The Edale Skyline (18 miles/29 km)
Annually the Edale Skyline is famous amongst fell runners as a tough winter event spanning 20 or so of the highest miles that the Peak District has to offer. Here I present a slightly shorter variation that allows you to start, and most importantly, finish at a 16th Century inn – the Cheshire Cheese in Hope. (Good for a post-walk dinner and certainly good for a post-walk ale). Taking in the best of the Dark Peak from the heights of Kinder Scout to the classic and many times photographed, Great Ridge this is truly up there as one of the Peak District’s best walks. If you have the miles in your legs, give this mighty wander a day of your time.
General Information
Start / Finish Location – The Cheshire Cheese Inn, Edale Rd, Hope, S33 6ZF
Distance: 18 miles / 29 km
Height gain: 3550 ft / 1082 m
How tough? Legs of steel required. This walk has everything, whopping hills, footpaths, sheep trods, rocky tracks, and man-eating bogs. But, for anyone that thinks they have said “legs of steel”, but which turn out to be something between “legs of jelly” and “legs of aluminium”, there is a great short-cut you can take, down Jacobs Ladder to get yourself back to the pub about six miles quicker than your mates!
Public Transport: Hope railway station / local buses
Personal experiences
For me one of my favourite walking weekends of the year is our Edale Skyline Walk from the Crookstone Barn. I think it’s the combination of a good day of proper exercise, endorphins, alcohol and good company that makes every year’s event a memorable one!
Further Reading/Information
Ten GREAT Peak District walks to do
Ten of the Best Peak District Mountain Biking Routes
The Tongue In Cheek History Of The Peak District
Recommended equipment / kit for walking in the UK
What to pack in your first aid kit
Accommodation in Castleton
Accommodation in Youlegrave
Hill and Mountain Weather Advice
Five Grade 1 Scrambles to Get You Started
Top Tips For Footcare
Top Tips to Get Your Children Walking
Walking boots: a new approach
