On 24th April 1932, over 400 walkers assembled right here in Hayfield to stage a radical act of defiance—a mass trespass onto the forbidden moorlands of Kinder Scout. What began as a working-class clash with wealthy landowners over the right to walk in open spaces ultimately sparked a national movement. It directly paved the way for our UK National Parks, the creation of the Pennine Way, and the Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000.
Explore our resources below to uncover the history, controversy, and modern legacy of Hayfield’s central role in the Right to Roam movement.
Trespass News
Keep up to date with our latest historical discoveries, research, archive updates, and media coverage regarding the 1932 Mass Trespass. From televised documentaries to local findings, read our latest press releases and articles here.
Trespass 24th April 1932
Dive deep into the full history of the iconic day itself. Learn about the political context of the 1930s, the confrontation between Manchester and Sheffield ramblers and local gamekeepers, the subsequent arrest and imprisonment of five of the leaders, and the complex realities and controversies that surround the event.
Hayfield and the Right to Roam Booklet
Discover how one beautiful Peak District village has stood at the absolute forefront of access campaigning for over 130 years. This downloadable booklet details the journey from the historical Enclosures all the way to modern campaigns. All proceeds support our ongoing educational and festival work.
2016 Hayfield Plaque
Learn about the physical commemoration of this heritage in our local landscape. This section highlights the dedication of the 2016 Hayfield Plaque, serving as a permanent landmark in the village to honour the trespassers who congregated here before setting off on their historic walk.
The Hayfield Kinder Pledge
The fight for our landscapes didn’t end in 1932. Inspired by historical access victories, the Hayfield Kinder Pledge brings together over 40 outdoor organisations under the Outdoors for All coalition. Read the pledge, find out about its launch, and learn how you can add your name as a supporter to defend the fragile access rights we have today.
Benny Rothman Blue Plaque
Discover the legacy of Bernard “Benny” Rothman, the iconic working-class activist who led over 400 ramblers from Hayfield in 1932. For his role in the mass protest, Benny was jailed for four months—but his fight for social justice and access didn’t stop there. Learn about the official blue plaque unveiled at his Timperley home of 58 years, celebrating his lifelong journey as a trade unionist, campaigner, and champion for the Right to Roam.