Rainster and Harborough Rocks

Difficulty: Medium

Length: 9.20 Miles

Parking at the National Stone Centre (£5.00 parking all day), the walk starts along the old railway line which is part of the High Peak Trail, and climbs up to Middleton Top. 


The walk is mostly on good paths with a few steep sections. It passes through the pretty village of Brassington which has two pubs, and makes an ideal place to break your walk for lunch.


The walk continues towards Carsington, and climbs steeply up the hillside before rejoining the High Peak Trail back to the National Stone Centre.

Further Information

The National Stone Centre

The National Stone Centre is a museum and heritage discovery centre dedicated to the history of stone quarrying and stone working in the Peak District. It is located at Wirksworth, near Matlock Bath in Derbyshire. The centre has a variety of exhibits on the history of stone quarrying and stone working, including a working quarry, where visitors can see how stone is quarried today. The centre also has a number of workshops and events throughout the year, where visitors can learn more about stone.


Middleton Top

Middleton Top is a hilltop village in Derbyshire. It is located on the Pennine Way, at the highest point of the A623 road. The village is known for its views of the Peak District countryside, and for its many stone quarries. Middleton Top is also a popular destination for walkers and cyclists. There are a number of footpaths and cycle paths in the surrounding area, including the Pennine Way.


Carsington Reservoir

Carsington Reservoir is a reservoir in Derbyshire. It is located on the River Derwent, and is the largest reservoir in the Peak District. The reservoir is popular for fishing, boating, and watersports. There are a number of boat hire companies on the shores of the reservoir, and there are also a number of watersports centres. Carsington Reservoir is also a popular destination for walkers and cyclists. There are a number of footpaths and cycle paths in the surrounding area.


Brassington Village

Brassington is a village in Derbyshire. It is located on the River Derwent, and is close to Carsington Reservoir. The village is known for its historic buildings, including its 12th-century church. Brassington is also a popular destination for walkers and cyclists. There are a number of footpaths and cycle paths in the surrounding area.


I hope this article has given you some ideas for things to see and do in the Peak District. If you are planning a trip to the Peak District, be sure to visit the National Stone Centre, Middleton Top, Carsington Reservoir, and Brassington Village. These four places offer something for everyone, and they are sure to make your trip to the Peak District unforgettable.

What will I see on this walk?