Snake Woodland - A Tranquil Forest Haven in Hope Valley
Discover the serene beauty and peaceful trails of Snake Woodland, a lush forest retreat nestled in the heart of Hope Valley’s Peak District.
Nestled in the heart of Hope Valley within the Peak District National Park, Snake Woodland is a serene and enchanting forest managed by Forestry England. Known for its lush pine plantations, babbling streams, and scenic walking trails, this woodland offers peaceful hikes, abundant wildlife, and picturesque picnic spots. Open year-round with free access, it is ideal for families, nature lovers, and hikers seeking a tranquil escape in a stunning natural setting.
A brief summary to Snake Woodland- Forestry England
- Snake Rd, Hope Valley, S33 7ZH, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and better chances to spot wildlife.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as some trails can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at the scenic waterfall spot along the main trail.
- Parking at Birchen Clough Car Park is free but limited; arrive early on weekends and holidays.
- Keep dogs on a lead in sensitive areas and take all rubbish home to preserve the woodland’s natural beauty.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Snake Woodland is straightforward via the A57 Snake Pass road. The nearest parking is at Birchen Clough Car Park, about 5 minutes’ walk from the woodland entrance. Parking is free but limited, especially on weekends and holidays. Travel time from Sheffield is approximately 30–40 minutes, and from Manchester about 45–60 minutes.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Glossop and Hope Valley with stops near Snake Pass. From Glossop, take the bus towards Sheffield and alight at the Snake Pass Inn stop, then walk approximately 1 km to the woodland entrance. Bus frequency varies, so check local timetables. The journey typically takes 30–45 minutes from Glossop.
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Walking
For active visitors staying nearby, walking from Hope Valley village to Snake Woodland takes about 45–60 minutes over moderate terrain. Trails include some uneven and muddy sections, so suitable footwear and weather preparation are advised.
Snake Woodland- Forestry England 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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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Snake Woodland- Forestry England
A Woodland Sanctuary in the Peak District
Snake Woodland is a captivating forest area located just off the famous Snake Pass road in Hope Valley, Derbyshire. This woodland is part of the larger Peak District National Park, offering visitors a peaceful retreat amid towering pine trees, moss-covered rocks, and winding streams. The forest’s landscape is characterized by a mix of conifer plantations and natural watercourses, creating a lush, almost magical atmosphere that changes with every season.Trails and Natural Features
The woodland features several well-marked walking routes, including a popular 2.3 km circular trail suitable for families and casual walkers. Along the paths, you can cross wooden footbridges over crystal-clear streams and discover a charming waterfall that serves as a perfect picnic spot. The terrain varies from gentle riverside walks to more rugged sections with uneven ground, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The trails invite exploration and play, with natural features like fallen logs and stepping stones adding to the woodland charm.Wildlife and Seasonal Beauty
Snake Woodland supports diverse wildlife, including birds, frogs, and occasional sightings of grouse and lizards. The rich biodiversity thrives in the quiet, sheltered environment beneath the pine canopy. Seasonal changes bring distinct moods: vibrant greenery in spring and summer, a carpet of red toadstools and autumn leaves in fall, and a serene, snow-dusted landscape in winter. The woodland’s tranquility makes it an ideal spot for birdwatching and nature photography.Historical and Cultural Context
The nearby Snake Pass, constructed in the early 19th century by engineer Thomas Telford, adds historical significance to the area. Originally a toll road for the Duke of Devonshire, it snakes through the moorlands and woodland valleys, connecting Glossop and Sheffield. While the Snake Pass Inn no longer operates, the woodland remains a beloved natural landmark reflecting the region’s blend of industrial heritage and wild landscapes.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors can enjoy free parking at nearby Birchen Clough Car Park, though spaces fill quickly on weekends and holidays. Facilities such as toilets and cafes are located in nearby Glossop or at the Upper Derwent Visitor Centre. The woodland is dog-friendly and suitable for all ages, with accessible paths near the entrance. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by taking rubbish home and refraining from camping or barbecues.Connecting with the Landscape
Snake Woodland offers a peaceful escape where the sound of rushing water and rustling trees invites mindfulness and relaxation. The forest’s sheltered paths provide refuge from the often windy moorlands above, making it a perfect place to unwind. For more adventurous visitors, longer hikes lead to Kinder Scout, Win Hill, and Bleaklow, expanding the experience into the wider Peak District’s dramatic terrain.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bamford Edge
11.8 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Carl Wark
18.1 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Shepherd Wheel
21.6 km
Discover the historical significance of Sheffield at Shepherd Wheel, a heritage museum showcasing traditional water-powered grinding techniques in a breathtaking woodland setting.
Hillsborough Park Walled Garden
22.2 km
Explore the enchanting Hillsborough Park Walled Garden in Sheffield, a serene retreat filled with vibrant flora and rich history, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
White Nancy
22.2 km
Historic hilltop folly offering sweeping Cheshire Plain views and a symbol of Bollington’s heritage and community spirit.
The Endcliffe Campus
22.5 km
A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Endcliffe Park
22.5 km
Explore the beauty of Endcliffe Park in Sheffield, a perfect blend of nature, community, and tranquility for all visitors seeking relaxation.
Baslow Edge
22.6 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Endcliffe Park Playground
22.7 km
Discover fun and adventure at Endcliffe Park Playground in Sheffield, a perfect family destination with scenic parkland and vibrant play areas.
Bear pit
23.0 km
Victorian heritage meets natural history at Sheffield's finest surviving bear pit, a Grade II listed landmark within beloved botanical gardens.
The Glass Pavilions
23.0 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of The Glass Pavilions in Sheffield, a botanical paradise full of vibrant plant life and tranquil escapes.
The Beer House
23.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and extensive beer selection at The Beer House, Sheffield's favorite pub for locals and visitors alike.
Rose Garden
23.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Sheffield's Rose Garden, a lush oasis of vibrant blooms and serene pathways perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Botanical Gardens
23.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Sheffield's Botanical Gardens, featuring diverse plant life, historic glasshouses, and picturesque landscapes, perfect for relaxation.
The Well Sheffield
23.1 km
Explore The Well Sheffield, a vibrant Baptist church in Sharrow, blending rich community spirit with stunning architecture and cultural events.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kinder Downfall
3.6 km
Peak District's tallest waterfall, famous for its reversed-flow effect during high winds and dramatic moorland setting.
Kinder Scout
4.6 km
Explore Kinder Scout, the Peak District’s highest moorland plateau, famed for dramatic cliffs, the tallest waterfall, and panoramic views.
Jacob's Ladder
5.7 km
Steep stone steps leading to Kinder Scout’s wild moorlands, Jacob's Ladder is a Peak District classic for adventurous walkers.
Derwent Reservoir
5.8 km
Historic reservoir and dam in Peak District with stunning views, scenic walks, and wartime heritage near Hope Valley.
Dark Peak Estate
5.9 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.
Edale
6.0 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.
Edale Cross
6.2 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
6.8 km
A peaceful moorland summit near Edale offering gentle walks and sweeping views across the Peak District’s Hope Valley.
Twenty Trees
7.9 km
A tranquil copse offering panoramic views over Hayfield and the High Peak’s moorlands in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
Mam Tor
8.0 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
8.3 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
8.5 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
8.7 km
Explore a working Blue John stone mine with stunning geological formations and rare minerals in the Peak District.
Winnats Pass
9.0 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
9.2 km
Explore a historic lead mine on a unique underground boat tour beneath the Peak District’s dramatic Winnats Pass.
Essential places to dine
The Pack Horse Hayfield
8.4 km
A Michelin-recommended gastropub in Hayfield serving seasonal British cuisine and local ales in a warm, welcoming Peak District setting.
The Lamb Inn
9.3 km
Historic 18th-century pub in Chinley offering hearty British fare, real ales, and cozy en-suite rooms near Peak District attractions.
1530 The Restaurant
9.4 km
Charming Italian restaurant in Castleton offering fresh homemade dishes and vegan options in a cozy historic setting within the Peak District.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn
9.4 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.
Ye Olde Nags Head
9.4 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Castleton offering cozy pub vibes, hearty British fare, and a lively community atmosphere.
The Little Mill @ Rowarth
10.1 km
A welcoming country inn in Rowarth offering cozy rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and scenic Peak District charm.
Old Hall Inn
11.7 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
11.7 km
Charming historic country pub and inn in Whitehough, Peak District, renowned for real ales, seasonal food, and warm local hospitality.
The Hanging Gate
13.3 km
Family-run pub and restaurant in the scenic High Peak offering hearty meals, event hosting, and outside catering in Chapel-en-le-Frith.
The Anchor Inn
15.9 km
A classic Peak District pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tideswell.
Derbyshire Eats
16.0 km
Experience refined dining and bespoke catering excellence in the charming village of Tideswell at Derbyshire Eats.
The Merchant's Yard
16.2 km
A charming boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant in Tideswell, blending historic character with seasonal Peak District cuisine.
The Horse & Jockey
16.5 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
19.1 km
A classic Stockport pub serving hearty British fare with friendly service in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Rafters Restaurant
21.5 km
Discover Sheffield’s refined modern British dining at Rafters, where rustic charm meets innovative flavors and impeccable service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Outdoor Shop
9.3 km
Your essential outfitter for quality outdoor gear and clothing in Hope Valley, perfect for Peak District adventures.
The Causeway Shop
9.4 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
9.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted Blue John jewellery and gifts in Castleton’s charming craft shop, celebrating Derbyshire’s rare gemstone heritage.
The Old Barn
9.6 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.
Bluebird’s Nest UK
11.9 km
Handpicked gifts and treasures in the heart of the Peak District's historic market town.
Ivie & luxe
14.1 km
A stylish boutique in Whaley Bridge offering unique clothing, gifts, and homewares with a local touch – perfect for thoughtful souvenirs and personal treats.
Outside.co.uk
15.6 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.
Antique and Unique
16.1 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
Delightful Living
18.4 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of Eyam’s historic craft centre, blending heritage with handcrafted charm.
The Springs Shopping Centre
18.4 km
Buxton's central shopping hub with 450 parking spaces and popular high street chains.
Decor Boutique
18.5 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares in Buxton’s charming Decor Boutique, nestled in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
Atticusboo
18.6 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at Atticusboo, Buxton’s charming independent boutique in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
All Things Unique
18.8 km
Explore All Things Unique in Ashton-under-Lyne for an unforgettable shopping experience filled with eclectic gifts and local treasures.
Fiveways Country Store
18.8 km
Charming family-owned shop in Buxton’s Market Place offering unique gifts and local artisan products in the heart of the Peak District.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Nags Head
5.6 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
6.2 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
9.4 km
Historic pub and cozy inn in Castleton offering traditional British fare, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Peak District.
The Castle
9.4 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
9.5 km
Traditional British charm meets cozy comfort in Castleton’s welcoming pub with rooms, great food, and scenic Hope Valley views.
Ladybower Inn
10.7 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
16.2 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
16.2 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
The Barrel Inn
16.3 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The Bull at Foolow
16.8 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
Red Lion Inn
17.1 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
Anglers Rest
18.4 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.
San Pedro (By Santiago)
18.5 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
18.6 km
Lively flagship brewery bar in Buxton’s historic heart, serving fresh local beers and seasonal dishes in a rustic, welcoming setting.
The Eyre Arms
21.1 km
A charming historic pub in Hope Valley offering hearty Derbyshire fare and warm hospitality in the heart of the Peak District.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Level 2
18.9 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
Fez Sheffield
24.3 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
24.3 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.
The Night Kitchen
24.3 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.
Al Ahsa Night Club
24.4 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Corporation
24.4 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Popworld - Sheffield
24.4 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
24.5 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.
Dempseys Bar and Club
24.6 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.
Code Sheffield
24.7 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.
Tank
25.0 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
Plot 22
25.1 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
The Leadmill
25.2 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.
Temple Sheffield
25.3 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 Royal Oak | Peak District
25.5 km
Experience the charm of The Royal Oak, a quintessential pub in the heart of the Peak District, offering delicious food, local ales, and stunning scenery.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly