The Roaches
Recommended by
Our view
"Fantastic ridgeline views across the Staffordshire Moorlands"
Walk directions
Descend the lane from the long parking lay-by below The Roaches. Turn left through the main gate into access land, by the interpretation panel at Roaches Gate. Follow the main path which gently rises to the southern end of the rocks. On the way there are a couple of tracks which lead left to Rock Hall, but ignore all side turns until you reach a crossing track. (This leads to the top of the angular cliff wall of Hen Cloud on your right.)
Fork left on to a broad rocky track to begin the ascent to The Roaches ridgeline. Take the next fork left on to a narrower sandy track leading between two distinct levels of rock crags. Go left through a pair of stone gateposts and continue right on a well-defined track. The path is flanked by rocks on the right and woodland to the left and below. Follow it under the rocks to a sandy T-junction.
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Additional information
Terrain
- Rocky moorland paths, forest tracks and road
Landscape
- Moor and woodland
Dog friendliness
- Access land, keep on lead
Parking
- In lay-by on lane below The Roaches
Toilets en route
- None on route
About the walk
The jagged ridge of The Roaches is one of the most popular outdoor locations in the Peak District National Park. The name is a corruption of the French for rocks: roches. It was here on the gritstone crags that the ‘working-class revolution’ in climbing took place in the 1950s. Manchester lads Joe...
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Been on this walk?
Send us photos or a comment about this route. Or recommend a route of your own.
Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
Get an AA guide
Explore our range of ‘50 Walks in’ guides - they’re the ideal companion for a ramble.
About the area
Staffordshire features lofty moors, deep dales and tremendous views of both. Further south are the six sprawling towns that make up Stoke-on-Trent, which historically have had such an impact on Staffordshire’s fortunes, not to mention its culture and countryside.
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Ballfields Barn
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Haybarn at Swainsley Farm
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Swainsley Farm
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