WHY GO
Wander beside Burbage Brook through ancient oak and birch woodland, with mossy stones and packhorse paths to discover.
Padley Gorge feels wonderfully tucked away: Burbage Brook threads through an old oak and birch woodland, while stone-pitched paths and an old packhorse route hint at the valley's long history. The National Trust's waymarked Longshaw circuit reaches a bridge above the gorge, where you can detour into the trees before following the brook upstream. Listen for woodland birds and enjoy the contrast between shaded water and the open moorland nearby.
Before you set out
Details and coordinates can be incomplete or out of date. Check current access, conditions, weather and your route with the site operator before travelling. This is not live navigation or emergency guidance.
Plan a safe visit
Editorial review: 30 October 2026. Conditions may change.
Approach
From the Longshaw café area, follow the National Trust’s pink arrows past Longshaw pond, through Granby Wood and past Granby Barn. Cross the B6521 carefully, continue through the gate and cross Burbage Brook; take the left-hand detour into Padley Gorge and follow the signed woodland paths. Allow approximately forty minutes one way to the gorge location; rough paths and steps can slow progress. The Trust’s one-hour, 3.68 km circuit is a separate full walking route, and a detour farther into the gorge adds time.
Walking time from arrival (one way)
40 minutes (approximate)
Terrain & steps
Good paths and drives on the main circuit, with gates, some stiles and a short steep flight of steps. Stone-pitched and uneven woodland paths lead into the gorge; conditions can be muddy after rain.
Accessibility
Woodcroft car park has 15 extra-wide designated spaces and accessible toilets are available at Longshaw café. The path to the café is gently sloped but can be uneven. The circuit includes stiles and steep steps; wheelchair access into the gorge is unable to confirm at this time.
Access & restrictions
Woodcroft is a pay-and-display National Trust car park; National Trust members and Blue Badge holders park free. Dogs should be on a short lead to protect wildlife and grazing animals. Grindleford station is about 1.5 miles from Longshaw via an uphill footpath through the gorge.
Facilities
Parking at Woodcroft; café, toilets and accessible toilets at Longshaw. No facilities within the gorge itself.
Seasonal considerations
Woodland paths and the café approach can become muddy or uneven after heavy rain. Redstarts may be seen around Longshaw from April to September.
Sources & further reading
The references behind this entry. Use current site guidance for visiting arrangements.