4.5
(1452)
8,805
hikers
12
hikes
Hiking around Brown Edge, located in North Staffordshire, UK, offers diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. The region features prominent water bodies like Knypersley Reservoir and Serpentine Lake, which are central to many routes. Marshes Hill Common, a Local Nature Reserve, provides expansive views across the Staffordshire Moorlands with its rare heathland and millstone grit terrain. The area also includes woodlands, open fields, and gritstone gorges, providing varied hiking experiences.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
4.8
(36)
240
hikers
5.44km
01:28
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(15)
36
hikers
8.90km
02:28
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(8)
21
hikers
7.58km
02:06
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
33
hikers
2.25km
00:36
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
3.05km
00:49
30m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Amazing little find whilst on the walk... makes you wonder!
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Such a great spot to visit. Pack a picnic as there are plenty of benches around to have a break and take in these beautiful views.
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Great little spot adjacent the car park to have a break. Wheelchair accessible table provided.
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Great little dam wall separating the two bodies of water.
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Information Board about Heritage Trail and Paths around Knypersley Reservoir
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A real hidden gem and definitely worth a visit. Nestled within rocky outcrops and woodland the atmosphere at this spot is incredibly peaceful and soothing.
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A trout hatchery was built to spawn, hatch and grow trout until they were large enough to be released into Knypersley Reservoir ready for fishing. The hatchery is now unused and overgrown, but an investigation using LiDAR (remote sensing technology) revealed the brick built structure (as detailed on the 'Knypersley Hall Estate' information board). N.B. The structure was perfectly visible when I visited (March 2022) but may be more overgrown in the summer months.
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Brown Edge offers a good selection of hiking trails, with over 10 routes available for you to explore. These range from easy strolls to more moderate walks with varied terrain.
The terrain around Brown Edge is quite diverse. You'll encounter open fields, ancient woodlands, gritstone gorges carved by streams, and the elevated heathland of Marshes Hill Common. Many routes also feature scenic paths around water bodies like Knypersley Reservoir and Serpentine Lake.
Yes, Brown Edge has several easy routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. An excellent option is the Lovers' Tree – Knypersley Reservoir loop from Brown Edge, which is just over 2 km. Another easy choice is the Serpentine Lake – Knypersley Reservoir loop from Brown Edge, offering pleasant views around the water.
Many of the trails in Brown Edge are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular loop options include the Serpentine Lake – Gawton's Cave loop from Brown Edge and the longer Knypersley Reservoir – Serpentine Lake loop from Brown Edge.
Absolutely. The area is rich in natural beauty and historical points of interest. You can explore the historic Knypersley Tower, discover Gawton's Cave, or visit the peaceful Gawton's Well Waterfall near Serpentine Lake. Marshes Hill Common also offers expansive views across the Staffordshire Moorlands and is a Site of Biological Importance. Additionally, Greenway Bank Country Park features a castellated tower and an ancient well.
Yes, Brown Edge offers several family-friendly trails, particularly the easier loops around Knypersley Reservoir and Serpentine Lake. These paths are generally well-maintained and provide engaging scenery without significant elevation challenges, making them suitable for walks with children.
Generally, dogs are welcome on the hiking trails around Brown Edge. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland, near livestock, or in nature reserves like Marshes Hill Common, to protect wildlife and ensure safety.
Parking is typically available at key starting points for popular trails, such as near Knypersley Reservoir or Greenway Bank Country Park. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot or local signage.
Brown Edge offers enjoyable hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings blooming heathland on Marshes Hill Common and active wildlife. Summer provides pleasant conditions for longer walks. Autumn showcases beautiful foliage in the woodlands, and even winter can be rewarding with crisp air and unique views, though some paths might be muddy.
Yes, you can find a few waterfalls in the vicinity of Brown Edge. The Waterfall Near Heaton and Parkhall Lake and Waterfall are notable spots. The Gawton's Well Waterfall is also a peaceful feature along the Serpentine Lake routes.
The trails in Brown Edge are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, the scenic beauty of the reservoirs, and the variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels.
While Brown Edge doesn't feature 'difficult' graded trails, there are several moderate routes that offer more significant elevation changes and longer distances for experienced hikers. The The Grotto and Gene's Grave – Serpentine Lake loop from Brown Edge is a good example, covering 7.6 km with varied terrain.


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