The mighty "Mother Hill" and Winnats Pass Walk

mam tor walk & winnats pass

Last updated: May 2023

Embark on an Epic Adventure: Conquering the Majestic Mam Tor Walk

The Highlights of the Mam Tor Walk : Must-See Points of Interest Along the Trail

Ah, the magnificent Mam Tor Walk ! If you’re planning a trek in the Peak District, this iconic hill should definitely be on your list. Let me take you on a virtual tour of the highlights along the trail, so you can get a taste of what awaits you.

First up, we have the imposing Shivering Mountain itself. Aptly named for its tendency to crumble and shift over time, this geological wonder offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Legend has it that Mam Tor was once engaged in a battle with neighbouring Lose Hill, resulting in their eternal rivalry and ever-changing landscape.

As you make your way along the trail, keep an ear out for tales of ancient settlements that dot the Peak District. This area is steeped in history, with remnants of Iron Age hillforts and Roman forts sprinkled throughout. It’s like stepping back in time and imagining what life was like centuries ago.

Speaking of stories, folklore enthusiasts will delight in hearing about the myths and legends associated with Mam Tor. From tales of giants who once roamed these hills to mysterious lights dancing across the night sky, there’s no shortage of magical tales to spark your imagination.

Now, no trip along Mam Tor would be complete without paying a visit to Blue John Caverns. As we walk by these stunning underground caves adorned with rare mineral formations, prepare to have your breath taken away (and not just because of all that walking!). It’s like stepping into another world altogether.

And let’s not forget about Winnats Pass Walk ! This natural wonder is truly something special. As we meander through its narrow limestone gorge, surrounded by towering cliffs on either side, you can’t help but feel humbled by Mother Nature’s handiwork.

But wait, there’s more! Just a stone’s throw away from Mam Tor lies Peveril Castle, perched proudly atop a limestone cliff. This medieval fortress offers stunning views and a glimpse into England’s rich heritage.

Finally, as you reach Castleton at the end of your mam tor ridge walk adventure (and beginning it), treat yourself to some well-deserved refreshments at one of its charming pubs or tea rooms. After all, conquering hills works up quite an appetite!

So there you have it – just some highlights along the Mam Tor walk that make it an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking a scenic adventure, this trail has it all. Lace up your walking shoes and let Mam Tor work its magic on you!

Mam Tor Walk Route

Mam Tor Walk map

GETTING TO Mam Tor

Visiting by Car

If you’re driving, Castleton is located just off the A6187, which connects the village to Sheffield and Manchester.

There are two Car Parks – Castleton Car Park (HPBC) Postcode: S33 8WH.

Peak Cavern Car Park, Postcode: S33 8WN.

It can be extremely busy on the weekends. Car park charges can be found Peak District National Park

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.

Sheffield – Hathersage – Bradwell – Castleton

Service 271/272 links Sheffield with the scenic Hope Valley, terminating at the well-known village of Castleton with its many shops, cafes and attractions. There’s lots to see and do along the way too, as the bus travels across Sheffield Moor, down through the village of Hathersage which nestles below the famous climbing crags of Stanage Edge. From here it continues through Bamford and Hope, allowing access to some excellent walking and the scenic Derwent Valley. Roughly hourly every day.

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.

And don’t forget Traveline – a public transport route planner service provided by a partnership between local authorities and transport operators in the UK.

Visiting by Train

The Peak District all have regular intercity rail services from destinations across the country. From these cities, it’s easy to make onward journeys into the Peak District by train.. You can catch:

The Hope Valley Line between Manchester and Sheffield (Northern Railway) gives direct access to spectacular Peak District scenery, with stations at Grindleford, Hathersage, Bamford, Hope and Edale.
To the south is the Derwent Valley Line from Derby to Matlock (East Midlands Railway), from where regular bus services will take you to picturesque villages and dales in the White Peak, including the market town of Bakewell.
To the west is the Manchester to Glossop line (Northern Railway). Glossop has the Dark Peak moorlands grandeur of Bleaklow and Kinder Scout nearby; from Padfield station one can set off on the Longdendale Trail.
Also to the west is the Manchester to Buxton line (Northern Railway). From Buxton regular bus services will take you to villages and dales in the White Peak, or to explore the varied scenery of the Staffordshire Moorlands.
To the north is the Manchester to Huddersfield line (TransPennine Express), stopping on the way at Greenfield and Marsden for access to Dove Stones and the Wessenden Moors.

Train times and fares

Cafes

Pubs

Mam Tor / castleton Accommodation

Why not bag yourself a bargain?

Booking.com

How to Navigate the Mam Tor 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 – Dark Peak Area (Includes Mam Tor)

Buxton, Bakewell, Matlock & Dove Dale
OS Explorer Map OL 24 – OL24 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.