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The Roaches

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Moorland, Cliffs, Woodland

Walking, Climbing

Year round

Photo: Steve Partridge via Geograph.org.uk

The Roaches are a dramatic ridge of gritstone rocks rising above the moors near Leek, in the Staffordshire part of the Peak District, their name coming from the French for rocks. A line of weathered crags runs along the top, rising to about 505 metres, with wide views over the Cheshire plain and the...

4

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

1 day, 3 overnight

The Winking Man – Upper Hulme, Ye Olde Rock Inn – Upper Hulme, The Lazy Trout – Meerbrook

Lavender Retreat, The Laburnum Retreat, Pine Cottage

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is The Roaches?
Staffordshire Moorlands contain this high ridge within the Peak District National Park. Hikers can easily spot the rocky outcrops rising high above the surrounding fields.

What type of place is The Roaches?
The Roaches is a rugged gritstone ridge located in the Peak District in Staffordshire.

When is the best time to visit The Roaches?
Autumn mornings offer the crispest air and best atmospheric clarity for exploring the high rocky paths. Clear days during any season will still provide great views across the valley.

What can you do at The Roaches?
Walking along the exposed upper tier allows you to experience the wild heather and look for legendary rock clefts like Lud's Church. Experienced climbers also frequent the area to scale iconic traditional routes like Valkyrie.

How long should I spend at The Roaches?
Allocating a full afternoon gives you plenty of time to hike the ridges comfortably. Dedicated climbers often spend the entire day tackling the different rock faces.

Where do I park at The Roaches?
Spaces for four vehicles sit nearby, split into one day spot and three overnight spaces. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near The Roaches?
The Winking Man - Upper Hulme, Ye Olde Rock Inn - Upper Hulme, and The Lazy Trout - Meerbrook offer three choices close to the ridge. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near The Roaches?
Lavender Retreat, The Laburnum Retreat, and Pine Cottage provide three nearby options if you want to stay overnight. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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