This walk combined scenery, history and little surprises. We began at Scarthin Books in Cromford, a quirky bookshop that felt like a real find. It’s the perfect place to start a slow, meandering walk—you’re already relaxed before you reach the river.
We followed a marked trail that climbed the hill, discovering small tunnels on the way up toward the Heights of Abraham. Some stretches felt tucked away and peaceful, while others opened up with wide views of the valley sides. The autumn colours made it even more spectacular.
The route crosses the valley from one side to the other, with a long flat section but plenty of variety to keep it interesting. You pass mills, old industrial buildings and pieces of Peak District heritage that make the walk feel purposeful as well as scenic. The kids loved spotting the treetops across the valley from the top of High Tor.
When we reached Matlock Bath we crossed the river and climbed High Tor, then followed a trail around the hilltops, dropped back down through fields and finished by walking around the mills. Matlock Bath is a brilliant endpoint for a walk that begins in quiet Cromford.
If you enjoy walks that blend nature with a touch of history, try our route from Monsal Head into Bakewell. Have you explored the Derwent Valley? It’s an underrated part of the Peak District.
