Chrome Hill WALK and Parkhouse Hill
Last updated: May 2023
Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill are remarkable limestone formations that command attention with their towering presence. These majestic hills are a sight to behold.
This challenging walk along the Dragon’s Back will reward you with breathtaking panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Remember to bring your camera, as the vistas from the summit are truly awe-inspiring! It’s no wonder photographers hold a special affection for this area of the Peak District. The rugged silhouette of the Dragon’s Back ridge serves as a magnificent backdrop for landscape photography throughout the year.
A prime starting point for the Chrome Hill Walk is a 400-year-old pub (The Quiet Woman) with hand-painted signs of a decapitated barmaid located in the village of Earl Sterndale, near Buxton. Take the path behind the pub across the fields. For those seeking adventure, Parkhouse Hill awaits, offering an exhilarating experience. Its towering limestone cliffs and narrow ridge provide a thrilling scramble for the brave. Ascend over limestone hummocks, pass through a hand gate beneath a tree, and continue your climb to reach the summit ridge of Chrome Hill.
As you wander along its winding footpaths, you’ll be surrounded by picturesque views of the rolling hills and lush green meadows that define this region. So, lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the wonders of Chrome Hill, the Dragon’s Back, and Parkhouse Hill. Come and discover the magic for yourself.
chrome hill walk route
- 3.5 miles / 5km
- 2:00 hours
- Moderate
- Start at Earl Sterndale Village (SK17 0BU)
- Family Friendly (Caution around the Cliffs)
- Dog Friendly
- Toilets (Longnor public toilets SK17 0NT)
- No Car Park
- The Quiet Woman Pub is closed
chrome hill walk map
Ordnance Survey
The OS Maps online map system is brilliant. Accurate, reliable, and easy to use! If you have OS Maps Premium, you can 3D fly through the route, generate a PDF and print out the route information.
Download Route PDF
I've created an 'OpenStreetMap' view of the route along with ///what3words waypoints. See below for more detail.
Exercise caution when traversing the Yellow areas, as they consist of steep, gravelly paths and cliffs
Getting to chrome hill walk
Visiting by Car
If you’re driving, Earl Sterndale is located just off the B5053, which connects to the A515 to Buxton
The is only street parking. Postcode: SK17 0BU
The Peak District National Park boasts a comprehensive public transportation system, allowing visitors to explore the region without a car.
Getting to the Peak District couldn’t be easier by train or bus, and regular services link many of the area’s most popular destinations. And in the summer months, you can try out the new hop on, hop off Hope Valley Explorer
Visiting by Bus
Several bus services are available to reach most areas of the Peak District. While some services run daily and hourly, others may have a lower frequency or operate only on weekends and holidays. The Ashbourne – Hartington – Buxton 442 has an hourly service to Earl Sterndale
The Peak District bus map displays most of the routes within the region. In addition, the Peak District National Park have compiled a list of bus routes that offer an eco-friendly way of accessing the numerous attractions, towns, and villages. You can also view timetables for bus services not listed on Peak District National Park website.
Accommodation
How to Navigate the chrome hill walk
We are fortunate in the Peak District that most of our footpaths and bridleways are well-maintained and well-signposted, however, I recommend an Ordnance Survey Map (and Compass) when walking in the Peak District.
Phone Apps aren’t an alternative to a paper map; it’s a convenient tools alongside a map. Technology fails, batteries run out, and relying on a phone’s GPS for navigation can be helpful but unreliable.
If you are unfamiliar with map reading, I have a few options here for getting up to speed quickly. If you want to use a phone app alongside a map, I recommend a small, lightweight charging bank to keep your phone fully charged.
Depending on your skills and convenience, here are a few navigational options.
Option 1. What3Words
The route has been divided into waypoints, each represented by a unique three-letter word. This method works best in areas with clearly marked footpaths and bridleways. It provides a quick and easy way to determine the direction to take when faced with multiple path options
W3W divided the world into 3-metre squares, giving each square a unique combination of three words. It’s the easiest way to find and share
your exact location and navigating while walking towards a particular landmark, destination or waypoint.
Option 2. OS Maps App
I’ve been hiking for more than 20 years, and back in the day, we had paper maps. But now, technology has come a long way, and you can download a map using an app straight to your phone.
Over the years, I’ve tried several apps, but my go-to app is OS Maps.
I really do recommend subscribing to access the full range of features and more detailed maps. The Premium Subscription (£28.99) is a no-brainer if you are a keen walker. However, if you are on holiday in the Peaks, then the Monthly Subscription (£4.99) might be best.
How to use OS Maps
This video will take you through using OS Maps to find routes, plan your own, print them off and much more. Click Here
Important: Download the Offline Map before starting.
Regardless of which option you choose, you will need an OS paper map. Technology fails, batteries run out, and relying on a phone’s GPS for navigation can be helpful but unreliable.
Map of The Peak District – White Peak Area
Kinder Scout, Bleaklow, Black Hill & Ladybower Reservoir
OS Explorer Map OL 01 – OL1 1:25 000
Buy OS Explorer Maps direct from Ordnance Survey.
You don’t have to be a professional hiker to enjoy the peaks; plan ahead, show some respect, leave without a trace and Have Fun!
More Walks on OutHiking STANAGE EDGE WALK, MAM TOR WALK & WINNATS PASS, CHROME HILL AND PARKHOUSE HILL WALK
PLEASE NOTE: The walking routes outlined on Outhiking.co.uk are not without risk and are taken at the reader’s responsibility. It is essential that walkers take into account their physical fitness level and equip themselves with appropriate footwear and clothing, as well as food and drink. It is also advisable to take the relevant Ordnance Survey map with you if you get lost and leave the area covered by our maps. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the route directions, Outhiking.co.uk / Nupush Ltd cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for changes in the details given. Furthermore, Nupush Ltd accepts no responsibility for any injuries or accidents that occur whilst following this walk.