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Main Instructor:

Sam Armstrong

Hosted By:

Sam Armstrong

Walk Description:

Saturday Explorer 4-hour walk 

Starting from the peaceful village of Litton, this circular walk offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, local history, and limestone landscape.

The route begins by dropping into Cressbrook Dale, a stunning National Nature Reserve known for its steep, rugged limestone cliffs and rich biodiversity. In spring and summer, the dale comes alive with wildflowers, including cowslips, orchids, and harebells.

Keep an eye out for butterflies, woodland birds, and possibly even a soaring buzzard overhead. A highlight of this section is Peter’s Stone, a dramatic limestone outcrop standing sentinel in the dale, with fascinating local folklore and fantastic photo opportunities.

From here, the path winds onward into the softer scenery of Tideswell Dale, where a well-maintained trail leads you through woodland, open glades, and past informative wildlife panels. This section of the walk is a haven for birds, butterflies, and seasonal flora, offering a gentle contrast to the rugged drama of Cressbrook.

The route then returns you to Litton, where a warm welcome (and possibly a pint or hearty lunch) awaits at the ever-popular Litton pub – advance booking recommended, especially on weekends.

Good to know: Moderate walking with a few short climbs and uneven sections.

The Litton pub offers a great post-walk meal – book ahead with Sam to avoid disappointment.

This walk includes two National Nature Reserves

Distance: 10.8km

Time 4 hrs

Ascent: 380m  

Any cancellations made 24 hours before the walk won't be refunded so please do not self-cancel.

Location Notes:

Road parking