Castleton is a beautiful village situated in the Hope Valley, in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Surrounded by hillsides and overlooked by Mam Tor (the shivering mountain) and the ancient Peveril Castle, the village is popular for it’s show caves, Blue John stone, history, shops, Christmas lights, walking and the annual garland ceremony in May.
Our visitor centre has been fully refurbished in 2017 and is now the premier visitor centre in the Peak District National Park, with exciting new information displays, a dedicated space for Castleton Historical Society’s museum, improved retail area, an area for activities, as well as a new café.
You'll find a warm welcome for people of all ages and abilities, particularly those living with disability, wheelchair users, families with young children or elderly relatives. We also encourage visits from school, youth and community groups.
Come and enjoy the exciting digital interpretation displays including the interactive wall – the first time this technology has been used by a national park. Experience the Castleton story as told by our friends at Castleton Historical Society (CHS) and their artefacts. You can get a taste of the area too as you'll find that our new café uses local products and local food suppliers.
Parking and toilets
There is a car park and toilets adjacent to our visitor centre, these are operated by High Peak Borough Council. Please note that the pay and display machines only accept change and do not accept bank notes or cards.
Why is Hope Valley Worth a Visit?Hope Valley's charm lies in its blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Its picturesque villages, such as Hope, Castleton, and Edale, are surrounded by stunning scenery, including dramatic peaks, verdant meadows, and serene rivers.
The Great Ridge isan iconic, paved walking path in the Peak District National Park, extending for about 3 kilometers from Mam Tor to Lose Hill, separating the valleys of Edale and Castleton.It offers stunning panoramic views ofKinder Scoutand theHope Valley,with highlights includingBack TorandHollins Cross,a historic crossing point on the former "Coffin Road".This very popular, moderately challenging walk is suitable for hiking, running, and walking, and is accessible year-round.
Key Features and Highlights
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A Popular Ridge Walk:
The Great Ridge is a highly popular and well-paved trail, making it accessible for many visitors.
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Stunning Views:
The path provides spectacular, sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, including Kinder Scout to the north and the Hope Valley to the south.
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The ridge stretches between the prominent peaks of Mam Tor (at the western end) and Lose Hill (at the eastern end).
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This is the lowest point of the ridge and a significant historical site, once part of the "Coffin Road" used to carry the deceased from Edale to Hope Church for burial.
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Back Tor:
A steeper section along the ridge, Back Tor is notable for its dramatic rock features and views.
Activities and Experience
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Hiking & Walking:
The Great Ridge is ideal for day hikes, offering a rewarding experience with relatively easy navigation along its flagged path.
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Running:
The route is also popular with trail runners, providing a challenging yet scenic experience.
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Photography:
The dramatic landscape, especially at sunrise, offers fantastic opportunities for photographers.
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Geological Interest:
Mam Tor itself is geologically significant, composed of layers of shale, sandstone, and limestone, shaped by millions of years of geological processes.
Practical Information
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Starting Points:
Popular starting points for the walk include the villages of Castleton or Hope, with car parks available in the area.
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Year-Round Destination:
The Great Ridge is open throughout the year and offers different scenic beauty in every season.
