Three Shires Head Walk
Three Shires Head is a picturesque spot where the counties of Staffordshire, Derbyshire and Cheshire meet, high in the moorlands. On this wonderful walk you will visit the pretty waterfall and a series of pools which is fed from the River Dane. The walk up to Three Shires Head is well worth the energetic hike and on your return there is a great pub in Flash for refreshments. For more walks like this, take a look at the Staffordshire Walks app with over 150 walks in Staffordshire or the Derbyshire Walks app with over 200 walks in Derbyshire.
Here is a route map for the Three Shires Head Walk on the Staffordshire Walks App. Let the app guide you around the route and show your location as you walk.
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About the walks
Photo © Phil Eptlett (cc-by-sa/2.0)
Three Shires Head Walk 1
3.75 miles
We have two walks on the app that start in the village of Flash and take you to Three Shires Head. The first walk is a wonderful but strenuous adventure in the Staffordshire Moors that explores some beautiful scenery in the area and visits the Three Shires Head bridge which offers a perfect photo opportunity. The route takes you across open Moorland, over steep hills and through farmland so please ensure that you have the correct footwear and equipment for a strenuous walk. You could also encounter livestock on this walk so dogs may need to be controlled and there is some walking along very quiet country lanes on the route. Finally, there is a small village pub for refreshments after your energetic adventure in the Staffordshire Moors.
Three Shires Head walk 2
6 miles
The second walk option is basically an extension of the first route that heads further north from Three Shires Head and explores more of the beautiful Staffordshire Moors. As with the first route, this takes you across open Moorland, over steep hills and through farmland so please ensure that you have the correct footwear and equipment for this walk. Dogs may need to be controlled at times around livestock, there are some quiet lane walking sections on the route and there is a small pub in the village.
Points of Interest
The Packhorse Bridge & Waterfall
A charming packhorse bridge spans the River Dane at the tripoint of Staffordshire, Derbyshire, and Cheshire. The tumbling cascades and adjacent pools make this a popular picnic and photo spot.County Tripoint
This is one of the few places in England where three counties meet: stand in one spot and you can face a different county in each direction.Historical Crossing Point
Historically, this moorland spot served as a vital crossing for packhorses and even a hideout for brigands—local law enforcement couldn’t operate across county lines, which made this border location a handy escape route.Scenic Moorland & River Valleys
The Three Shires Head walk takes you through secluded river valleys, mature woodland, sheep-grazed pasture, and open heather moorland—an appealing mix of Peak District landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What makes the Three Shires Head walk special?
A: It's a moorland classic—combining a historic packhorse crossing, the point where three counties converge, waterfall pools, and Peak District character, all in one circuit.
Q: How tough is the terrain?
A: The route includes uneven, rocky ground, uneven ascent and descent, and can be muddy in places.
Q: Where does the walk start
A: The Three Shires Head walk starts in Flash (called Flash on the app), the start point and free roadside parking is located at grid reference 51.146489,-2.71722
Q: How long is the walk?
A: The walk is 3.75 to 6 miles. Depending on your route and pace, expect around 2 - 4 hours +.
Q: Is the climb difficult?
A: It’s steep in parts, but manageable for most. It may take longer if you take your time and enjoy the scenery.
Q: Are there refreshments?
A: There is a small village pub in Flash called The New Inn.
Q: Is there parking nearby?
A: The Staffordshire Walks app will take you to the parking and starting location.
Q: What about wildlife?
A: The area supports interesting wildlife, including moths and butterflies, especially in the moorland areas around Three Shires Head.
User feedback from the Three Shires Head walk
Flash walk to Three Shires head
It took our family of 4 and one dog nearly 3 hours on a hot day. That was with 20 mins rest. It has plenty of challenging sections, but worth it for some of the delights experienced along the way. Take cash for the farm house selling ice creams and drinks towards the end. The pub at the end was a welcome refreshment stop but does not sell food. Would definitely do the walk again. Thanks for the App and recommendation.
Beautiful.
Pub is only open on a Sunday from 4pm till 10pm