Laddow Rocks + Blackhill From Crowden: 9 Mile Circular Route

The Laddow Rocks and Black Hill circular from Crowden is a walk that captures the raw, open character of the northern Peak District. Setting off from the quiet Crowden valley, the trail climbs steadily onto the Pennine Way, following a winding path alongside tumbling streams and steep-sided cloughs before emerging onto the wild moor.

The first real reward comes at Laddow Rocks — a dramatic gritstone edge that drops away into the valley below and offers sweeping views across the Dark Peak. From there, the route continues across open peatland to Black Hill, once notorious for its deep bogs but now crossed by flagstones that make the journey far more inviting.

We’ve hiked this route several times and it is one of our favourite routes. It’s a walk that reminds you how much beauty there is in the quiet, corners of the Peaks. You are likely to only come across a handful of people all day. If you have the weather you can see for miles across the moors; on a cloudy one, you get that unmistakable sense of being somewhere wild and untamed. So if you are after a quieter walk than those of the popular Kinder Scout Mass Trespass or Mam Tor’s Great Ridge this is perfect.

Laddow Rock and Black Hill from Crowden route description

Stage 1 – A scenic ascent up towards Laddow Rocks

Starting out from the car park follow a short track which brings you to the toilet facilities at the camp site. Take a right here and follow the path to the road and turn left through the gate. Follow the road along for a short period and take a right at the sign-post to The Pennine Way. You will need to continue along the path as you ascend towards Laddow Rocks crossing a few streams as you go. On our trip it was cool and very overcast but the streams come in useful on warmer days to cool down. Somewhere close to the highest point the path splits, ignore the path to the left and continue along straight ahead.

Stage 2 – Laddow Rocks to the Pennine Way

The path along the edge from Laddow Rocks is narrow, uneven and quite exposed so be sure to take your time along this point. As you continue you will reach Crowden Great Brook and will have to cross several times along the way and could be in danger of wet feet depending on the weather.

As you continue along the path you reach a flagged section (which we are always grateful for) and this eventually takes you to the trig point that is Black Hill (Holme Moss). It is worth noting that even along the flagged section there was a small part that was flooded and we had to navigate around the boggy ground.

Stage 3 – Navigating tough moorland with zero visibility

With your back to the trig point head out directly in front of you towards a timber post. As you reach the post turn right and follow the trodden path (along this section the path appears and disappears at various sections).

This section is very boggy and you will need to navigate your way around. We certainly had a lot of fun hopping from one dry spot to another around the bog beneath our feet. Funnily enough Louise always suggests I go first to see how deep it is.

Eventually the path becomes a little clearer and then you descend towards the old quarry. Following the path round and it will split again. Take the path to the right and climb over the style and descend a fairly steep section – again this is rocky and uneven so take care with your footing. As the descent levels out, head through the gate or over the style and back along past Crowden Camp Site towards the car park.

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

Where to eat and drink after hiking Laddow Rocks and Black Hill

Depending on which direction you are heading off in, there are several options to call in for a quick pint following the day’s adventure. There is the Bull’s Head in Tintwistle — a characterful 16th-century boozer serving real ales and amazing home cooked food. The shepherd’s pie made with High Peak lamb (£14.25) is a highlight. It is worth noting that being home-cooked, there is limited availability, so booking in advance and an early sitting will always be preferable, especially for groups. 

About 10-mins drive is Glossop and Old Glossop, and there is plenty to choose from here. The Oakwood is a beautiful pub which has a great range of wines, cocktails and beers (we love a crisp Neck Oil after a hike) as well as some decent food — be sure to book if you want to dine, though. For a great selection of wines by the glass, try Harvey Leonard’s, whose adjoining bottle shop also offers great takeaway options.

If you are heading over to Glossop then we can also highly recommend The Two Hares located on High Street West. The Sunday roast is well worth the trip – think slow-cooked local lamb shank (£26), roast Derbyshire beef (£23) or seasonal vegetarian options, served with all the trimmings. Be sure to add on a helping of rich broccoli and cauliflower cheese for £5 extra.

⚠️ A Note of Caution – Laddow Rocks & Black Hill (from Crowden)
The hike up to Laddow Rocks and on across Black Hill can be tough going. The moorland is often boggy, and in poor visibility it’s very easy to lose the path — many walkers have struggled to navigate here in mist or bad weather.

Make sure you’re properly equipped, confident with map and compass, and ready for wet, rough ground. The views are worth it, but only if you get back safely.

Pics from the peaks: more from Laddow Rocks