Kinder Downfall Walk

7 miles (11.3 km)

Climb to the tallest waterfall in the Peak District on this circular walk from the Peak District village of Hayfield.
From the high points on the walk there are splendid views towards Liverpool, Manchester and North Wales.
Walk Report October 11th 2026 By James Fletcher:
The walk from Hayfield to Kinder Downfall is a proper Peak District outing, with a good climb, open moorland and some impressive views along the way. I set off along Kinder Road towards Kinder Reservoir, where the scenery opens up and the hills begin to feel much wilder.... The path beside the water was a pleasant start before the more demanding climb towards William Clough and the high ground beyond.
Once up on the moors, the landscape changes dramatically. There are stretches of rough, rocky ground, patches of heather and far-reaching views across the surrounding hills. On a clear day you can see towards Manchester and Liverpool, with the Welsh mountains visible in the distance. The wind was much stronger on the exposed plateau, so I was glad to have an extra layer with me.
Kinder Downfall was the main attraction, and it is easy to understand why walkers make the journey out here. The River Kinder plunges around 30 metres over the edge of the plateau, although the amount of water varies considerably with the weather. With a strong westerly wind, the spray can even be blown back up over the rocks. I spent a while taking in the view before continuing along the Pennine Way towards Kinder Low and its distinctive white trig point.
The return across the high ground was just as memorable, with gritstone formations and wide views replacing the more sheltered scenery around the reservoir. I was very pleased to see a mountain hare running across the fields as I descended. The paths can be boggy and difficult to follow in places, particularly in poor weather, so I would recommend proper walking boots and carrying a map or GPS rather than relying entirely on the path underfoot. Visibility can change quickly up here, too.
After descending towards Hayfield, it was a relief to be back among the lanes and houses of the village. The Lantern Pike Inn nearby makes a tempting stop for food or a drink after the walk. This is a rewarding route for anyone who enjoys rugged upland scenery, but it is worth allowing plenty of time and checking the weather before setting out.
To further explore the magnificent plateau try our Kinder Scout From Edale Walk or the Jacob's Ladder circular walk.
Pubs and More Info
After your walk I headed to the appropriately named Lantern Pike Inn in Hayfield. The interesting old pub dates from 1792, and has a very good menu. There's also a nice outdoor seating area where you can relax outside and enjoy views of the surrounding hills. You can find the pub in the village on 45 Glossop Rd, Little Hayfield with postcode SK222NG for your sat navs. The pub also does accommodation so you can stay over here if you need to.
In Hayfield you could pick up the popular Sett Valley Trail. The shared cycling and walking trail runs along a disused railway line to New Mills. On the way there's bluebell woods, another small reservoir and a delightful little cafe to stop off at.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Peak District Walks page.