Trail Running > Routes > Peak District Routes > Wolfscote, Biggin & Beresford Dales
An easy 9.5 km Peak District trail run through three classic dales, with riverside paths through towering limestone valleys.
Why run this trail?
One of the Peak District’s greatest strengths is its variety. When your legs are feeling the effects of running long days on the rough stuff – stiff climbs, gritty moors and shoe-swallowing bogs – it’s easy to switch gears and enjoy a simple trail run through the limestone dales of the White Peak.
This classic route from Hartington links three picturesque dales in quick succession: Biggin Dale (a dry valley), followed by Wolfscote Dale and Beresford Dale, both of which follow the course of the River Dove.
Navigation is simple, the distance is short, the scenery is spectacular and there’s little climbing of any note. If ever a run deserved the label recovery run, this is it.
Choose a fine day, get there early to beat the rambling groups and it makes an outing to remember.
Hartington to Biggin Dale
The handsome village of Hartington regularly features in “best Peak District villages” lists — and for good reason. It’s also very busy, so plan accordingly and aim to arrive early and outside peak holiday periods.
From the village centre, head past the stone cottages, shops and cafés around the square, then climb Hall Bank towards Hartington Hall (YHA).
Just beyond the hall, take the wide track to the right, signposted 845 to Biggin. This is Highfield Lane, an old packhorse route that climbs gently between dry stone walls towards a prominent stone barn on the skyline.
Continue past the barn as views open across the White Peak plateau. The track crests and begins a gradual descent, becoming more winding and attractive as it approaches a minor lane at Dale End.
Turn right on the lane, then after 100 m turn right again through a gate into Biggin Dale.
Biggin Dale to Wolfscote Dale
Follow the path as it curves through the narrow valley between hawthorn trees. The sides steepen gradually and the track becomes rougher underfoot, with small scars of limestone now dotting the hillsides.
After around 800 m, you’ll reach a junction of paths in a small hollow – continue straight on. The trail weaves along the hillside, skirting an old dew pond, before narrowing and becoming rockier as it enters a more enclosed section of the dale and passes through trees.
Screes begin to encroach on the rocky track as it becomes narrower and you pick your way below the small bluffs of limestone. Passing through a patch of gorse, you’ll soon emerge at the foot of the dale, where the crags of Peaseland Rocks rise above the River Dove ahead.
Wolfscote Dale to Beresford Dale
Turn right to follow the River Dove through Wolfscote Dale, the highlight of the run. Impressive rock formations rise above a sparkling river that winds and tumbles over a series of weirs and natural features.
The path is obvious and easy to follow – simply ignore any footbridges crossing the river and continue along the well-made track.
After roughly 2 km, cross the river via a distinctive post-and-rail footbridge to enter the woodland of Beresford Dale.
Beresford Dale to Hartington
As you enter Beresford Dale the change in character is immediate. Heavily wooded, the river closes in and becomes more languid, the limestone features surrounding it now buried in foliage and shade.
It’s a welcome contrast – particularly on warmer days – and adds another layer of variety to the run.
The path soon curves away from the riverside and emerges into open pasture. It’s a gentle climb back up to the village, where there’s a farm shop and café (how very convenient) just seconds away from the finish line.
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Trail Running Routes in the Peak District
Disclaimer
All routes and GPX files are provided as a guide only. Conditions, rights of way, and landmarks may change. Always carry an up‑to‑date map and use your own judgement. See the Trail Run Disclaimer page for details.