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The Roaches and Lud’s Church Circular Trail Running Route: 12km Peak District Loop

A 12.4km circular trail running route from The Roaches / Gradbach start area a dramatic Peak District trail route linking the Roaches gritstone ridge with the atmospheric woodland chasm of Lud’s Church, with around 757m of climbing and a highest point of 485m.
12.4km

Distance

757m

Elevation Gain

2.4 hours to 3.1 hours running / 4.2 to 5.8 hours walking

Estimated Time

Difficulty

Distance Band

Route Map

Details
The Roaches and Luds Church Figure of Eight

Get this route

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About this route

This The Roaches and Lud’s Church Circular trail running route is a circular loop from The Roaches / Gradbach start area, built from the supplied GPX file and suitable for runners who are comfortable on mixed trail terrain.

The GPX measures approximately 12.4km with around 757m of elevation gain and reaches a highest point of about 485m. This is a classic gritstone edge and woodland route with rocky running, steep steps, muddy woodland and popular paths. It can be busy, but the scenery is excellent.

Use the GPX for navigation, carry appropriate kit for the distance and weather, and always check local access, parking and public transport details before travelling.

Route Features

At a Glance

📍 Start:The Roaches, Gradbach

Getting there

Start Point

The Roaches, Gradbach
ST13 8UA

Parking

Use signed parking for The Roaches or Gradbach where permitted. Roadside parking is limited and sensitive, so do not block gates, lanes or passing places.

Public Transport

Public transport to the immediate start is limited. Leek and Buxton have wider transport options, but the route is usually easiest by car.

Toilets

Do not rely on toilets at the immediate start. Check nearby visitor facilities, pubs or cafes before travelling.

Nearest Town

Leek

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What's underfoot

Expect gritstone paths, rocky ridge, woodland paths, moorland tracks, field paths, muddy sections, short road sections. The route has approximately 757m of climbing over 12.4km, so pace should be adjusted for terrain, weather and navigation.

Best Seasons

Navigation Difficulty

The Roaches, Gradbach

Weather Notes

Avoid poor visibility, high winds and heavy rain on exposed or high-level sections. Paths may be slippery, boggy or harder to follow after prolonged wet weather.

Recommended Equipment

Trail shoes are strongly recommended for this route. Here’s what we’d suggest.

Recommended kit for this route

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Before, during & after

Water

Carry your own water. Natural water sources should not be relied upon unless treated/filtered, and facilities may be limited or seasonal.

Shops Nearby

Leek is the nearest larger town for shops, food and supplies. Carry snacks and water from the start.

Post-Run Recommendation

Head to Leek, Gradbach or local pubs/cafes near the Roaches for post-run food depending on opening times.

How to run it

Route Steps (route_steps repeater)
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Follow the well-signed footpath from the car park.
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Before you go

⚠ Safety Notes

Follow the GPX closely and carry a map/backup navigation. Conditions can change quickly on open fell, moorland or mountain ground. Take extra care on wet rock, boggy sections, steep descents and road crossings. Let someone know your plan for longer or more remote routes.

🌦 Weather Notes

Avoid poor visibility, high winds and heavy rain on exposed or high-level sections. Paths may be slippery, boggy or harder to follow after prolonged wet weather.

Local knowledge

💡 Local Tip

Start early for quieter trails and easier parking. Check weather and daylight before setting off, especially outside summer. The best experience is usually in a settled dry spell when the views are clear and the paths are less boggy.

🧭 Navigation Difficulty

Frequently Asked Questions

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More routes nearby

Trail Art · Monetisation · Nice to have

Trail Art

Route Trail Poster

A hand-illustrated trail map poster of this route — perfect for your home or as a gift for a fellow runner. Printed on 300gsm card.

Buy the poster