Whether it’s villages with winding streets lined with charming cottages or a breath-taking waterfall, the Peak District certainly delivers when it comes to picturesque locations. Not to mention the miles of walking trails which criss-cross the landscape, all waiting to be explored as well.
But there’s one beauty spot in particular which can be easily missed if you didn’t know it was there. It’s a serene riverside walk hidden beneath a thick canopy of towering pine trees, which feels very different to the exposed moorland found elsewhere in the Peak District.
Snake Pass (the A57) is one of the best known mountain roads in England, stretching from Glossop to Sheffield. It’s a popular driving route with incredible views and twists and turns, although it can be hazardous and regularly closed during bad weather.
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Yet tucked alongside a section of the road is the stunning Snake Woodland. With moss-covered tree stumps and a babbling brook all sheltered underneath the trees, it’s a scene which could be from a fairy-tale.
To get to Snake Woodland you can park at Hope Woodland Car Park and then cross the road to the opposite side. From here you descend down into the woods, following a small stream to where it meets the River Ashop.
Thanks to the trees overhead you’ll feel a million miles away from the A57. Phone signal can be patchy too so you can truly disconnect from the outside world - just make sure you have a map with you.
There’s a short 2.3km circular walk you can do following the river south until it comes to a fork, and then turning right and heading back to the beginning. Alternatively there are longer routes to take which go as far as the Higher Shelf Stones.
It can be boggy underfoot in wet weather so make you have appropriate footwear and suitable clothing if the weather changes. But if it remains dry there’s lots of places where you can sit and enjoy the tranquillity of the woods.
If you go at the right time you may also find the Wildman Cafe open at the carpark, where you can grab a bacon butty before setting off on your walk.
Thing to know before you go:
The nearest postcode for Hope Woodland Car Park is S33 0AB. It is free but it is small so it’s best to get there early on a weekend to avoid disappointment, alternatively go during the week when it’s quieter.
Take care when crossing the road as cars often speed round the bend on Snake Pass. The road is frequently closed in bad weather or due to maintenance work so always check before you travel.
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