What to Expect

This walk is a rewarding introduction to Ethel-bagging in the Peak District, linking together Sir William Hill, Burton Pole, and Durham Edge in one compact outing. The route combines quiet moorland paths with open, expansive views, offering a gentle but satisfying challenge for hillwalkers looking to tick off three Ethels in a single walk. With its mix of rolling terrain, sense of remoteness, and classic Dark Peak character, it’s an ideal route for those who enjoy steady walking and big landscapes rather than dramatic summits.

It's a long day away from public conveniences but we always have civilisation in sight. There is a few ascents and descents through boggy and heather strewn moorland. There will be walking off the path to get to Ethel's which will involve pushing through heather and roots. There will be some walking on public bridleways which includes routes that mountain bikers regularly use and even sometimes dirt bikes. There will be sheep on this route, though few and far between, then can sometimes appear randomly. It's a walk that feels far and remotes and can be exposed but isn't too far from roads if needed to escape a bad weather day. Durham Edge Ethel and Trig point is on private land, we get within a few metres of it so this still counts as a bag.