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West Midlands Region
Staffordshire
Staffordshire Moorlands

Quarnford

The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Quarnford

4.6

(1519)

11,151

hikers

50

hikes

Family friendly hiking trails around Quarnford are set within the Staffordshire Moorlands of the Peak District, offering a diverse and dramatic natural landscape. The region is characterized by distinctive gritstone ridges, such as The Roaches, and unique limestone reef knolls like Chrome Hill. Picturesque river valleys also contribute to the varied terrain, providing a range of walking experiences. The area includes Flash, recognized as the highest village in Britain, adding a notable geographical element to its outdoor appeal.

Best family…

Last updated: July 1, 2026

4.4

(71)

308

hikers

#1.

Three Shire Heads circular from Flash

6.92km

01:58

160m

160m

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

Moderate

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

Easy

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

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Simon Wilson
April 2, 2026, Three Shires Head

Need to revisit for a swim

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Good little stream with many little waterfalls to the main one

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Looked very impressive today after all the rain, get there early it was really quiet and could enjoy in peace

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Si
September 29, 2025, Three Shires Head

Nice little E Bike no dab challenge on the ascent out. Great coffee stop.

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Good spot for a drink after a walk.

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interesting historical site for those interested in the industrial revolution

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An 18th Century stone chimney which was linked by a flue to a steam engine lower down the hill used to haul coal. One of only 9 surviving in England, this was used to ventilate one of the mine shafts.

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This beautiful resting spot on the banks of the babbling Clough Brook is the perfect place for a picnic after summiting Shutlingsloe. Hidden away from the crowds it is calm and tranquil hidden gem flanked by lush green foliage and rocks, you would be forgiven for feeling as if you were in a beautiful gorge miles away from anywhere!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

There are over 50 family-friendly hiking trails around Quarnford, offering a great variety for all ages. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate options to explore the beautiful Peak District landscape.

What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes near Quarnford?

The terrain around Quarnford is wonderfully diverse. You can expect everything from gentle paths through picturesque river valleys to more rugged sections along gritstone ridges like The Roaches, and even unique limestone formations. Many family routes are well-maintained, but some may involve slight inclines or uneven ground.

Are there any family-friendly circular walks available?

Yes, Quarnford offers several excellent circular routes perfect for families. A popular choice is the Three Shire Heads circular from Flash, which is an easy 6.9 km walk. Another great option is the Three Shires Head loop from Quarnford, also an easy route.

Can we bring our dog on these family hikes?

Many trails in the Peak District are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially around livestock and in areas with ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, and remember to clean up after your pet.

Are there any waterfalls suitable for families to visit?

Absolutely! The area around Quarnford is home to the beautiful waterfalls at Three Shire Heads, a historic packhorse bridge marking the meeting point of three counties. It's a popular and relatively easy destination for families. You can reach it via the Three Shire Heads circular from Flash.

What interesting natural features or landmarks can families explore?

Families can explore a variety of fascinating natural features. Don't miss Lud's Church, a deep, atmospheric gorge formed by a significant landslip. The dramatic gritstone ridges of The Roaches are also impressive, featuring a trig point on The Roaches that offers stunning views. For unique geological formations, consider seeing Chrome Hill, often called the 'Dragon's Back'.

Where can we park when hiking with family in Quarnford?

Parking is generally available at common starting points for popular trails, such as near Flash village or Roaches Gradbach. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot, so it's a good idea to check the tour page for your chosen hike in advance.

What do other families say about hiking in Quarnford?

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly hikes around Quarnford, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of trails suitable for different ages, and the memorable landmarks like Three Shire Heads and Lud's Church.

Are there any easy routes for families with young children?

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for families with young children. Many of the trails leading to Three Shire Heads, such as the Three Shires Head loop from Roaches Gradbach, are classified as easy and are relatively short, making them ideal for little legs.

What is the best time of year for family hiking in Quarnford?

Spring and summer offer pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes, making them excellent for family hikes. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. While winter can be scenic, conditions can be more challenging, so always check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out, especially with children.

Are there any routes that offer great viewpoints for families?

Many trails in the Quarnford area provide fantastic viewpoints. For instance, the Shining Tor trig point, the highest point in modern Cheshire, offers outstanding panoramic views on a clear day. The trig point on The Roaches also provides spectacular vistas over the surrounding Peak District.

How long do family-friendly hikes typically take?

The duration of family-friendly hikes varies depending on the route and your family's pace. Many easy circular routes, like those to Three Shire Heads, can be completed in 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Moderate trails, such as the Lud's Church – The Roaches Trig Point loop, might take 3 to 4 hours, so it's always good to check the estimated duration on the komoot tour page.

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