The Roaches: Majestic Rocky Ridge and Woodland in the Peak District
Explore The Roaches’ dramatic rocky ridge and enchanting woodland, a Peak District gem for hiking, climbing, and stunning panoramic views.
The Roaches is a striking rocky ridge near Leek, Staffordshire, offering dramatic cliffs, enchanting woodlands, and panoramic views over the Peak District. Popular for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife spotting, it features diverse walking routes ranging from short family-friendly trails to challenging all-day adventures. Visitors can explore scenic paths, boulder-strewn forests, and nearby natural wonders like Lud’s Church and Hen Cloud.
A brief summary to The Roaches
- Leek, ST13 8UA, GB
- Duration: 1.5 to 7 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
- Wear sturdy footwear as paths can be steep, rocky, and muddy, especially after rain.
- Take care near cliff edges; some drops have no protective barriers.
- Consider extending your hike to include Lud’s Church for a mystical rock chasm experience.
- Arrive early to find parking, as roadside spaces are limited and strictly enforced.
- Bring water and snacks; facilities nearby are limited, especially on the trails.
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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Car
Driving from Leek town center to The Roaches takes about 15-20 minutes. Parking is available in designated laybys along Roach Road, but spaces are limited and enforcement is strict, with fines for illegal parking. No parking fees apply. Suitable for visitors with private vehicles.
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Bus and Walking
Take the bus from Leek to the nearest stop on the A53, approximately 2.5 km from The Roaches entrance. From there, a 30-40 minute moderate walk along country lanes and footpaths leads to the start of the main trails. Bus services run hourly but check schedules for weekends.
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Taxi
Local taxis from Leek to The Roaches take around 15 minutes and cost approximately £10-£15. This option suits visitors without private transport or those seeking convenience. Availability may vary on weekends and evenings.
The Roaches 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
Discover more about The Roaches
A Natural Landmark of Dramatic Beauty
The Roaches is a prominent gritstone escarpment rising to 505 meters, making it one of the highest peaks in the Peak District. Its rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops create a striking silhouette visible from miles around. The ridge offers breathtaking panoramic views across Staffordshire, including Tittesworth Reservoir, and on clear days, sights extend as far as Cheshire and Mount Snowdon in Wales. The Roaches’ imposing presence has made it a beloved natural landmark and a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts.Varied Walking Routes for All Levels
Visitors to The Roaches can choose from multiple walking routes that vary in length and difficulty. Shorter trails provide family-friendly adventures with opportunities to scramble over huge boulders and explore enchanting forests. More challenging hikes, such as the 6.75-mile circuit including Lud’s Church, offer a full day of exploration through woodland valleys, rocky ridges, and mystical chasms. These routes showcase the area’s diverse landscapes and allow walkers to experience the thrill of steep climbs, panoramic ridge walks, and serene country lanes.Rich Wildlife and Geological Features
The Roaches area is rich in wildlife, including peregrine falcons that nest along the cliffs, as well as deer and wild ponies roaming the surrounding hills. The forested valleys are home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a rewarding destination for nature lovers. Geological features like Lud’s Church, a deep moss-covered chasm, add to the mystical atmosphere. The area’s gritstone formations also attract bouldering enthusiasts, making The Roaches a hub for rock climbers.Historical and Cultural Significance
The Roaches have long captured the imagination with myths and legends, including tales about Doxey Pool, a mysterious water body said to be inhabited by a mermaid. The presence of Rockhall Cottage, also known as the Don Whillans Memorial Hut, commemorates the legacy of the famous British climber. This blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage enriches the visitor experience, connecting people to the landscape’s stories and traditions.Visitor Experience and Amenities
The Roaches offers a mix of tranquil woodland paths and exhilarating ridge walks with steep drops and exposed edges, so caution is advised. The area is well-loved for its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and opportunities for photography. Nearby facilities include parking laybys (though parking can be limited and regulated), cafes, and information boards. The terrain can be muddy and uneven in places, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The site is open year-round, welcoming visitors seeking adventure or peaceful nature escapes.Access and Surrounding Attractions
Located near the market town of Leek in Staffordshire, The Roaches is accessible by car and public transport, with several walking routes starting from Roach Road. The area is part of the Peak District National Park, offering connections to other notable sites such as Hen Cloud and Lud’s Church. It is a favored destination for day trips, weekend getaways, and outdoor festivals, providing a rich blend of natural and cultural experiences.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
White Nancy
15.4 km
Historic hilltop folly offering sweeping Cheshire Plain views and a symbol of Bollington’s heritage and community spirit.
Bakewell Old House Museum
21.9 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.
Bakewell Bridge
22.3 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.
Peak District National Park Authority
22.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Rowtor Rocks
23.2 km
Discover breathtaking views and adventurous trails at Rowtor Rocks, a stunning natural wonder in the Peak District National Park.
Haddon Hall
23.4 km
Explore the enchanting Haddon Hall, a historical gem in the Peak District with stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and delightful dining experiences.
Brown Knoll
23.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Brown Knoll, a must-visit attraction in the Peak District, perfect for hiking, photography, and nature lovers.
Winnats Pass
23.6 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Winnats Pass, a limestone gorge in Hope Valley, where nature's wonders await every adventurer.
National Trust - Dark Peak
23.7 km
Discover the rugged beauty and rich history of the Dark Peak, a national park perfect for adventure and tranquility in the heart of the Peak District.
Blue John Cavern
23.9 km
Explore the enchanting Blue John Cavern in the Peak District, a breathtaking underground world filled with stunning geological wonders and rich history.
Treak Cliff Cavern
24.1 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Treak Cliff Cavern in Castleton, a natural wonder filled with stunning rock formations and rich geological history.
Croxden Abbey
24.2 km
Medieval Cistercian ruins revealing centuries of monastic life, prosperity, and spiritual devotion in rural Staffordshire.
Edale Cross
24.2 km
Medieval moorland monument marking the boundary of three historic forest wards and a symbolic waypoint on the Pennine Way.
Peak Cavern
24.4 km
Discover the wonders of Peak Cavern in the heart of the Peak District, where nature's beauty meets fascinating geological history.
Peveril Castle
24.4 km
Explore Peveril Castle, a stunning historical landmark in the Peak District, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into England's rich medieval heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lud's Church
3.0 km
Discover Lud's Church, a moss-clad sandstone chasm steeped in history, legend, and natural beauty on the edge of the Peak District.
Lud's Church
3.0 km
Explore Lud's Church, a moss-draped sandstone chasm rich in history, legend, and natural beauty in the heart of the Peak District.
Tittesworth Reservoir
3.7 km
A serene reservoir near Leek offering stunning Peak District views, rich wildlife, and diverse outdoor activities for all ages.
Rudyard Lake
7.0 km
Historic reservoir and serene Staffordshire retreat offering scenic walks, boating, fishing, and a charming miniature steam railway.
Sprinks Farm
9.6 km
Discover Sprinks Farm: a sustainable deer park and countryside retreat blending heritage, wildlife, and family-friendly experiences near Leek.
Solomon’s Temple
10.1 km
Explore Solomon's Temple, a historical landmark in Buxton, and enjoy breathtaking views and scenic hiking trails in the heart of the Peak District.
Go Ape Buxton
10.6 km
Experience thrilling high ropes adventures with stunning Peak District views at Go Ape Buxton’s treetop challenge.
Poole's Cavern
10.6 km
Explore the majestic limestone depths of Poole's Cavern and enjoy scenic woodland trails with panoramic views in Buxton Country Park.
Cheddleton Flint Mill
10.9 km
Explore the historic water-powered flint mill in Staffordshire that shaped the pottery industry, set in tranquil countryside surroundings.
Pavilion Gardens, Buxton
11.4 km
Explore Buxton’s Victorian jewel with 23 acres of landscaped gardens, historic architecture, family fun, and year-round cultural events.
Tegg's Nose Country Park
11.5 km
Explore rugged hills, panoramic views, and peaceful trails at Tegg's Nose Country Park, a wild escape near Macclesfield.
National Trust - Biddulph Grange Garden
11.7 km
Explore a Victorian horticultural masterpiece with themed gardens from around the world, set in Staffordshire’s scenic Biddulph Valley.
The Pavilion Gardens
11.7 km
A beautifully landscaped Victorian park in Buxton, perfect for family days out, peaceful walks, and lively events in the heart of the Peak District.
Buxton Visitor Centre & The Buxton Crescent Experience
11.8 km
Explore Georgian elegance and spa heritage in nine immersive rooms within Buxton's iconic restored Crescent.
Cavendish Arcade
11.9 km
Explore Buxton’s charming Cavendish Arcade, a historic Victorian shopping arcade blending heritage architecture with unique independent shops.
Essential places to dine
The Manifold Inn
11.0 km
Charming 3-star inn and restaurant in Hulme End, perfect for exploring the scenic Peak District and Manifold Valley trails.
The Bull I' Th' Thorn Pub & Pizzeria | Peak District
13.0 km
Historic Peak District pub and pizzeria in Buxton, cherished for its heritage, lively atmosphere, and scenic countryside setting.
The Stafford Arms
14.2 km
Historic 16th-century gastropub in Bagnall blending rustic charm with modern dining excellence and warm hospitality.
The Bulls Head
15.1 km
A beloved village pub in Monyash serving hearty British classics with generous portions in a warm, rustic setting.
La Popote Restaurant
16.0 km
Michelin Guide-listed French restaurant offering casual fine dining in a charming converted barn with a secret garden in Cheshire’s countryside.
The Lime Tree Restaurant and Wine Bar
16.1 km
Refined British dining with seasonal menus and expertly paired wines in the charming heart of Bollington.
Pecks Restaurant
17.0 km
A refined British dining experience in Cheshire, blending seasonal flavors with a theatrical tasting menu and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Bacchus Restaurant & Champagne Bar
17.2 km
Prestbury’s refined modern British dining with French flair, known for quality Sunday lunches and attentive service in a chic village setting.
The Hanging Gate
17.3 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 Paper Mill Inn
19.3 km
Charming historic country pub and inn in Whitehough, Peak District, renowned for real ales, seasonal food, and warm local hospitality.
Old Hall Inn
19.3 km
A charming Georgian inn in the Peak District offering refined pub dining, cozy rooms, and a warm welcome amid stunning countryside.
The Horse & Jockey
19.3 km
A cozy, traditional village pub and B&B in Tideswell offering hearty meals, warm fires, and comfortable rooms in the Peak District.
Derbyshire Eats
19.6 km
Experience refined dining and bespoke catering excellence in the charming village of Tideswell at Derbyshire Eats.
The Merchant's Yard
19.7 km
A charming boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant in Tideswell, blending historic character with seasonal Peak District cuisine.
Riverside House Hotel
20.2 km
A 5-star riverside retreat blending historic charm with Michelin-starred dining in the heart of the Peak District.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
High Peak Bookstore and Cafe
10.7 km
A charming independent bookstore and cozy café nestled in the scenic Peak District near Buxton, perfect for book lovers and casual visitors alike.
AWAKEN - Crystal & Spiritual Shop
11.4 km
Discover exquisite crystals and handcrafted spiritual jewellery at AWAKEN, Buxton’s premier metaphysical supply shop blending artistry with energy.
Jo Royle Outdoor
11.6 km
Discover quality outdoor gear and expert advice at Jo Royle Outdoor, Buxton’s beloved independent boutique for adventurers.
Fiveways Country Store
11.7 km
Charming family-owned shop in Buxton’s Market Place offering unique gifts and local artisan products in the heart of the Peak District.
Atticusboo
11.9 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at Atticusboo, Buxton’s charming independent boutique in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
Decor Boutique
11.9 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares in Buxton’s charming Decor Boutique, nestled in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
The Springs Shopping Centre
12.0 km
Buxton's central shopping hub with 450 parking spaces and popular high street chains.
Dress Cheshire
17.3 km
Prestbury’s trusted boutique for authenticated pre-loved designer fashion, blending luxury, sustainability, and community charm.
Ivie & luxe
18.1 km
A stylish boutique in Whaley Bridge offering unique clothing, gifts, and homewares with a local touch – perfect for thoughtful souvenirs and personal treats.
Sign of the Times Antiques ltd
18.3 km
Discover quirky antiques and vintage treasures at Sign of the Times Antiques Ltd, a unique shop in Stoke-on-Trent’s historic Burslem district.
Bluebird’s Nest UK
18.5 km
Handpicked gifts and treasures in the heart of the Peak District's historic market town.
The Potteries Centre
19.4 km
Staffordshire’s largest shopping and leisure destination with over 50 stores, dining, cinema, and community events all under one roof.
Festival Heights Retail Park
19.5 km
A modern, accessible retail park in Stoke-on-Trent offering diverse shopping options and convenient amenities for a seamless shopping experience.
Antique and Unique
20.1 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
Nike Clearance Store
20.6 km
Discover discounted Nike gear and footwear at Talke Retail Park’s dedicated clearance store in Stoke-on-Trent.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Lazy Trout
2.6 km
Experience authentic English countryside charm with hearty meals and fine ales at The Lazy Trout in Meerbrook.
Buxton Brewery Tap House & Cellar Bar
11.9 km
Lively flagship brewery bar in Buxton’s historic heart, serving fresh local beers and seasonal dishes in a rustic, welcoming setting.
San Pedro (By Santiago)
11.9 km
A vibrant Spanish wine bar and cocktail lounge in Buxton offering authentic tapas, fine wines, and a lively atmosphere.
DV8 Bar & Lounge
14.4 km
A vibrant bar and lounge in Congleton offering excellent cocktails, hearty food, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
No.41
16.0 km
A stylish pub in Milton, Stoke-on-Trent, known for its eclectic decor, craft ales, cocktails, and extensive gin selection.
Anglers Rest
17.3 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.
Star Inn
19.6 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
19.7 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Basement
19.7 km
Experience Stoke-on-Trent’s vibrant nightlife in the Basement, a cool underground bar and events venue in the heart of Hanley.
Red Lion Inn
20.1 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
The Swettenham Arms
20.6 km
Traditional Cheshire country pub with scenic gardens, classic British fare, and a charming wedding venue in the heart of Swettenham village.
The Packhorse Inn
20.6 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
The Botanist Alderley Edge
22.1 km
A lush botanical bar and grill in Alderley Edge blending seasonal cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music in a vibrant garden-inspired setting.
Wheatsheaf Pub and Pantry
22.2 km
Cozy Bakewell pub blending traditional charm with modern pantry dining, serving generous portions in a warm, dog- and child-friendly setting.
Castle
22.3 km
A classic Greene King pub in Bakewell serving hearty British fare in a warm, historic setting near the Peak District.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- 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
