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United Kingdom
England
East Midlands
Derbyshire
Derbyshire Dales

Atlow

Easy hikes and walks around Atlow

4.6

(3300)

24,058

hikers

451

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Atlow, located in Derbyshire, offer diverse landscapes for outdoor exploration. The region features notable natural attractions such as Carsington Water, known for its reservoir views and accessible paths. Hikers can also find gritstone outcrops like Black Rocks and the distinctive Thorpe Cloud hill, providing varied terrain. The area is characterized by a mix of water features, woodlands, and gentle hills, making it suitable for a range of easy walking experiences.

Best easy hiking trails around Atlow

Last updated: May 3, 2026

4.5

(19)

348

hikers

#1.

Roadford Lake Dam – Carsington Water loop from Hognaston

5.76km

01:32

50m

60m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Zena
March 15, 2026, Animal Sculpture Chair

A lovely chair with hedgehogs, squirrel and owl facing a circle of mushrooms

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Planning for the reservoir started in the 1960s and construction started in 1979. In 1984, there was a partial collapse of the dam before it was filled. The dam was removed before the construction of a new dam began in 1989. The finished reservoir was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1992.

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Terry
October 10, 2024, Draw Off Tower

This tower was initially a mystery to us, but we later discovered that it houses the pumping system for the water. It also looks quite cool floating on the water.

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The strong winds are very powerful across the dam wall. Those who cycle with children may want to use the road for the dam wall section on these occasions.

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this side of the lake can get hard on your legs if your out off form/out of practice - take a break at the sculpture. really good ride for both gravel bike and XC bike going around this reservoir.

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really good ride experience going around carsington - the east side is packed with short climbs n downs, west side is mostly flat with refreshment stops. the main visitor centre is pricey compared to the other options

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much cheaper than the main visitor centre at carsington

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Stu Preston
September 20, 2022, Carsington Water

this is the flat part of the tour - welcome relief from the undulated leg warming sections on the other side of the water

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Atlow?

There are over 200 easy hiking trails around Atlow, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and fitness levels. The region is well-suited for relaxed outdoor exploration.

What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Atlow?

Easy hikes around Atlow feature diverse landscapes, including reservoir paths, gentle hills, and varied woodlands. You'll find accessible routes around places like Carsington Water, as well as paths near gritstone outcrops and picturesque river valleys.

Are there family-friendly easy hiking options in Atlow?

Yes, many of the easy trails around Atlow are suitable for families. The paths around Carsington Water, for instance, are generally accessible and offer scenic views. Routes like the Troll's Bridge – Roadford Lake Dam loop from Hognaston CP are short and provide a pleasant walk for all ages.

Can I bring my dog on easy hikes in Atlow?

Many trails in the Atlow area are dog-friendly, especially those around Carsington Water and through the woodlands. It's always a good idea to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves, and to check specific trail regulations if available.

Are there easy circular routes available?

Yes, the region offers numerous easy circular routes. Popular options include the Roadford Lake Dam – Carsington Water loop from Hognaston CP, which is 3.4 miles long, and the Carsington Water – Carsington Water loop from Hognaston CP, covering 3.0 miles.

What notable natural features or landmarks can I see on easy hikes?

You can explore several interesting natural features. The area around Dovedale offers the picturesque Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove. You might also encounter gritstone outcrops like Black Rocks, which provide expansive views, or the distinctive conical hill of Thorpe Cloud.

How long do easy walks around Atlow typically take?

Easy walks around Atlow typically range from just over an hour to around two hours. For example, the Troll's Bridge – Roadford Lake Dam loop takes about 1 hour 4 minutes, while the Carsington Carved Hut – Kirk Ireton Village loop is closer to 2 hours.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Atlow?

The trails around Atlow are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the scenic reservoir views, the well-maintained paths, and the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands and gentle hills.

Are there cafes or pubs near the easy hiking trails in Atlow?

Yes, the area around Atlow and Carsington Water offers amenities. You can find cafes and pubs in nearby villages like Kirk Ireton, which is part of the Carsington Carved Hut – Kirk Ireton Village loop, providing convenient stops for refreshments.

What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Atlow?

The region is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, especially around Carsington Water, while winter walks can be serene, though some paths might be muddy.

Are there any easy trails that offer great viewpoints?

Absolutely. While many easy trails offer pleasant scenery, for expansive views, consider routes that provide glimpses of Carsington Water or paths that ascend slightly. From areas like Black Rocks, you can get glorious views towards Matlock Gorge and the Derwent Valley.

Where can I find parking for easy hikes around Atlow?

Many popular starting points for easy hikes, especially around Carsington Water, have dedicated car parks. For example, several routes mentioned, such as the Roadford Lake Dam – Carsington Water loop, start from Hognaston CP (Car Park), indicating convenient parking availability.

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