Padley Gorge

Date of visit 11/09/2025

what3words: ///dance.thick.shelf

This was another walk we bought from the Peak District Kids website. It was billed as an family favourite, and having completed it, I can see why! The walk ticks so many boxes, and does make a great family walk.

We parked in the decent roadside parking area, it probably helped that we were visiting The Peaks slightly off-season and mid-week, as we had no trouble parking at all.

Little One had mentally, and physically got his walking boots on now and was enjoying our break. He had got used to doing a lot of walking in the past, but had always had his special needs pushchair to fall back on, when needed. However, the pushchair had recently suffered some damage, and was unusable while we were away. He coped remarkably well without the chair, but we will endeavour to get it fixed for future outings!

The walk starts following the path downhill and over Burbage Brook via the wooden bridge. I like these casual walks, where we are able to talk, amongst our party, about subjects that come up on the day!

My first subject of the day was, what is the difference between a brook and a river. Between us we came to the conclusion that it was mainly due to the size and volume of water - back home after the walk a quick Google search proved us right. As I like to say "every day's a school-day"!

The path following the stream was a mixture of sandy areas, inter-twined with sections of small rocks and slabs. Clearly the walk wouldn't be any good for a child needing the use of wheels, but should be achievable for  those without pronounced mobility issues.

As promised in the purchased walk details, there are areas to get your feet wet (the water was very cold) and trees and boulders to climb, for the kids, obviously!

The walk takes in more woodland and easy pathways, before coming to the Longshaw Estate, which is a National Trust property. The route then skirts the edge of the property and continues on. We did bring our National Trust membership cards with us, although as it turns out, it is possible to use the cafe and toilet facilities without being NT members. Oh well, better to be prepared, I guess...

The walk finishes with an easy stroll back to the start point, as the circular walk completes. At around 2km this isn't too taxing and had enough to keep the interest. You could also combine the walk with a visit to the National Trust Longshaw Estate, if so inclined. Of note, it's worth taking a towel to dry little ones feet if you can persuade them, or they you, to get into the freezing cold water!