Western Valley Circular
This route starts and ends at Edale Train Station. Please leave your car at home.
You can of course join the route anywhere that’s convenient for you. The below OS Route link will load in a web browser and in a standard map format. For a topographical map you will need to have the OS Maps app which you can download here. You will need appropriate software to use the GPX file linked below. All our maps and routes are provided with best intentions, are intended to support you on your hike and are appropriate to the best of our knowledge.
It is vital that you do your own research, take a map and make decisions that are best for you and your group. Remember, it is best you do not rely on your phone to navigate the hills around Edale. It is easy to get lost and service can be patchy at best.
If you or anyone you meet needs assistance, call 999 and ask for the POLICE then MOUNTAIN RESCUE once you've been put through. Then stay in the same spot until they call you back.
Pay attention to signage, take your rubbish home and please respect the working farms, delicate flora, fauna and the local community.
The West Valley Circular Edale walk is a great mid-length walk that’s perfect for all the family. As always in Edale there is occasional tricky terrain and some rough paths so appropriate footwear and a good level of fitness come recommended.
This walk will take you 3-5 hours depending on your fitness levels and how many stops you make. There’s a series of waterfalls and pools at the turn of Crowden Brook so you could easily pack a picnic and make this a full day out.
You’re never particularly high on this walk, but the views are none-the-less spectacular. You follow the Pennine Way beneath Broadlee Bank and, careful not to take the path to Barber Booth, cut right and up onto a shelf that takes you past beautiful woodlands and fern-filled fields to Crowden. The map is slightly deceiving as, once you pass Dalehead you don’t need to scale the hill to come down Chapel Gate. You can cut across past the barn (circled green) and over the stile.
Once you’re on the short stretch of road back to Barber Booth you can either follow the signs to the train station or cut right toward Small Clough for better views of Kinder Scout on your final mile.
We recommend taking a map, compass and plenty of food and water. If you’re planning on stopping for a dip at Crowden, why not make a day of it and back a picnic!
