Top 10 Easiest Hills in the Peak District to Walk and Photograph
Hi, I’m William, a Peak District photographer and hiker obsessed with the Ethels! These 95 hills are perfect for exploring, and I’ve picked the 10 easiest for walking and snapping stunning photos. Unlike my multi-Ethel treks, these short hikes are beginner-friendly, ideal for families or casual adventurers. From Mam Tor’s iconic views to Sir William Hill’s gentle slopes, my Ethels map (williamhickie.co.uk/ethels) guides you. Grab your camera and boots—let’s explore!
10. Sir William Hill
This 0.78-mile walk ticks off Sir William Hill. Estimated time: 22 minutes. Elevation gained: 106.40ft. The green lane next to it is open to traffic so you can drive right up next to it and park there, but I wouldn't advise it. There’s a decent sized lay-by which will fit a few cars in, you can find the parking spot and my walking route here.
9. Mam Tor
This 0.41-mile hike bags Mam Tor. Estimated time: 21 minutes. Elevation gained: 326.31ft. OS Map. I’ve lost count how many times i’ve been here, a true classic of the Peak District. On weekends there’s a coffee and ice cream van in the car park, bonus! Grab my Mam Tor print at williamhickie.co.uk/shop!
8. Ramshaw Rocks
This 0.77-mile hike bags Ramshaw Rocks. A small introduction to scrambling if you want to get to the top, but it’s not far to go. Estimated time: 28 minutes. Elevation gained: 271.16ft. OS Map. I trekked it last autumn in my favourite conditions, overcast golden hour! Learn more in my workshops.
7. Eccles Pike
This 0.07-mile hop bags Eccles Pike. Estimated time: 3 minutes! Elevation gained: 57.41ft. OS Map. I walked it in summer, enjoying the views of a panoramic sunset near Chapel-en-le-Frith. Explore my Ethels map at williamhickie.co.uk/ethels! Tip: Look out for the Viewpoint structure, pointing out other local hills.
6. Harland Edge
This 2.31-mile hike bags Harland Edge. Estimated time: 1 hour 1 minute. Elevation gained: 171.32ft. OS Map. I hike here enjoying the quiet trails, the footpaths can be a little tricky to follow so it’s great to help understand some basic navigation skills using POI. For help on the trails, join one of my workshops.
5. Merryton Low
This 0.18-mile stroll bags Merryton Low. Estimated time: 4 minutes. Elevation gained: 15.26ft. OS Map. I added this walk onto my hike of The Roaches and Ramshaw rocks while I was in the area. You can park right next to it! If you want to challenge yourself with some bigger hikes, check out my Top 7 Day Track in the Peak District.
4. Cats Tor
This 0.68-mile hike bags Cats Tor. Estimated time: 23 minutes. Elevation gained: 198.32ft. OS Map. I walked it this spring as part of the Pym Chair Trio, one my favourite walks. On foggy mornings, it’s possible to get a cloud inversion here. Plan the Pym Chair Trio with my Ethels map at williamhickie.co.uk/ethels!
3. Foxlow Edge
Another hill on the Pym Chair Trio, but from the opposite side of the circular loop. This 1.09-mile hike bags Foxlow Edge. Estimated time: 31 minutes. Elevation gained: 137.83ft. OS Map. I have also walked here in Autumn under full cloud coverage, which worked well for photography when I dropped down into the woodland. Learn more at williamhickie.co.uk/workshops!
2. Higger Tor
This 0.44-mile hike bags Higger Tor. Estimated time: 13 minutes. Elevation gained: 70.80ft. OS Map. I trekked it recently in spring, capturing the gritstone. If you like my photography, see my 2026 calendar including beautiful imagery of the Peak District.
1. White Path Moss
This 0.40-mile walk bags White Path Moss on Stanage Edge. Estimated time: 12 minutes. Elevation gained: 82.12ft. OS Map. I have hosted workshops here, and photographed couples before their big day! I often include it in my wedding photography packages. Do you know someone outdoorsy who’s getting engaged?
Plan Your Ethel Adventure
These 10 Ethels are perfect for easy walks and stunning photography in the Peak District! My Ethels map guides you to these and more. Want to level up your shots? Book a workshop. Start exploring today!
