Highlight • Mountain Pass
Hiking
5.0
(1591)
Mountain biking
4.9
(147)
Hollins Cross is a significant mountain pass nestled in the heart of the Peak District National Park, Derbyshire, England. Situated on the spectacular Great Ridge, it acts as a natural division between the scenic Vales of Edale and Castleton. At an elevation of 392 meters (1,286 feet), this low col is a crucial junction where several paths converge, making it an accessible crossing point and a popular starting point for walks along the ridge between Mam Tor and Lose Hill.
…This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
January 5, 2022
Hiking
September 19, 2019
Hiking
June 5, 2021
Hiking
Nearby routes
Best routes near Hollins Cross
4.8
(602)
2,556
hikers
13.3km
03:57
410m
410m
4.9
(296)
1,962
hikers
13.1km
04:00
440m
440m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(286)
1,846
hikers
13.0km
03:58
450m
450m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 370 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Wednesday 11 March
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13 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 36.0 km/h
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Hollins Cross is a central point on the Great Ridge, making it ideal for circular routes. A popular option is the Mam Tor and Great Ridge circular walk, often starting from Castleton or Edale, which takes you along the ridge, encompassing Mam Tor, Hollins Cross, and Lose Hill. Another excellent choice is a loop combining the Great Ridge with a descent into one of the valleys, such as the Edale Valley, before returning to your starting point.
The terrain around Hollins Cross offers varied difficulty. The path west towards Mam Tor is generally a gentle, paved climb, suitable for most abilities. However, the route east towards Back Tor and Lose Hill can be more challenging, featuring unpaved and badly eroded sections, especially on the initial climb to Back Tor. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended for all routes, and hikers should be prepared for uneven surfaces.
Hollins Cross can be hiked in winter, offering stunning snowy vistas, but conditions can be significantly more challenging. Expect colder temperatures, potentially strong winds, and icy or snowy paths. The unpaved sections towards Back Tor can become particularly treacherous. Proper winter gear, including warm layers, waterproofs, and potentially microspikes or crampons, is essential. Always check the weather forecast before setting out.
Parking is available in the nearby villages of Castleton and Edale. Popular car parks include Mam Tor car park (often fills quickly), Castleton village car park, and Edale village car park. Parking can fill up very fast, especially on weekends and sunny days, so arriving early in the morning is strongly recommended to secure a spot.
Yes, Hollins Cross is accessible by public transport. The nearest train stations are in Edale and Hope, both of which are within walking distance of the Great Ridge and Hollins Cross. Regular bus services also connect surrounding towns and villages, such as Castleton, to these transport hubs. Check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
Hollins Cross can be very family-friendly, especially the paved path leading west towards Mam Tor. This section offers relatively gentle gradients and spectacular views without being overly strenuous. For families with younger children, a shorter out-and-back walk from Mam Tor car park to Hollins Cross is a good option. Always consider the weather and your children's fitness levels.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Hollins Cross and the Great Ridge. However, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially due to livestock grazing in the fields and the presence of ground-nesting birds. Please also ensure you clean up after your dog to help keep the Peak District beautiful for everyone.
At Hollins Cross, you'll find a memorial dedicated to Tom Hyett, an avid walker, erected in 1964. This marks the spot where an actual cross, after which the pass is named, once stood. The area is also historically significant as a former "coffin road," where residents of Edale transported their dead to Hope or Castleton for burial before a church was built in Edale.
Hollins Cross is a highly popular destination, and it can get very busy, particularly on weekends, bank holidays, and during good weather. The Great Ridge walk is one of the most famous in the Peak District, attracting many hikers. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting early in the morning, later in the afternoon, or on weekdays outside of school holidays.
While Hollins Cross itself is a mountain pass with no facilities, the nearby villages of Castleton and Edale offer a good range of amenities. Both villages have several pubs serving food and drinks, cafes, and various accommodation options including B&Bs, guesthouses, and campsites. These villages are excellent starting points for your adventures and places to refuel afterwards.