Accessible Peak District

Accessibility’ might not be the first word to spring to mind when thinking about an active holiday in the Peak District. But actually there aren’t that many peaks in the Peak District at all. Confused? Don’t be. The word ‘peak’ originates from ‘Picts’, an early British tribe that once inhabited the area. Centuries on, the hills are still rounded and there are plenty of smooth trails weaving their way through the wilds of England’s oldest national park – suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters alike.

Take Goyts Lane for example, a flat disused railway that passes through wide-open moorlands with kestrels hovering above and bushes bearing bilberries and crowberries that are perfect for homemade crumble.For more luscious sights you’ll never forget, hit the heather-clad Surprise Path, starting at the Robin Hood Inn near the accessible car park. The path might not be the easiest to push yourself along, but it’s not the most difficult either and it’s well worth that little bit of effort for the striking views that hit you at the finish.

Don’t bother with a camera, the panorama of multi-shaded moorlands sprawling out for miles and the woody smell of heather are best captured in your mind. It’s hard to believe all of this is just 20 minutes from Sheffield.For more accessible trails and experiences in and around the Peak District National Park, check out former paralympian John Harris’ series of short films.