Derwent Watershed

The Derwent Watershed traces the high ground surrounding the Derwent headwaters — the reservoirs of Ladybower, Derwent and Howden — in a circuit of the northern Dark Peak. The route visits the gritstone edges and peat moors of Bleaklow, Kinder Scout and Margery Hill, taking in the wildest terrain in the Peak District.

At around 140 km with approximately 4,500 m of ascent, it is a major challenge — most runners take 20 to 30 hours for a continuous round. Navigation is the key skill: the Dark Peak moorland is featureless in mist and the peat hags disorient even experienced navigators.

The Derwent Watershed is a traditional challenge for northern fell runners but has no official status.

The circuit typically starts from Fairholmes car park at the Derwent Reservoir. Anti-clockwise: North over the Howden Moors to Margery Hill and Outer Edge. West across Bleaklow (633 m) — navigation in peat hags. South over the Snake Pass to Kinder Scout (636 m). East along the southern edge of Kinder — Mam Tor, Lose Hill. Back north via the eastern edges — Stanage, Derwent Edge — to the finish.

Start/finish: Fairholmes car park, Derwent Valley. Bus (summer weekends only) from Bamford (train from Sheffield). A car is needed for most attempts.

Best time: June to September. The peat is at its most passable in dry summer conditions.