The Roaches & Lud’s Church

(Moderate, ~5.5 miles, 2.5–3.5 hours)

A wild and windswept walk through Staffordshire’s gritstone highlands on the southwestern edge of the Peak District National Park. The Roaches ridge offers panoramic views, dramatic rock formations, and a touch of folklore—look out for Doxey Pool, said to be haunted by a water spirit. The route can be extended to include Lud’s Church, a moss-covered chasm steeped in myth and medieval history. Expect rugged terrain, heather moorland, and sightings of peregrine falcons. A favourite among climbers and walkers alike.