone landmark with panoramic views on Baslow Edge.
Gardom's Edge
6.1 km
A serene gritstone edge with ancient stone circles, panoramic valley views, and blissful solitude.
Birchen Edge
6.7 km
Birchen Edge: Premier Peak District climbing and scenic moorland views near Bakewell.
Forge Dam Park
7.9 km
A tranquil Sheffield park featuring a historic millpond, family playground, scenic trails, and a welcoming café for nature lovers and families.
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet
8.0 km
Explore Sheffield's industrial soul at this complete 18th-century scythe works powered by the River Sheaf.
Ladybower Reservoir
8.2 km
A vast Peak District reservoir famous for its dramatic ‘plugholes’, drowned villages and Dambusters history, surrounded by moorland walks and cycling trails.
Ecclesall Woods
8.2 km
Discover Sheffield’s largest ancient woodland, a tranquil haven of wildlife, history, and scenic trails just minutes from the city centre.
Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop
8.2 km
Award-winning farm shop offering fresh estate-reared produce, artisanal goods, and a seasonal café experience with stunning Chatsworth views.
Essential places to dine
The Eating House
4.6 km
A cozy café nestled in Derbyshire Craft Centre offering fresh, inclusive menus and a warm community atmosphere in Hope Valley.
Fischer's Baslow Hall
6.2 km
Elegant Edwardian manor with refined British dining, charming gardens, and luxurious accommodation in the heart of the Peak District.
The Prince of Wales Baslow
6.7 km
A sophisticated country pub in Baslow offering seasonal British cuisine, fine wines, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Peak District.
The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley
8.0 km
A historic Peak District inn blending rustic charm, elegant rooms, and fresh local cuisine near Chatsworth Estate.
White Lion
8.9 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering hearty British fare, warm welcomes, and a cozy village atmosphere in Great Longstone.
The Crispin
8.9 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Great Longstone offering hearty British fare and local ales in the heart of the Peak District.
The Tickled Trout
9.3 km
A charming British gastro pub in Barlow offering exquisite trout dishes, warm hospitality, and a perfect blend of rustic and modern dining.
Rafters Restaurant
9.4 km
Discover Sheffield’s refined modern British dining at Rafters, where rustic charm meets innovative flavors and impeccable service.
Borgo Antica Osteria
9.5 km
Experience authentic Italian hospitality and cuisine in Sheffield’s warm and welcoming Borgo Antica Osteria.
The Anchor Inn
9.5 km
A classic Peak District pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tideswell.
La Luna Restaurant
9.8 km
Authentic Italian flavors and a warm BYO atmosphere await you at La Luna on Sheffield’s vibrant Ecclesall Road.
Urban Choola
9.9 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with a modern twist at Urban Choola, Sheffield’s vibrant dining destination on Ecclesall Road.
Olive
10.1 km
Mediterranean-inspired dining with Italian and Moroccan flair, set in a warm, rustic Sheffield venue with artistic charm and attentive service.
The Merchant's Yard
10.3 km
A charming boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant in Tideswell, blending historic character with seasonal Peak District cuisine.
The Peacock At Barlow
10.3 km
Discover The Peacock At Barlow - A scenic pub offering delicious breakfasts and stunning views over Low Peak District.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pookie - Wookie Ltd
3.1 km
Handcrafted artisan ceramics by a mother-daughter duo in the scenic Hope Valley, perfect for unique and meaningful gifts.
Outside.co.uk
3.3 km
Your essential outdoor clothing and equipment shop in Hathersage, offering expert gear and a cozy café for Peak District adventurers.
Delightful Living
4.3 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of Eyam’s historic craft centre, blending heritage with handcrafted charm.
Derbyshire Gift Centre
4.6 km
A charming family-run gift shop and café in Hope Valley offering seasonal treasures and homemade delights in the Peak District.
Gifted
9.2 km
Discover Sheffield's premier spot for unique gifts and artisanal treasures on vibrant Ecclesall Road South—perfect for thoughtful finds.
Antique and Unique
10.0 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
Off The Rails Boutique
10.0 km
Affordable, stylish fashion with a personal touch in the heart of Woodseats, Sheffield’s welcoming family-run boutique.
The Stock Exchange
10.5 km
A compact, curated women's boutique in Hunters Bar offering distinctive clothing and accessories in a friendly neighbourhood setting.
The Village Store
10.5 km
Discover The Village Store in Sheffield: Your go-to convenience stop for snacks, drinks, and local treats in a cozy atmosphere.
Trove
10.7 km
Uncover Sheffield's creative treasures at Trove, where local artistry and quirky gifts await on Sharrow Vale Road's charming stretch.
The Old Barn
10.8 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.
The Causeway Shop
10.8 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
10.8 km
Discover unique handcrafted Blue John jewellery and gifts in Castleton’s charming craft shop, celebrating Derbyshire’s rare gemstone heritage.
The Famous Sheffield Shop
11.0 km
Discover authentic Sheffield-forged cutlery and gifts at this iconic shop, preserving the city's steelmaking mastery since 1983 amid Ecclesall Road's vibrant charm.
SAYPALOMA
11.0 km
Ibiza-inspired ladies' fashion on Sheffield's trendiest stretch—discover boho-chic treasures at Saypaloma amid Ecclesall Road's indie buzz.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Eyre Arms
4.3 km
A charming historic pub in Hope Valley offering hearty Derbyshire fare and warm hospitality in the heart of the Peak District.
The Barrel Inn
5.2 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The Bull at Foolow
6.4 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
Ladybower Inn
8.8 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.
The Packhorse Inn
9.5 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
Red Lion Inn
9.6 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
The Dark Horse Bar
9.7 km
Sheffield's cozy fusion of pub warmth, cocktail flair, and burger bliss on vibrant Ecclesall Road—perfect for craft drinks and casual nights out.
Wildcard Bar and Grill
9.9 km
Sheffield's ultimate sports bar: 40+ screens, giant Jumbotron, epic American grill, shuffleboard, pool, and cocktails in luxury style.
The George Inn
10.3 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Star Inn
10.4 km
A classic Peak District pub in Tideswell offering hearty pies, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming village setting.
The Edge Bar
10.6 km
Vibrant University of Sheffield bar buzzing with pub grub, craft drinks, pool, darts, quizzes, and live sports in the heart of student residences.
The Harritt wine bar
10.6 km
Cozy Sheffield wine bar with exceptional selections, cheeseboards, and personal service on vibrant Ecclesall Road – ideal for intimate evenings.
The Lescar
10.7 km
Vintage Sheffield pub pouring local ales, serving roasts and comedy in cozy wood-paneled rooms with a sunny beer garden—your Hunters Bar local gem.
Porter Brook
10.7 km
Traditional Sheffield pub with hearty grub, buzzing events, sunny beer garden, and dog-friendly vibes on lively Ecclesall Road.
Monk Bar
10.8 km
Cool cocktail haven on Sheffield's trendy Ecclesall Road, serving inventive drinks, 2-for-1 happy hours, and industrial-chic vibes for intimate nights out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dempseys Bar and Club
12.4 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Corporation
12.5 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Code Sheffield
12.7 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
Fez Sheffield
12.8 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
12.8 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
Popworld - Sheffield
12.8 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
The Viper Rooms
12.8 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
Temple Sheffield
12.9 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
The Leadmill
13.0 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
Al Ahsa Night Club
13.1 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Night Kitchen
13.2 km
Dive into Sheffield's industrial heartbeat at The Night Kitchen, where former cutlery factory walls pulse with electronic beats until dawn in a raw, inclusive nightlife haven.
Tank
13.3 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
Plot 22
13.7 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
Waikiki Beach Bar
15.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Great Rocks Social Club
16.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Great Rocks Social Club, a welcoming hub in Peak Dale perfect for socializing and entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Nature Escape
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
- Physically Demanding
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
