Autumn glory in the Peak District

Make the most of autumn’s breathtaking colours in the Peak District National Park.

With cooler temperatures perfect for walking, cycling, running and climbing, autumn is a great time to explore the UK’s first and original National Park.

Two ranger-guided walks this month will showcase the very best of the Peak District at this time of year. A Wincle and Dane Valley Autumnal Odyssey (Saturday October 15) explores the local history of Wincle parish and boasts spectacular moorland views across to the Roaches, Shutlingsloe and Hanging Stone.

Or experience the glories of an Agden Autumn (Saturday October 29) on an 8-mile walk to enjoy the magnificent views around Bradfield

Visit www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/visiting/events for a full list of upcoming ranger events and to book your place.

You can also explore on two wheels. Choose from a great range of bikes from cycle hire centres at Parsley Hay, Derwent or Ashbourne. Full details at www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/cycle.

Here are five other top spots to discover panoramic views and opportunities for stunning photographs:

• Stanage – experience the seasonal blaze of colours, the scents of autumn, the sight of migrating birds flocking over the moorland, dramatic skies and the effects of changing light falling on stone and edge. Close to Hathersage and Sheffield.
• Langsett – well maintained paths through woodland and moorland with panoramic views of the national park across the reservoir. It is north-west of Sheffield, near Penistone.
• Macclesfield Forest – enjoy views of the trees changing colours reflected in Trentabank reservoir. Waymarked woodland paths and great for spotting water birds such as tufted duck and grebe. Located to the east of Macclesfield.
• Chee Dale – walk or cycle through a spectacular limestone gorge along the Monsal Trail with views of the River Wye. Park at Millers Dale station or Wye Dale car park, south of Buxton.
• Manifold Valley – this area feels ‘off the beaten track’, enjoy the family-friendly cycle trail and magnificent views of limestone dalesides and Thor’s Cave. Parking at Hulme End near Hartington.

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And even if the weather’s bad there is always a warm welcome at the visitor centres in Bakewell, Castleton, Edale and Upper Derwent (Fairholmes).