Staffordshire Seven Summits Walk 6 - Gun Hill

By Coriarna Morris

Summit Six Seven Summits Series: An Unforgettable Adventure at Gun Hill — Steep Climbs, Stunning Views, and Birthday Celebrations!

After our great success at Ecton Hill, we were fired up for the next challenge—and Gun Hill certainly lived up to expectations. Our day kicked off at the Lazy Trout Pub, a hidden gem that’s quickly become our go-to starting point. If you’re ever nearby, do yourself a favour and stop in. The food is incredible, and it’s the perfect fuel-up spot before hitting the trails.

The Climb Begins

Our route led us past a charming farm and through rolling fields as we made our way toward the summit. The climb was definitely steep in places, no sugarcoating that! But with every step upward, the views began to open, teasing us with glimpses of what awaited.

By the time we reached the top of Gun Hill, located in protected Moorland, the panorama was absolutely breathtaking. From the summit, you can spot the famous Roaches far off in the distance—majestic and rugged, a reminder of the Peaks’ wild beauty even from afar.

Trig Point Traditions

No summit visit would be complete without our now-traditional trig point photos—the perfect way to mark the achievement and capture memories. The group gathered around the iconic stone marker, smiles wide, ready to celebrate all the hard work that got us there.

Birthday Celebrations on the Trail

This hike was extra special, as we celebrated two birthdays along the way. Lydia’s daughter Annabelle turned one, and Sophie—our stalwart walker who’s joined every single Seven Summit adventure—also marked her special day. Naturally, this called for cake at the pub! It turned a tough climb into a joyful celebration, making the day feel even more memorable.

Reflections on the Day

The combination of steep climbs, stunning scenery, and heartfelt moments made Gun Hill an unforgettable outing. Walking with such an amazing group adds a whole other layer of joy to the experience, and the Lazy Trent’s hospitality bookended the day perfectly.

As we made our way back down, cakes devoured and spirits high, everyone agreed: Gun Hill was challenging but absolutely worth every step.

If Gun Hill sounds like your kind of adventure follow our route on Komoot

Staffordshire Seven Summits Walk 5 - Ecton Hill

By Coriarna Morris

Summit Five Seven Summits Series: Ecton Hill – Copper Mines and Gentle Climbs

Summit five in our Seven Summits Series brought us to one of the Peak District’s hidden gems: Ecton Hill.

Quiet, historic, and surprisingly scenic, this lesser-known peak delivered a perfect mix of gentle walking, fascinating stories, and a bit of unexpected adventure (thanks to one determined dog).

We began our day at Hulme End Café. It’s everything a pre-walk pit stop should be: good coffee, relaxed vibes, and right on the trail. Spirits were high as backpacks were slung on, boots laced tight, and little ones snug in carriers, ready for the day ahead.

Where Industry Meets Countryside

Ecton Hill might not have the headline status of Mam Tor or Kinder Scout, but what it lacks in drama, it makes up for in history.

In the 18th century, this quiet hill was home to some of the richest copper mines in Britain, owned by none other than the Duke of Devonshire. Profits from the mines helped fund the construction of Chatsworth House—a reminder that these peaceful hills once echoed with the sounds of industry. Today, remnants of that past are still scattered across the summit: stone buildings, old shafts, and a tangible sense of the past just beneath your boots.

A Gentler Way Up (Thankfully)

Last time I hiked Ecton Hill, I took the brutal direct route—straight up the steep side, full of regrets and jelly knees. This time, we had Lydia with s, who led us on a longer but much kinder route.

We set off from Hulme End and followed the Manifold Valley, a scenic, almost-flat path that’s ideal for all ages and abilities. It meanders gently past rivers, fields, and shady woodland before beginning a steady climb toward the hill.

The ascent was kind to both legs and lungs, giving us plenty of chances to take in the ever-widening views across Staffordshire’s countryside. The area is far quieter than the better-known peaks, which made the experience feel even more special—like we had the landscape to ourselves.

Drama in the Dales

Of course, no group hike would be complete without a little bit of drama—and this time, it came courtesy of one of the dogs.

About halfway up, a deer shot out across the trail. One of the dogs bolted in hot pursuit, totally ignoring frantic calls. Without hesitation, its owner took off after it—vanishing into the trees. With no phone signal and no way to check in, we were suddenly in a real-life game of Where’s Wally, hillside edition. We huddled just off the path, debating whether someone should head back to the café, or whether to start a group search. It was a good reminder: if you ever need to leave the group, always tell someone. Even the most casual hike can become stressful fast if communication breaks down.

Thankfully, about 20 minutes later, both dog and owner reappeared—muddy, tired, but fine. A few hugs and a lot of relieved laughter followed before we carried on toward the summit.

A Hilltop Worth the Climb

At the top of Ecton Hill, the rewards were huge. We were treated to sweeping 360° views across green patchwork fields, stone walls, and distant ridgelines. It’s the kind of view that makes you stop, exhale, and just...be.

The summit had a laid-back charm to it—quiet, open, and gently impressive. You don’t have to fight for space here like you might on some of the busier peaks. It’s a summit that lets you settle in and stay awhile.

The Descent

Our descent took us around the back of the hill—a smooth, enjoyable route that eventually rejoined a quiet country lane. While there’s a bit of road walking on this final leg, it gave our legs a break and added to the loop’s variety.

And then—cake.

Back at Hulme End Café, we gathered around for the now-traditional post-hike snack review. I opted for the Staffordshire oatcake (7/10: hearty, honest, and very much earned), while others indulged in scones, traybakes, and a dangerously good lemon drizzle. Average cake rating from the group? A solid 7.5/10.

Bonus points to the café for offering free parking with a purchase, which makes planning meet-ups even easier.

A Quiet Classic with a Story to Tell Ecton Hill might not be the boldest name on our Seven Summits list, but it absolutely earned its place. The blend of gentle climbs, historical intrigue, sweeping views, and an easy-going vibe made it a standout in its own right.

There’s something deeply satisfying about discovering the quieter corners of the Peak District—especially when they come with cake, company, and just enough adventure to keep things interesting.

Next up: back to the big hills. But for now, Ecton has set a high bar.

Follow our Ecton Hill route on Komoot if you fancy adding this summit to your list

Staffordshire Seven Summits Walk 4 - The Cloud

Coriarna Morris

Summit Four Seven Summits Series: The Cloud – Stepping Up to New Heights.

This week’s summit took us to The Cloud, a stunning peak near Macclesfield that more than lived up to its name—rising above the landscape and offering one of the most rewarding climbs in the Seven Summits Series so far.

Whether it was the panoramic views, the historical landscape, or just the sense of achievement, The Cloud gave us everything we could’ve asked for and maybe a bit more.

Where History and Hills Collide

The Cloud stands at 1,000 feet (305m), perched on the edge of the Cheshire Plain. Once part of the ancient Macclesfield Forest, this hill has long drawn walkers, nature lovers, and those chasing a bit of solitude above the towns below. From the summit, you can see far across the countryside—to Macclesfield, Congleton, and even catch a glimpse of Jodrell Bank in the distance. It’s the kind of view that makes you stop mid-step just to soak it all in.

The Climb from Timberbrook

We began our ascent from Timberbrook Car Park—a modest but handy starting point, especially with its free parking (just don’t expect facilities). The trail kicks off with no warm-up: it’s straight into an uphill grind that sets the tone early on.

The path winds through a series of inclines and steps—lots of them. But while the steps challenge your legs, they also make the route feel purposeful and rewarding. The occasional level stretches give your lungs a break, but The Cloud doesn’t let you coast for long. It keeps you climbing, one breath at a time.

360° of Wow at the Summit

The payoff at the top? Breathtaking.

We were lucky to have clear skies, which meant uninterrupted views in every direction. The Cheshire countryside opened out below us like a painting, with Macclesfield spread out in one direction and the hills rippling off toward the horizon in another. Of course, we made the most of the summit trig point lining up for both group shots and solo celebrations. It’s become a bit of a tradition now: capturing the joy of reaching another peak together, muddy boots and all.

The Descent, a Dash, and a Downpour

The descent was where things got a little tricky. The same steps that had guided us up became a challenge going down—awkward and uneven in places. Add in tired legs and a couple of toddlers in carriers, and it turned into a slow and careful shuffle.

We were craving a café break by the time we got back to the car park—but The Cloud doesn’t offer those kinds of luxuries. It’s wild, remote, and refreshingly unpolished.

Then, just as we were loading into cars and sharing our final laughs, the sky opened. Out of nowhere, rain poured in sheets—a reminder that nature always has the last word. Thankfully, we’d finished the hike just in time to avoid a soaking on the trail.

A Summit That Stays With You

The Cloud has definitely earned its place as a highlight in our Seven Summits Series. It was challenging, beautiful, and packed with history—but more than that, it was a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come.

Four weeks in, our group is stronger, more confident, and full of shared stories. Every summit has taught us something different—and The Cloud reminded us just how quickly the outdoors can shift from serene to wild. But as always, we adapted, laughed through it, and carried on.

Onward to the next peak. Rain or shine, we’re ready.

Fancy summiting The Cloud yourself follow our route on Komoot

Staffordshire Seven Summits Walk 3 - Bunster Hill

Coriarna Morris

Summit Three Seven Summits Series: Bunster Hill – Wind, Mud, and Second Chances

Bunster Hill marked the third stop in our Staffordshire Blaze Trails Seven Summits series—and it was every bit as challenging, memorable, and muddy as you'd expect from a true Peak District adventure.

A Rocky Start and a Frosty Recce

Our first attempt at climbing Bunster Hill last year had been called off. The wind was relentless, the cold biting, and the group wisely agreed to turn back. But we weren’t ready to give up on this summit just yet.

So this year, we returned for a recce, starting at the beautiful Ilam Youth Hostel. It's a striking building with deep historical roots and made an ideal base with its accessible parking and welcoming atmosphere. A nearby gate led us towards the base of Bunster Hill via the path near the Dovedale Stepping Stones—only this time, nature had its own ideas.

A Battle Through the Mud

What’s normally a pleasant seven-minute stroll quickly became a 30-minute slog. Heavy rain had turned the trail into a mud bath—thick, sticky, and impossible to navigate without slipping. Boots became leaden with layers of sludge, and progress slowed to a crawl.

Hoping to make things easier, we let the dogs off their leads, but even they struggled skidding and skittering around us like four-legged comedians. Despite the chaos, spirits stayed high, and we pushed on through the mire toward the dip in the hill where we’d been forced to turn around last year.

This time, we made it farther—but it wasn’t easy.

A Slippery Lesson

Not every moment was picture-perfect. On one of the muddier sections, I slipped twice with my toddler Nico strapped to my back pack carrier. It was a stark reminder of when to push through and when to turn back. The descent was particularly treacherous, with everyone moving cautiously to stay upright. At one point, we considered pressing on to the stepping stones at Dovedale, but the trail had other ideas. We slipped, slid, and finally made the call to turn back again.

Styles, Dogs, and Determination - Even on the safer route, things weren’t easy.

Navigating stiles with toddlers and energetic dogs added another layer of challenge. We helped each other over, carried the little ones when needed, and kept going—with plenty of laughs (and a few sighs) along the way.

Not Every Summit is a Straight Line

We didn’t conquer Bunster Hill on the first try, and even the second came with unexpected hurdles. But that’s the beauty of trail adventures—they’re unpredictable, humbling, and often a lesson in when to know your limits. We ended the day with a small celebration for Blaze’s second birthday—snacks, and stories from a muddy, unforgettable hike.

Bunster Hill didn’t give up its summit easily— I’ll be back...... On to the next one!

Think you can conquer Bunster Hill follow our route on Komoot

Bunster Hill – Take Two

This time, the weather was on our side. After a long dry spell, the hill was far less slippery and much safer than before. Optimism was high.

We kicked off from the familiar Ilam Hostel, crossed past the statue, and approached the hill with fresh eyes. The route was a little different too. Instead of the usual straight up slog, we veered left out of the gate on a suggestion from Keziah, one of the mums with us. New route, new hope.

The hill looked dry and inviting, and with clear skies overhead, it finally felt like the summit was truly within reach.

The Climb

Make no mistake—this route was brutal.

Not just a bit of a climb, but the kind that sets your legs on fire and steals your breath. But it was also magnificent.

The views?

Absolutely stunning. Rolling English countryside stretched out in every direction. Sheep stood calmly in the fields, and the dry stone walls of Peak District framed the landscape like something out of a postcard.

And then — we made it. The summit of Buster Hill.

It felt incredible. Not just because we’d finally reached the top, but because this was my third attempt. The first was cut short by cold and wind. The second by mud and slippery trails. But today? Today was perfect. Dry ground, calm skies, and sheer determination.

We soaked it all in, snapped a few triumphant photos, then made our way back down, boots muddy but spirits soaring.

And yes, we finished the day the right way—back at the café, boots off, smiles wide, and well-earned rest in hand.