Peak Ramble: Win Hill

One of my most favourite hills to walk in the Peak District is Win Hill, get to the top of here and you are rewarded with views of Bamford Moor, Kinder Scout, Lose Hill and of course Ladybower. It can be a tough climb up but so worth it for the views. We like to take the route up through the woodland, as a bit of a tree fanatic, I am in my element when trekking through here and always have my camera handy.

There is something so magical about being under the shelter of the trees, the quiet envelopes you and all you can hear are the sounds of the birds, the wind rustling the trees or even the rain hitting the leaves. The damp, mossy smell fills your nostrils and you feel as if you are well and truly in nature, there is just no escaping it. Your boots get muddy, your hair windswept and cheeks red.

One of our favourite’s routes is Parkins Clough; this is a small path that winds its way up through the woodland near to Ladybower. It is a single track that needs some navigation if there are walkers or mountain bikers coming in the opposite direction. It can get muddy and slippy underfoot but overall it is a stunning way to get up through the trees to the trig point of Win Hill.

Following the rocky steps that meander through the purple or brown heather (depending on the time of year) you are soon at the rocky summit of Win Hill. From here you can scramble over the rocks or simply sit down and enjoy the view. We normally refuel at this point and take some photographs as the views are always stunning.

From here we like to wander down through the woodland back to the reservoir or extend the walk into Hope or across to Lose Hill. I love having the choice of extending a walk if you feel like you want more adventure. The good thing about the Peaks is that there is always something to see and always another peak to bag. The last time we did Win and Lose Hill mind, my knee was aching, so think it through before committing, I guess I’m a bit of an old lady.

Whichever route you choose, the views open up for you, giving you something amazing to look at in every direction. Whether you’re a fan of lush rolling hills or dark moody edges and moors, you can see it all so I recommend you take a camera. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time for the next adventure, so why not make it Win Hill.

Sarah