Spring Walking Weekend in the Peak District
Ready for a weekend of peaks, pints, and panoramic views? Join Ray of Sun Adventures from 10th–12th April 2026 for a three-day walking weekend in Hathersage, the perfect blend of adventure, connection, and self-care in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
Discover the Peaks at their springtime best as we explore rugged gritstone edges, tranquil gorges, and sweeping viewpoints that showcase the very essence of this stunning landscape. Each day, you’ll be guided by Janire – Mountain Leader and founder of Ray of Sun Adventures – ensuring the routes, pace, and vibes are just right for the group.
Between hikes, enjoy deli-fresh picnics, hearty pub dinners, and a post-walk dip at the Hathersage heated lido. It’s the ultimate Peak District escape – part adventure, part self-care, and all good vibes – the perfect way to shake off winter and welcome spring.
ACCOMMODATION: YHA Hathersage, Peak District
BOARD: Breakfast & lunch
DATES: 10-12 April 2026
WALK LEVEL: Intermediate (approx. 8-14km per day, up to 400m ascent per day)
PRICE: £450 per person
INCLUDED
- 2 nights’ accommodation at YHA Hathersage
- Breakfast and packed lunch each day
- Guided walks with qualified Mountain Leaders
- Supportive, friendly group atmosphere
- Optional wild swim and lido visit (payable locally)
NOT INCLUDED
x Transport to/from Hathersage
x Dinners (Friday & Saturday – payable locally)
x Entry to Hathersage Lido (optional)
ITINERARY
Day 1
Padley Gorge & Owler Tor - 7km, 170m scent, 2.5 hours
We’ll meet at Grindleford Station Café at 2:30pm to kick off our Peak District adventure with a relaxed afternoon hike through Padley Gorge - a magical slice of temperate rainforest with tumbling waterfalls, mossy oaks, and the peaceful sounds of Burbage Brook.
We’ll wander through the woodland and up onto open moorland, where we’ll explore the gritstone formations of Owler Tor, perfect for a bit of fun climbing if the weather’s kind. Our route takes in Granby Discovery Barn, the ancient Carl Wark hill fort, and the peaceful waters of Longshaw Pond before looping back to Grindleford around 5pm.
Then it’s off to check in at YHA Hathersage, freshen up, and head out for dinner together.
Day 2
Higger Tor & Stanage Edge - 15km, 390m ascent, 6 hours
After breakfast, we’ll head straight out from the hostel for a big day exploring the rugged beauty of the Dark Peak. Our route takes us up to Higger Tor, with panoramic views across the Burbage Valley and the Iron Age hill fort of Carl Wark, before crossing Burbage Bridge and climbing to White Path Moss Trig Point - a wild, windy plateau with epic views.
From there, we’ll follow the famous Stanage Edge, a climber’s paradise and one of the Peak District’s most iconic ridgelines. We’ll reach the High Neb trig point before descending through peaceful bluebell woodlands (fingers crossed for blooms!).
There’s even an optional wild swim stop for anyone feeling brave, and after the walk, you can join the group for a dip at the Hathersage Lido - a heated open-air pool with views of Stanage Edge and the surrounding hills. (Entry payable locally.)
Dinner that evening will be at one of Hathersage’s cosy local pubs or restaurants.
Day 3
Bamford Edge & Ladybower Reservoir - 15km, 360m ascent, 5 hours
We’ll round off our weekend with a stunning riverside and moorland walk. Starting from Hathersage at 9am, we’ll follow the Derwent River Walk, crossing the stepping stones and meandering towards Ladybower Reservoir - a vast Y-shaped reservoir surrounded by peaceful valleys and forested hillsides.
From here, we’ll head up onto Bamford Moor (426m) for sweeping views across the Upper Derwent Valley before descending down Bamford Clough, one of the steepest tarmac roads in the UK - a memorable finale for the legs!
We’ll finish back at YHA Hathersage in the afternoon to say our goodbyes after three unforgettable days of exploring the best of the Peaks.
YOUR BASE
We’ll be based at the cosy YHA Hathersage, perfectly placed for walks straight from the doorstep. Breakfast will be taken there each morning, and we'll enjoy fresh deli lunches on the trails.
Evenings will be spent sharing stories and laughs over hearty pub meals - the perfect way to refuel after a day outdoors.
IMPORTANT BITS TO NOTE:
- To book and secure your place you'll need to pay a £100 deposit (full balance is due 6 weeks before the start date).
- You can pay the deposit by booking via the webpage and selecting Pay deposit only, or you can pay by bank transfer if you prefer.
- All travellers must complete a booking form, and confirm you have read and understood the booking conditions
- Payment plans are available upon request at no additional cost
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