Best attractions and places to see around Longnor, a historic village in the Staffordshire Peak District, offer a blend of ancient landmarks and picturesque natural features. Situated on a limestone ridge between the River Dove and River Manifold valleys, it serves as a base for exploring the wider Peak District. The area is characterized by its distinctive hills and varied landscapes, providing numerous opportunities for outdoor activities.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
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A short sharp climb from either the South or North for great views of the valley
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Nice area to stop by, have a snack and enjoy the peaceful noise of a running stream. Don't stop if you need to pee haha! :)
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Very steep (near vertical) section at the top not for the faint hearted! Climbing briefly required and the rocks may be slippery if wet, some surfaces are a bit crumbly, and it is likely to be windy! But wonderful views
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Tough little steep hill in this area but worthwhile doing.
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Park house -Thought it too dangerous ,long fall if you slip . Need a rope ! Chrome hill lovely.
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I found coming down Parkhouse Hill incredibly dangerous. Very steep, no clear path, seemingly just very steep rock. Couldn't see any safe way down so had to shimmy my way on my backside. Made unsafer by a surprise brief sunshower that made everything slippery! Views at the top were really lovely, but not sure it was worth it 😬
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Longnor is surrounded by stunning Peak District countryside. You can visit the Trig point on The Roaches, a dramatic gritstone ridge offering views from 505m above sea level. Another excellent viewpoint is High Wheeldon Summit Trig Point, which provides fabulous views over Chrome and Parkhouse Hills. The distinctive reef-knoll hills of Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill also offer breathtaking panoramic views.
Yes, the area offers several challenging climbs. Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill, often referred to as the ‘Dragon’s Back’, are known for their steep ascents and descents, requiring some scrambling. The Trig point on The Roaches also involves a climb to its summit, rewarding you with rugged beauty and expansive views.
Longnor village itself is rich in history. You can explore the Longnor Cobbled Square and Market Hall, which dates back to the 19th century and reflects the village's past as a significant market town. St Bartholomew's Church, though rebuilt in 1781, has origins in the 13th century and features an early Norman font. The Old Methodist Chapel, where John Wesley once preached, is another notable historical building.
The Longnor area is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including challenging routes like the 'Dragon's Back' loop from Earl Sterndale. There are also many road cycling routes, such as the 'Tea Garden – Wetton Mill Tea Room loop from Hulme End', and diverse mountain biking trails, including the 'Derbyshire Dales and the High Peak Trail'. For more details, explore the Running Trails around Longnor, Road Cycling Routes around Longnor, and MTB Trails around Longnor guides.
Yes, there are options suitable for families. The Monsal Dale Weir is a delightful spot for photos and can be admired from a footpath, making it accessible for families. While some climbs are challenging, many areas of the Dove and Manifold Valleys offer gentler riverside paths suitable for family walks. Nearby Dovedale is also known for family-friendly walks.
Longnor is an excellent starting point for scenic walks. The village sits on a limestone ridge between the River Dove and River Manifold valleys, offering numerous paths. You can explore trails around the distinctive Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill, or enjoy routes leading to the Trig point on The Roaches. The area is highly rated for hiking, with a network of trails exploring limestone dales and rolling moorland.
The 'Dragon's Back' refers to the distinctive reef-knoll hills of Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill. These hills are a popular walking destination close to Longnor, known for their sharp limestone ridges and challenging ascents. They offer some of the most iconic views in the Peak District.
Monsal Dale Weir is a picturesque river feature located just down from the viaduct. It creates a delightful sight, often mistaken for a waterfall, and is a popular spot for photography and enjoying a break. You can admire the weir from the footpath, and it's easily accessible.
Beyond the well-known hills, the Longnor area boasts several unique natural features. The 'Dragon's Back' (Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill) are ancient atolls from the Carboniferous period. Blakemere Pond, perched on a hilltop, offers scenic views. The Three Shires Head Walk leads to a collection of pools and waterfalls where three counties meet, providing a great wild swimming location.
The Peak District around Longnor is beautiful year-round, but for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most favorable weather conditions. During these months, trails are typically drier, and temperatures are milder, making for more comfortable exploration. However, the dramatic landscapes can also be stunning in winter, though conditions can be more challenging.
Yes, Longnor village offers options for refreshments and accommodation. The Longnor Craft Centre, located in the historic Market Hall, provides a place to browse and find refreshments. The Crewe & Harpur Arms is a prominent historic coaching inn in the market place, and the village was historically known for its many inns, suggesting other local establishments may be available for food and drink.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views and the sense of accomplishment from challenging climbs. For instance, the views from Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill are often described as amazing, and the climb to the Trig point on The Roaches is appreciated for its rugged beauty. The komoot community has shown strong appreciation for the area, with over 600 upvotes and more than 300 photos shared across the attractions.


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