THE WALK

This refreshing Peak District walk takes in a beautiful contrast of woodland and open moorland, making it ideal for a New Year reset and a chance to clear the cobwebs. Beginning near Padley Gorge, the route winds through a deeply wooded valley alongside Burbage Brook, where mossy trees, rocky streams and waterfalls create a calm, restorative atmosphere.

Leaving the gorge, the walk climbs out onto the Longshaw Estate and surrounding moorland before reaching Owler Tor. Here, striking gritstone formations and wide-ranging views offer a rewarding sense of space and perspective. The route blends woodland paths, grassy tracks and rocky sections, before looping back towards the starting point.

This walk will be led by M2M Ambassador Adam Raja alongside M2M Volunteer Lead Jonny Norton, offering a supportive and welcoming environment for anyone looking to start the year with fresh air, good company and time to reset in nature.

DATE

Saturday 17th January 2026

MEET & FINISH POINT

National Trust Car Park - Longshaw Estate - Woodcroft // Start: 9 am // Finish: around 12:30 pm

WALK DURATION

2.5-3 hours (approx)

DISTANCE

7.97 km

TOTAL ASCENT

260 m

TERRAIN

Woodlands, moorland and rocky paths (could be wet/icy/windy depending on weather).

ROUTE MAP

View or download the full route profile on Komoot here. 

ACCESSIBILITY

This walk is recommended for experienced hikers, as the route could be wet, icy or windy and is considered to be difficult!

GATHER

We may have a stop in Grindleford, Hope Valley (sorted on the day) which we may visit following the walk for coffee and chat!

PARKING

The closest car park is Woodcroft car park, off the A 6187 (Owler Bar Road). 

Follow brown signs from Sheffield to Woodcroft car park. You can find alternative parking at Wooden Pole car park, approximately 1 mile on foot from the visitor centre, and Haywood car park, approximately 2 miles on foot from the visitor centre.

Please note, Google Maps may direct you via a private residential entrance to Longshaw Lodge. Please ensure you are following directions to visitor car parks, rather than following Google maps to Longshaw Lodge.

• What3Words locations: Woodcroft car park: /// using.belts.slurs

More information here.

FACILITIES

The toilets are located close to the café and are open daily on the National Trust site. More information here. 

GUEST LEAD

M2M Ambassador - Adam Raja 

WALK SUPPORT

M2M Volunteer - Jonny Norton

BRING

Walking footwear (sturdy hiking boots or outdoor trainers), breathable layers, a waterproof, walking poles (optional), snacks to keep you going and a bottle of water.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• A guided walk led by a trained Together Outdoors Leader
• A safe space to share (with no obligation)
• Gentle support from an experienced coach
• An opportunity to  connect with others in nature
• A chance to boost your endorphins, and share some laughs along the way.

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

• Travel to the meeting point or individual travel organisation
• Food & drink during or after the walk
• Mental health crisis support (please seek urgent help via the NHS website if you are in need)
• Walking kit (if you are on a low income, we recommend contacting Kitsquad, who can support you)

FAQS

Who is this walk open to?

• Anyone who would like to join! Whether you are a member of the M2M community, you're an M2M Beneficiary or you're completely new to M2M, we'd love to have you with us! You don't have to be struggling with your mental health to join our events, but if you are, we welcome you. Just come with an open heart and a willingness to connect. We can't wait to meet you!

Do I need to sign up?

• Yes, registration is essential for each individual joining the walk!  Please register by noon on the 15th of January.

Can I bring my dog? 

• Yes! As long as they are well behaved and kept on a lead.
  

Is this a kid-friendly event?

•  We wouldn't recommend children join on this more difficult hike.

Can I join if I’m not the fastest walker?

• Absolutely! Together Outdoors is about community, not competition. We always look out for each other and only move as fast as the slowest person. If the group is large, it may spread out naturally, but we'll all stay together as a group. Breaks will always be factored in to keep everyone moving as closely together as possible. 

COST

There is no cost to join. If you'd like to add a donation and support us, please feel free!

We are committed to providing free events where possible to our community, as we believe financial barriers shouldn't stand in the way of participation. If you are in a position to make a donation when registering, your contribution will go a long way towards sustaining the charity's mission and helping to support someone else who is more in need. Thank you!

CONTACT

If you have any questions, please email [email protected].