Lud's Church Walk and Route Map

This first circular route takes you through a lovely mixture of riverside paths, woodland and open countryside before climbing up onto Back Forest Ridge and visiting Lud’s Church.

If you tackle the walk clockwise, the first section follows tracks alongside the River Dane before continuing through woodland and pretty open countryside. The route then heads up and over Back Forest Ridge, where you can explore Lud’s Church and see the unusual Hanging Stone rock formation.

This is a strenuous walk with plenty of climbing, but your efforts are rewarded with some impressive views across the Staffordshire countryside. You’ll also have certainly worked up a healthy appetite for a well-deserved visit to the pub at the end of the walk.

This second route is an epic adventure for those who really want to explore this fascinating part of the Peak District National Park.

The walk climbs up onto The Roaches before following the dramatic gritstone ridge, where you can enjoy wonderful views across the surrounding countryside. After a gentler section along quiet country lanes, an additional loop takes you into Forest Wood and through Lud’s Church, with its narrow rocky corridor and deep green, moss-covered walls.

This is a long and strenuous walk with plenty of climbing, so make sure you go prepared. There are also sheer drops around parts of The Roaches, and phone GPS accuracy can vary, so take particular care near exposed sections and remain aware of your surroundings.

**Note:** If you would like a little more detail while completing the initial climb onto The Roaches, you can follow the Roaches Walk 1 route map until you reach the top.