Lose Hill and Back Tor from Castleton

From the pretty village of Castleton this dog friendly circular climbs through farmland onto the eastern end of the Great Ridge, taking in the airy summits of Back Tor and Lose Hill before dropping back to the village. The views are some of the finest in the Peak District: Mam Tor and the Vale of Edale to one side, the Hope Valley and Win Hill to the other, with Kinder Scout dominating the northern skyline. The paved ridge path makes the going easier than the elevation suggests.

Dogs can be off lead on the ridge itself but the farm tracks in and out of Castleton pass grazing sheep and occasional cattle, so a lead is needed at both ends. The climb onto Back Tor is steep and exposed, and the ridge can catch strong wind, so a confident, biddable dog copes best here. Castleton has plenty of pubs, cafes and ice cream stops for afterwards, and many welcome dogs. There are several pay and display car parks in the village and a good National Park visitor centre with toilets.