How to sample scenic Crowden–Black Hill Pennine Way day 2 walk
Crowden to Black Hill is one of the most scenic stretches of Pennine Way Day 2, offering dramatic moorland views.
Why Hike Crowden on the Pennine Way? Highlights and Scenic Views
Crowden may not have a cosy pub at the trailhead or a bustling village green, but what it lacks in pints and pork scratchings it more than makes up for in big skies, wild valleys, and the occasional bog that wants to eat your boots whole.
Tucked away in the north of the Peak District, just off the A628 Woodhead Pass, it’s the kind of place where you wonder why the paths aren’t busier — until you realise that’s exactly why it feels so special.
Crowden on the Pennine Way: End of Day 1, Start of Day 2
This is the end of Day 1 and the start of Day 2 on the Pennine Way, and while many walkers continue north from Black Hill towards Standedge, my guide to the Pennine Way Day 2: Standedge circular walk covers that full stage for anyone wanting to go beyond this shorter Crowden–Black Hill section. It attracts hardy walkers, but it also offers family‑friendly routes — for example, heading west along the Pennine Way links to the Longdendale Trail, with fine views of Torside and Rhodeswood Reservoirs.
I first discovered Crowden during my own Pennine Way walk, and I’ve returned many times since as a starting point for different routes.
Crowden to Black Hill Walk Route (Pennine Way Partial Stage 2)
This walk heads north, following the Pennine Way for 4.5 miles to Black Hill. Many walkers simply complete it as an out-and-back, but there are also two circular options from the summit.
- Start point: Parking near Crowden Camping and Caravanning Club Site (toilets available).
- Alternative route to Pennine Way: Via Crowden Outdoor Education Centre, though I prefer turning left immediately after the campsite.
This route climbs a farm track past dry stone walls, with elevated views of Torside Reservoir, before joining the Pennine Way.
Laddow Rocks Ascent on the Pennine Way Day 2
The Pennine Way here is well-marked but rocky, so good boots with traction are essential. To the right, you’ll see the impressive valley carved by Crowden Little Brook, while ahead the dramatic Laddow Rocks rise 260 metres above Crowden.
The trail climbs steadily through heather and across streams, with Crowden Great Brook tumbling below. It’s one of my favourite stretches of the Pennine Way, with views that improve as you ascend.
Reaching Laddow Rocks can take as little as 40 minutes, though an hour is more realistic. It is exposed so depending on conditions, it makes a superb lunch stop.
From Laddow Rocks to Black Hill Summit on the Pennine Way
Beyond Laddow Rocks, the ridge continues before dropping to meet Crowden Little Brook. The path can be boggy, and even flagstones don’t guarantee dry feet.
A river crossing is required—usually manageable by hopping stones, though wetter conditions may demand a short detour. Think of it as a free audition for “It’s a Knockout”: one wrong step and you’re suddenly ankle‑deep in Peak District eau de bog.
From here, the trail rises again to Black Hill (582m). The summit is flat, marked by a trig point, and the real reward is in the views on the descent.
Black Hill Hiking options: Out-and-back vs Crowden Circular Walk
Out-and-back: Retrace your steps to Crowden.
Loop Option 1: A faint trail leads across boggy ground to Crowden Little Brook, offering beautiful valley and elevated riverside walking.
Loop Option 2: Another indistinct path heads to White Low (530m), with wider views northwest but without the first 1.5 miles of valley scenery.
Both routes require care with navigation. With around seven paths radiating from Black Hill, it’s easy to stride off with confidence only to discover you’re heading for Huddersfield instead of Crowden. A map, compass, and GPS are highly recommended—unless, of course, you enjoy the thrill of accidental night hiking.
Walking the loop anticlockwise makes route-finding for this stretch easier, though it won’t save you from the occasional bog hop. Consider it character‑building: nothing bonds you to the Pennine Way quite like the squelch of peat water slowly seeping into your socks.
Sunset Views on the Crowden–Black Hill circular walk
The return from Black Hill often delivers some of the best sunsets in the Peak District, with far-reaching views west. On my last visit, the lighting was spectacular, perfect for sunset photography.
Pennine Way Day 2: Crowden Circular Walk Video Trail Taster
Crowden–Black Hill Pennine Way Partial Stage 2 — Route Map
Light blue: Pennine Way. Dark blue: circular route. Overlap = circular route follows Pennine Way.
Crowden to Black Hill on the Pennine Way: Day 2 FAQ Guide
How long is Day 2 of the Pennine Way from Crowden to Standedge?
Day 2 covers around 11 miles (18 km), crossing Black Hill and Wessenden Moor. For a full report of this stage — including my complete Day 2 write‑up — see my Pennine Way guide covering Days 1–3.
What are the highlights of the Crowden to Standedge section?
This stage offers big skies, moorland vistas, and picturesque valleys. You’ll cross the notorious Black Hill, enjoy views over reservoirs, and experience the atmospheric landscapes that define the Dark Peak.
Are there facilities along the Crowden–Standedge route?
Facilities are limited. Standedge itself has few options, so many walkers stay in nearby Diggle or Marsden. There are almost no shops en-route, though occasionally a snack van appears on the A635.
How far is it from Crowden to Black Hill on the Pennine Way?
This stretch of Pennine Way Day 2 is about 4.5 miles from Crowden to Black Hill, though some walkers extend it to the full 11 miles (18 km) Crowden–Standedge stage.
Why is a Crowden–Black Hill circular a great way to sample Pennine Way Day 2?
While out‑and‑back routes are popular, the best option is to follow my Crowden–Black Hill circular walk, which loops back via alternative paths from the summit. This route gives you the full drama of Laddow Rocks, Crowden Little Brook, and Black Hill’s trig point, while avoiding a simple retrace and offering varied scenery on the return. It’s the most rewarding way to experience the highlights of Pennine Way Day 2 without committing to the entire 11‑mile stage to Standedge — and if you do want to sample more of that full stage in another day walk, my Pennine Way Day 2: Standedge circular walk guide covers the complete route beyond Black Hill.
Where does the Crowden–Black Hill circular walk start?
Begin at Crowden Camping and Caravanning Club Site, where parking and toilets are available. An alternative start is via the Crowden Outdoor Education Centre, though the campsite route offers elevated views of Torside Reservoir before joining the Pennine Way.
What is the terrain like between Crowden and Black Hill?
The trail climbs steadily past dry stone walls, streams, and heather moorland. The ascent to Laddow Rocks (260 m above Crowden) is rocky and exposed, requiring good boots. Beyond, paths can be boggy even with flagstones, and a river crossing near Crowden Little Brook often demands careful footing.
What highlights can you see on this section of the Pennine Way?
Highlights include Laddow Rocks, sweeping views of Crowden Great Brook valley, the moorland plateau of Black Hill (582 m), and atmospheric sunsets on the descent. Reservoirs like Torside and Rhodeswood add variety, while the wild valleys and big skies define the character of this stage.
What facilities are available near Crowden?
Crowden itself is small, with a campsite, parking and toilets but no pub or village green.