White to Dark Way
A 27-mile long-distance path in the Peak District which begins in the White Peak and ends in the Dark Peak. Walkers experience the transition from free-draining limestone terrain to water-retaining gritstone moorland. With map, statistics, and GPX route file.
Statistics and Files
Grid Ref: SK 220 686
Distance: 27 miles (43 km)
Time: 12–15 hours
Duration: 1–2 days
Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps (1:25,000):
OL1 The Peak District – Dark Peak Area
OL24 The Peak District – White Peak Area
Summary
Created to celebrate Country Walking magazine’s 25th birthday back in 2012, the White to Dark Way is designed to showcase some of the National Park’s best natural and man-made features, including the transition from white peak limestone to dark peak gritstone.
In doing so, the trail heads through attractive towns and villages including Bakewell, Monsal Head, Litton, Foolow, Eyam, Hathersage, and Hope. During the walk, limestone dales give way to stark gritstone moorlands with a scattering of Peak District favorites along the way, including the Monsal Trail, Cressbrook Dale, Eyam Moor, Stanage Edge, and Ladybower Reservoir. The final stretch from Ladybower to Hope even includes the toughest climb of all: a steep ascent up and over Win Hill. Still, you should be warmed up to the task by then!