10 Peak District Walks From Our Doorstep
One of the best things about staying at Press Brook Park is how much walking there is on your doorstep. Step out of your cabin or tent and you're already on a footpath. Within a short drive you have some of the finest walking countryside in England — the southern Peak District, ancient woodland, heritage trails, and reservoir circuits that feel completely removed from everyday life.
Here are ten of our favourite routes, ranging from a gentle 1.5-mile stroll to a full-day 12-mile challenge. We've walked them all. We keep printed guides in every cabin and tent, and we're always happy to point you in the right direction on arrival.
The Five Pits Trail - from 1 mile away
Distance: Up to 8.5 miles one way (or do a shorter out-and-back)
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Gravel path, suitable for buggies and bikes
Dogs: Yes, on lead near road crossings
The Five Pits Trail is literally on our doorstep — the trailhead is less than a mile from Press Brook Park. This former railway line has been converted into a traffic-free walking and cycling route through the Derbyshire countryside, passing through woodland and open fields past five former colliery sites. The full trail runs from Tibshelf to Grassmoor. For a relaxed morning walk, the Holmgate to Grassmoor section (about 3 miles return) is perfect. There's a café at Holmgate if you want to start with a coffee.
Local tip: Williamthorpe Nature Reserve connects directly to the trail and is one of the best birdwatching spots in the area — over 200 species recorded.
Grassmoor Country Park Loop
Distance: 3–5 miles (various routes)
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Terrain: Grassland paths, some uneven ground
Dogs: Yes, off lead in the park
Just 2 miles from Press Brook Park, Grassmoor Country Park offers a surprisingly varied landscape of meadows, woodland, and ponds on the site of a former colliery. Multiple loop options mean you can tailor the walk to your energy levels. The longer route takes in panoramic views across North Derbyshire. Great for families — the terrain is open and easy to follow, and there are picnic spots throughout.
Ogston Reservoir Circular
Distance: 4.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Terrain: Footpaths and quiet lanes
Dogs: Yes
About 5 miles from Press Brook Park, Ogston Reservoir is one of Derbyshire's best-kept secrets. The circular walk follows the reservoir edge through farmland with lovely open views across the water. The reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and an RSPB reserve, so birdwatchers will want their binoculars — great crested grebes, ospreys, and kingfishers have all been spotted here. The walk takes roughly 1.5–2 hours at a relaxed pace.
Linacre Reservoirs Walk
Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Wooded paths, some steps
Dogs: Yes, on lead near the water
Six miles from Press Brook Park, the three Linacre Reservoirs are tucked into ancient woodland and make for a peaceful, shaded walk — ideal on a warm summer day or an atmospheric autumn morning. The circular route links all three reservoirs through mature oak and beech woodland with the sound of running water throughout. Perfect for families with younger children — the paths are well-maintained and the loop is clearly waymarked