Mam Tor Circular Walking Route from Castleton
A guide to exploring the Peak District’s Mam Tor Ridge walk and Winnats Pass
Nestled in the heart of the Peak District National Park, Mam Tor offers a fun adventure for both seasoned hikers and casual strollers. This iconic circular walk starting in the village of Castleton, weaves through picturesque landscapes and offers incredible views of the Edale Valley and Derwent Moors. It often gets popular in the summer and the summit can get very crowded, no matter the weather.
Key routes stats:
Total Distance: 10.5 km
Location: The route starts and ends in the village of Castleton
Where to stay: There are plenty of places to stay or camp local to the area. Scroll down for more info.
The Mam Tor circular walk route
Mam Tor Circular Route
My routes takes you via Winnats Pass, up Mam Tor, along the Mam Tor ridge and then back down into Castleton. There are no toilets or shops on route but the village of Castleton has a few shops, cafes and toilets if you need to grab something before or after your walk.
Download the OS Map route below.
How long is the Mam Tor circular route?
The route is just over 10km and takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the pace.
1. Start from Castleton
The route starts from the village of Castleton. While there's parking available in the village center or along the road to Winnats Pass, spaces can be limited during busy times so it's best to arrive early to secure a spot.
Before starting your hike, grab a treat from Peveril Stores, a local bakery and village store known for their delicious pies and homemade cakes.
2. Ascend towards Winnats Pass
From Castleton, follow the road up towards Winnats Pass, a famous gorge known for its picturesque views. The gorge is a great place to watch sunrises and sunsets and is worth visiting throughout the year.
The footpath you’ll follow runs up the side of Winnats Pass, providing a view of both the Hope valley and the gorge below.
Point 2 on the OS map above.
3. Heading towards Mam Tor
After leaving Winnats Pass, make your way across the hill towards the start of the Mam Tor climb. The footpath is mostly clear in places but may be muddy underfoot.
4. The Mam Tor summit
Follow the stone steps from the road up towards the summit of Mam Tor. When you reach the top, pause to catch your breath and admire the breathtaking panoramic vistas. From here, you can see for miles in every direction, with sweeping views of the Edale Valley, Kinder Scout and the village of Castleton below.
Point 3 on the OS map above.
5. Traverse the ridge
Make your way down from the summit of Mam Tor and follow the stone path north along the ridge. As you head down, you’ll have views of Castleton to your right and the Edale valley to your left.
Point 4 on the OS map above.
6. Loose Hill view point
At approximately 7 kilometers into the hike, you'll reach the Lose Hill viewpoint, offering breathtaking vistas overlooking Mam Tor and the surrounding valley. This stunning vantage point presents a perfect opportunity to pause and admire the rugged peaks and lush landscapes below.
Point 5 on the OS map above.
6. Return to Castleton
Complete the loop by heading down towards Castleton, where several inviting pubs await for a well-deserved post-walk dinner and drink. Among the recommended options are The Castle and The Bulls Head. These pubs not only offer excellent food but also boast cozy atmospheres, complete with roaring fires that provide the perfect ambiance for warming up on chilly winter evenings.
Location
Located in the heart of the Peak District National Park, the Mam Tor Circular route offers a scenic hike with some of the best views in the Peaks. Castleton, the starting point of the hike, is easily accessible by public transport, with a bus services connecting it to Sheffield, Hathersage and Bradwell (Service 271/272). Additionally, Castleton has plenty of parking facilities for those traveling by car.
There are several Air BnBs, campsites and other accommodation in the surrounding area. I personally recommend Ramblers Rest (a fantastic Air BnB) or if you fancy camping then I recommend either Newfold Farm Campsite or North Lees Campsite. I’ve stayed at them all and they have all offered a great place to stay when exploring the Peak District.
If you’re staying locally and fancy another walk, Ladybower Reservoir, Bamford Edge, Curbar Edge and Stanage Edge are all super close by.
Kit list for walking Mam Tor
Although a short walk, it's essential to bring appropriate clothing and footwear for the walk. Here's a list of essential items to bring:
Sturdy walking boots with good ankle support
You can get a decent pair of boots from Cotswold Outdoors, Mountain Warehouse or Blacks. You don’t need to spend a load of money, but anything with ankle support should do the job. I have the Scarpa Rush TRK Gore-Tex boots and they are fantastic!
Waterproof jacket and trousers - even in the summer, taking a waterproof jacket that offers protection from the wind is key
You don’t need to spend a lot of money, but if you are going to be hiking often then investing in a good waterproof may be a good idea
Warm layers (fleece, hat, gloves) - gloves come in handy when navigating rocky sections
Map and compass (and the ability to use them)
Food and water
Kendal Mint Cake is my favourite snack for any walk and is a famous snack still made in the Lake District
Sunscreen and Bug Spray
First aid kit - a small mix of plasters, Savalon (for bites and stings) and antiseptic wipes will do
Mobile phone (with a full battery) + portable charger.
I recommend any Anker Power Bank as they are reliable and well made. I use the USB-C 10,000 maH with 20W model. It charges my phone and watch when wild camping and is a great lightweight option.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Mam Tor Circular walk is a great day out for all and is one of the most scenic I’ve ever done.
Whether you're seeking breathtaking views, tranquil valleys, or simply a leisurely stroll amidst stunning scenery, this hike offers something for everyone. With its convenient location, accessible transport links, and delightful local shops and Cafes, it's no wonder that Mam Tor remains a beloved destination for many people.
