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.
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.
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.