Pilsbury Castle via Upper Dove Valley Circular Walk

The Pilsbury Castle via Upper Dove Valley Circular Walk will take you through an absolutely beautiful stretch of countryside that encompasses the many farms, villages, and forests that make up this charming part of the Peak District. Due to the many undulating hills that can be found in the area, walkers will be exposed to several steep climbs and some rocky stretches of trail. Make sure to wear proper walking footwear to better traverse the terrain. Additionally, this walk features some terrain that might not be suitable for dogs to travel on.

Setting out from the village of Hartington, follow Stonewell Lane to the west for a short distance before picking up the trail on your right to cut across the countryside. From here, walkers will traverse the open farmland terrain and cross over the River Dove before climbing up the hillside. Reaching the top of the hill, follow the path north to enjoy some scenic views across the Upper Dove Valley as you make your way towards Pilsbury Castle.

After crossing over the River Dove, follow the trail towards the southeast as you follow closely along the edge of the flowing water. Eventually, you will come to the site of Pilsbury Castle, a Norman Conquest Era fortification built in the motte-and-bailey style. After taking in the views across the valley, continue along the trail to make your way past the village of Pilsbury.

Once you have passed by the charming village, keep south along the path as it cuts across the many farms that characterize the charming Derbyshire countryside. Eventually, the trail will begin to descend the hillside and bring you back to the village of Hartington where you began.

Other amazing walks in Peak District National Park

Check out our guides to Kinder Scout, Mam Tor, Stanage Edge, Dovedale, and Padley Gorge. Or see all of our Peak District walks on 10Adventures.