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West Midlands Region
Staffordshire
Staffordshire Moorlands

Leek

The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Leek

4.6

(855)

6,972

hikers

64

hikes

Family friendly hiking trails around Leek offer a diverse landscape at the edge of the Peak District National Park. The region is characterized by gritstone ridges, serene reservoirs, and winding river valleys. Hikers can explore woodlands, open meadows, and rolling hills, with waterways like the River Churnet and Leek Brook adding to the scenic variety. This varied terrain provides a range of options for families seeking outdoor activities.

Best family friendly hiking trails around Leek

  • The most popular family friendly hiking route is Tittesworth Reservoir – Tittesworth Reservoir loop from Leek, a 6.4 miles (10.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 49 minutes to complete. This scenic route offers views across the water of the reservoir.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Rudyard Lake and Steam Railway – Cliffe Park Hall loop from Leek, a moderate 11.0 miles (17.6 km) path. This route explores the woodlands surrounding Rudyard Lake and passes the historic steam railway.
  • Local hikers also love the Gun Hill Trig Point – Tittesworth Reservoir loop from Leek, an 11.1 miles (17.9 km) trail leading through open countryside with views from Gun Hill, often completed in about 5 hours 2 minutes.
  • Hiking around Leek is defined by gritstone ridges, tranquil reservoirs, and river valleys. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family walks to more challenging routes.
  • The routes in Leek are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 790 reviews. More than 6,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Leek's varied terrain.

Last updated: July 1, 2026

4.8

(107)

1,159

hikers

#1.

Tittesworth Reservoir – Tittesworth Reservoir loop from Leek

10.3km

02:49

160m

160m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

cheshire cheese
January 31, 2026, Leek Tunnel Pool

a short sharp climb up over the top and a pleasant run down the other side towards leek

1

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Great view up the lake from the dam, easy access to the Rudyard railway, lovely ice creams etc from the cafe

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Meerbrook was originally a chapel of the large ecclesiastical parish of Leek and its chapel building was in existence by 1537. The present parish church of St Matthew was designed by the architect, R. Norman Shaw and built in two phases in 1870 and 1873.

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The source of the river is located over 1,000 feet (300 m) above sea level in the Staffordshire moorlands, near the gritstone escarpment of the Roaches. After flowing downhill for a few miles it reaches Tittesworth Reservoir, a major supplier of fresh water to the Potteries and Leek. After it leaves the dam at Tittesworth, it flows into the ancient market town of Leek, where it was used to aid the manufacture of dyes that were used in the town's textile and silk industries.

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Tittesworth is the second largest reservoir by volume in the county of Staffordshire. The Peak District Boundary Walk runs past the reservoir.

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Graham
August 9, 2025, Wallaby Sculpture

This wallaby is part of a trail around the Staffordshire Moorlands and will be present from July to September 2025.

0

0

A nice stop off for a freshly cut roll and a cup of tea

0

0

Enjoy a quick rest and take a few photos on the giant wooden chair and sofa.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Leek?

The Leek area offers a fantastic selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 50 routes, with more than 15 specifically rated as easy, making them ideal for families with children of all ages.

Are there easy walks suitable for toddlers or strollers?

Yes, many trails around Leek are suitable for families with younger children or strollers. Look for routes around Rudyard Lake or Tittesworth Reservoir, which often feature flatter, well-maintained paths. Ladderedge Country Park, just outside Leek, also has flatter sections along the River Churnet.

What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes near Leek?

Family hikes around Leek offer a diverse range of landscapes, from serene reservoir paths and tranquil woodlands to open moorlands with stunning views. You'll encounter gritstone ridges, winding river valleys, and picturesque lakes, all within the beautiful Staffordshire Moorlands at the edge of the Peak District National Park.

What is the best time of year for family hikes in Leek?

Spring and summer are wonderful for family hikes, with warmer weather and blooming wildflowers. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, clear days with unique frosty landscapes, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Are there any trails with waterfalls suitable for families?

Yes, the picturesque area of Three Shires Head, where Cheshire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire meet, features charming waterfalls and a historic packhorse bridge. It's a popular spot for families to explore and enjoy the natural beauty.

Can we find trails around lakes or reservoirs?

Absolutely! The area is rich with scenic water bodies. You can enjoy a lovely walk around Tittesworth Reservoir, which offers a popular loop with views across the water. Another excellent option is Rudyard Lake, known for its woodlands and recreational activities. Both have relatively flat sections suitable for families.

Are there any unique natural landmarks to explore with kids?

Definitely! Lud's Church is a fascinating, moss-covered chasm with a mystical atmosphere that kids often love to explore. The dramatic gritstone ridges of The Roaches also offer unique rock formations and stunning panoramic views, including Doxey Pool, shrouded in local folklore.

Are there circular routes available for families?

Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Leek are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Tittesworth Reservoir loop and the Rudyard Lake loop are excellent circular options for families.

Is parking readily available for family hikes?

Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and visitor centers, such as at Tittesworth Water Visitor Centre and Rudyard Lake. Many routes starting from Leek town centre also have access to public car parks. It's always a good idea to check specific route details for parking information.

Can we access these trails using public transport?

Leek town centre serves as a hub for local bus services, making it possible to access some trailheads by public transport. For routes further afield, planning might be required, but many popular spots like Rudyard Lake and Tittesworth Reservoir are accessible by bus from Leek. For more detailed public transport information, you might want to check local bus schedules.

Are there any family-friendly routes with cafes or facilities nearby?

Yes, the Tittesworth Water Visitor Centre offers facilities including a cafe, toilets, and a play area, making it a perfect stop during or after a walk around the reservoir. Rudyard Lake also has cafes and amenities, especially near the steam railway station.

What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly trails around Leek?

The family-friendly trails around Leek are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning views, the well-maintained paths around the reservoirs, and the variety of landscapes that keep children engaged. The unique natural features like Lud's Church are also frequently highlighted as memorable experiences.

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