13k Run Over Haddon: Scenic Loop through Lathkill Dale

Route Overview & Local Insights

Starting in the charming village of Over Haddon, this 12.8km loop offers some of the most stunning limestone scenery in the Peak District. While largely paved (10km), the route transitions into rugged sections through the dramatic Lathkill Dale and the serene Bradford Valley. With a manageable 177m of ascent, the difficulty lies more in the varied underfoot conditions than the elevation; runners should prepare for potential flooding in the lower limestone gorges and some soft going across traditional Derbyshire farm fields. It is a fantastic trail for those looking to combine a steady tempo on hard-packed surfaces with technical, scenic riverside sections.

Lathkill Dale is deeply steeped in history, designated as a National Nature Reserve for its unique flora and rare "Jacob's Ladder" flowers. As you run through the valley, keep an eye out for the remains of the area’s lead mining past and the remarkably clear waters of the River Lathkill, which famously disappears underground during dry spells. Passing through the historic village of Youlgrave (widely known by locals as 'Youlgreave'), you’ll experience an area once vital to the local plumbing and lead industries, now better known for its traditional gritstone cottages and the crystal-clear swimming spots along the River Bradford.