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The Roaches walk follows a rocky ridge affording some great views of the south Peak District and the Staffordshire countryside. This is a stunning spot for a walk in 2026. The path itself is well marked and easy to navigate. Along the path you can see some strange shaped rocks, a result of physical weathering in this exposed location. Don’t miss Hen Cloud cliff edge and Doxy pool. There are also other great things to see and do in the area. Don’t miss the Lud’s church walk. If you get time check out the Three Shires Head and the Thor’s cave walk.
LOOKING for somewhere to stay near the Roaches? Don’t miss this amazing unique glamping yurt with a hot tub
What are the Roaches?
The Roaches is a rocky ridge located in the south of the peak district national park approximately 6km (4 miles) north of Leek town. The ridge is approximately 3km long and runs in a north-south direction. The roaches trig point is 505m above sea level affording excellent views of the Tittesworth reservoir.
What should I bring on the Roaches walk?
The Roaches is an exposed ridge and it can be very windy in this location. We recommend dressing warmly, even in summer and bring several layers. Be prepared for the weather to change quickly. We also recommend bringing food and drinks because there are no shops or cafes in the area. Wear good walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
How long is the Roaches Walk?
A short return walk along the roaches can 2-3km, allowing you to see and experience the area. If you want to walk all the way along the Roaches ridge and back the walk will be approximately 6km (4 miles) and will take around 2 hours.
Where do you park for the Roaches walk?
There are two great parking spots for the Roaches walk. You can either park on the side of the road near The Roaches School (north side of the Roaches ridge). Roadside parking is free here, and there are normally spots (GPS coordinates 53.17750, -2.00784).
Alternatively you can park in the Roaches carpark (south side of the Roaches ridge). The car park is located on Roach Road around 1.5km north of Upper Hulme (GPS coordinates 53.15620, -1.99540).
Is the Roaches walk suitable for families with children?
The Roaches walk is suitable for families with children of any age. If you have younger children be aware that the route is not suitable for prams or pushchairs. We recommend using a child carrier (sling or backpack). There are some cliff edges along the route so take care with younger children.
The Roaches walk route (6km return walk route)
If you want to walk to Lud’s church as well as the Roaches we recommend parking on the North side of the Roaches (near Roaches School GPS coordinates 53.17750, -2.00784).
From here you can walk up the trail onto the Roaches toward the trig point. After only a 1-2km you can see great views of the Staffordshire countryside and some fascinating rock formations. When you have had your Roaches fix, return to the starting point and cross the road. Follow the trail (there is a signpost pointing towards Lud’s church). After around 1km on this trail turn right down the steep hill and into the woodlands. In the woods turn left and follow the woodland public footpath to the top of the dramatic Lud’s church chasm. Don’t miss our guide on the Lud’s church walk.
Alternatively if you want to see Hen Cloud and the Roaches, we recommend parking to the south of the Roaches in the car park (south side of the Roaches ridge). From here follow the footpath up onto the hill. When you hit the main trail turn left and follow the trail which leads up through the trees onto the Roaches ridge. Keep your eye out for Doxy pool on the right. The walk to the trig point is around 1km beyond Doxy pool. There are routes to extend the walk into a round route but be prepared to walk along some sections of country road (no footpaths).
There are lots of other great things to see and do in the south of the Peak District national park. If you are interested the walk can be extended north to visit the scenic Three Shires Head. You can also walk along the River Dane. We strongly recommend visiting Lud’s church if you are in the area. If you have more time in the area don’t miss the Thor’s cave walk and Chatsworth – the perfect day out for families. Bakewell is also well worth a visit – located in the south Peak District and famous for its Bakewell puddings – we highly recommend a visit.
Looking for more inspiration and ideas – don’t miss the AMAZING Peak District Family walks guide. And the mini-person version – Peak District walks with toddlers.
