Fastpacking to Sheffield

AUTHOR: BODIL

This route came from a bit of a crazy idea; could we run the commute that a lot of people make every day, between Manchester and Sheffield? We decided to put it to the test by running it as a two-day fastpacking trip, with an overnight campsite stop in Edale.

Distance: 34 km/21 mi (day 1) + 30 km/19 mi (day 2)
Ascent: 891 m/2920 ft (day 1) + 832 m/2730 ft (day 2)
Bog level: Low
Good for: Weekend away, good trails, mid-way cafe stops

Day 1: Stockport to Edale

Distance 34 km / 21 miles – Ascent 891 m / 2920 ft

On our first day, we took a train to Stockport train station and started our run in Woodbank Memorial park. You follow the river Goyt along canal paths and generally quite flat, easy running. About halfway into day 1 (18 km) you will run into the little town of New Mills. Perfect for a lunch stop and some sightseeing!

Following the canal path

Greater Manchester is marked by its waterways and bridges

After lunch, continue on the large Sett valley trail towards Hayfield. After Hayfield you will quickly start climbing to Kinder, where we decided on a small detour to the trig point (Kinder Low). After that, take Jacob’s ladder down into Edale valley and follow the route for another 4 km before arriving in Edale.

Having a break whilst reading the map on Kinder

Map of the route day 1:

Click here for Strava trace / GPX download

Once you have arrived in Edale, there are a few campsites to choose from, a number of B&B’s (if you prefer not to carry a tent..) and pubs in the village. Please note, Edale has very limited mobile phone reception.

Day 2: Edale to Sheffield

Distance 30 km / 19 miles – Ascent 832 m / 2730 ft

On our second day we were on well-known terrain for us. With stiff legs, we started uphill from our campsite up to the ridge between Edale and Castleton. A scenic run brings you to Loose hill, and after that you stay relatively low, following the river Derwent until arriving in Hathersage. There are some nice cafe stops in Hathersage, where you can recharge before tackling the uphill to Burbage. After that, it is a nice 10 km downhill run into the Porter Brook valley until you end up in Endcliffe park, Sheffield. From here you can take a bus to Sheffield train station, if needed.