Kinder Downfall from Hayfield, Peak District, Derbyshire.
Distance: 9.5 miles (15.1 kilometers)
Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
Grade: Moderate
Map: OS Explorer OL1 - South Pennines
Walk summary
The Kinder Plateau is one of the dark peak's places of beauty which is a must on places to visit. Amongst the peat moorland is a scattering of uniquely weather shaped grit stone rocks and an impressive view of Kinder Reservoir.
The walks is a moderate walk over 9.5 miles (15.1 km), the pathway is well managed and easy to follow, though can be very soggy in places particularly after wet weather.
From Bowden Bridge the walk follows the old railway line which traces the northern shore of Kinder Reservoir, then a steady climb up William Clough, before turning south eastwards to the Kinder Downfall waterfall. The Downfall is a great place to have lunch or a picnic. Then continue on to Kinder Low Trig Point which sits on a peat bog, so can be a bit messy during the wet seasons, though there is a flag stoned path to follow passing some unique stone shapes carved by the wind in the grit stone. The views of the surrounding area are breath taking. The stepped descent down Kinderlow End is fairly steep and can be a bit slippery when wet. Then a short treck across the moorland to pick up the trail that moorland grazing fields. Pass through Tunstead Clough Farm and following the path along the River Sett back in to the village of Hayfield.
This route formed part of the venue of the 'mass trespass' of Kinder Scout in April 1932, which eventually changed public access rights and walking in Britain forever. In addition to walking a truly beautiful landscape, the walks also has an important historical significance to anyone who enjoys the freedom to roam England's green and pleasant land. The Pack Horse public house on Market Street, Hayfield is walker and dog friendly, though was closed on our visit which was a real shame.
There is a pay and display car park at with toilet facilities cross the road if you need them. But there is ample free parking along the roadside, between the car park and the Sportsman Public House.
