Chrome Hill + Parkhouse Hill: Dragon’s Back 5 Mile Circular Route

The hike over Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill is one of the Peak District’s most striking and unforgettable walks. Nicknamed the Dragon’s Back, this jagged limestone ridge near Longnor and Hollinsclough looks almost otherworldly — a row of sharp, undulating peaks rising straight out of the green valley below. The route offers short but steep climbs, airy ridges, and some of the best panoramic views in the White Peak.

Walking along the spine of the “dragon,” it’s easy to see why this landscape captures so many imaginations. The contrast between soft farmland and rugged limestone gives it a sense of drama rare in this part of the Peaks. It’s a walk that feels adventurous without being overwhelming — the perfect balance of challenge, scenery, and the thrill of hiking a ridge walk. It’s a reminder that adventure doesn’t always need altitude — just a good ridge and a curious heart.

We were excited to do this walk as we hadn’t tackled much in the Staffordshire Peaks we have mainly explored the Dark Peaks. We started the route from Hollinsclough where parking is limited (all free on-road parking) but it is a small village and there is no car park close by. With it being a small village please be respectful of the residents when parking.

Chrome Hill + Parkhouse Hill circular route description

Stage 1 – Chrome Hill

Starting out in the village, head up Hollinsclough Rake road to a gate on your right which is signposted as a public footpath. Heading along the path which heads downhill and reaches a stream with a footbridge to cross. Pass through the metal gate and head left uphill until the tracks gets wider and there is a stile to your right.

This path continues uphill between the stone wall and the gorse bushes. Continue along the path following it through another stile and eventually to a gate. Head through the gate and continue down towards the farm buildings (this is Booth Farm). When you reach the road, cross over the cattle grid and over the stile to your right.

From here you head through several fields and will pass through three sets of gates until you reach a drystone wall. At the wall there is a signpost, from here keep right and follow the boundary wall (keeping it to your left). Again you will head through several fields and go through three gates, at the third gate follow the path downhill.

You will now be at the foot of Chrome Hill and ready to start the climb up. We chose to have a bit of a break for some refreshments at this point before the ascent and scrambling began. The path along the ridge of Chrome Hill is narrow (there is a lower path that winds around). There are some small caves that can be spotted on your route up to the summit.

Stage 2 – Parkhouse Hill

The descent from Chrome Hill towards Parkhouse Hill is narrow and fairly steep – again very slippery in bad weather. Follow the path down to the gate underneath the tree. As you reach the bottom of the path, cross over the stile and head across the road to the foot of Parkhouse Hill.

There is a scramble option to your right where the small trees and bushes are but we opted to follow the grassy route up to the left. This ascent has switchbacks and turns to a scramble further up towards the top – again keep your wits about you as this is rocky terrain that can easily compromise your footing. Once at the top enjoy the views before continuing along in the same direction.

Stage 3 – Back to Hollinsclough

The descent down from Parkhouse Hill is quite steep and switches back and forth. The path then levels out near the bottom and from here head diagonally across the field towards the stone pillars. Here there is a signpost – follow the route for Hollinsclough.

Further along the path you will reach a ford which has another footbridge over. Cross the footbridge and keep following the path until you cross a second cattle grid. Here you will reach an ‘honesty cafe’. Turn right here onto the road and follow it back to Hollinsclough Village.

Got the OS Map App? Follow the route by clicking the link below.

Where to eat and drink after hiking Dragon’s Back

From Hollinsclough you are not far away (in the car) from The Winking Man pub. We stopped here following our walk for some refreshments, but were unable to eat as we hadn’t booked in advance and there was quite a wait on tables.

The pub is very cosy and they serve home cooked and traditional food. We could see why there was a wait on for the food just looking at the people eating around us. As you would expect there was also a good selection of real ales, lagers, wines, ciders and spirits as well as non alcoholic options for non-drinkers or designated drivers.

⚠️ A Note of Caution – Chrome Hill (Dragon’s Back)
Chrome Hill is a stunning walk, but the limestone ridge can be very steep and extremely slippery, especially in wet or icy weather. A slip here could lead to a serious fall, so take your time, wear good boots, and don’t risk it if conditions are bad.

Pics from the peaks: more of Chrome Hill (Dragon’s Back)