Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill — often called the Peak District’s “Dragon’s Back” — make for one of the most spectacular short hikes in the national park. Starting from the village of Earl Sterndale, the circular route takes you up two sharp limestone ridges with sweeping views over the Upper Dove Valley. It’s not a long walk, but there’s plenty of steep ground and a bit of scrambling, so sturdy footwear (and a good head for heights) are essential.

The effort is more than worth it. From the crest of Chrome Hill, the undulating ridge of Parkhouse Hill stretches out ahead like the spine of a sleeping dragon — a view that’s become one of the Peak District’s most photographed. Visit at golden hour or sunset, when the light floods the valley with warm colour and the hills cast dramatic shadows across the fields.

Getting there: Limited parking is available in Earl Sterndale — please park considerately in this small village. The route itself can be tackled in either direction, but most walkers start with Chrome Hill and finish on Parkhouse Hill to make the steepest sections easier to descend.

This isn’t just a walk — it’s an adventure in miniature, combining rugged climbs with some of the best views in the national park. If you only have time for one Peak District hike, this is the one I always recommend.