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▶Bamford Edge
Iconic gritstone ridge above Ladybower Reservoir delivering one of the Peak District's most photographed views.
Loop
About
A gritstone ridge with overhanging outcrops offering unobstructed views across Ladybower Reservoir and into the Dark Peak, plus around 150 climbing routes for all abilities.
Bamford Edge is a gritstone rock outcrop sitting roughly 1.5 kilometres north of the village of Bamford in Derbyshire, perched at around 390 to 400 metres above sea level. The ridge faces south-west over the Hope Valley, and from the two famous overhanging gritstone outcrops you get an unobstructed panorama across Ladybower Reservoir and Win Hill — on a clear day the view stretches far into the Dark Peak moorland. The edge is also a serious traditional climbing venue with around 150 routes graded D to E7, so on weekends you will likely see climbers on the crag below the path.
The most popular approach is the short circular from the free roadside laybys on New Road (postcode S33 0AD), which gets you onto the edge within 10 to 15 minutes of leaving the car. The path begins steeply up a well-worn dirt track, eases off after the first push, then runs along the ridge passing two large protruding gritstone platforms — the second and further one is the classic photo spot. The descent back is gradual and comfortable. For a longer day out, the full Bamford Edge Ladybower Circular extends the loop down to Ladybower Dam and back through mixed terrain of woodland, reservoir path and open hillside.
The trailhead layby on New Road fills quickly on sunny weekends, so aim to arrive before 9am or use the paid Heatherdene car park (S33 0BY) as a fallback. Heatherdene has toilets, a water fountain and is occasionally served by an ice cream van in summer. The Anglers Rest in Bamford village — a community-owned pub, cafe and post office — makes a natural finish to any circular route.
Why go
- The two overhanging gritstone outcrops on the ridge deliver a straight-down view over Ladybower Reservoir that has made this one of the most photographed spots in the Peak District.
- The short route from the New Road layby reaches the viewpoint in under 20 minutes, making it accessible for families and those short on time, while a longer circular option takes in the reservoir dam and woodland.
- The ridge is very exposed and can be seriously windy; the path back down becomes slippery after heavy rain or snow, so boots are strongly advised.
- Bamford Edge is also a traditional climbing crag with around 150 routes, so expect climbers on the rock below the path on fine weekends.
- The Anglers Rest, a community-owned pub and cafe in Bamford village, is a short walk away and sits naturally at the end of any circular route.
Before you go
- The most popular route. Start from the New Road layby (S33 0AD). Cross the stile and take the left-hand path for a steadier ascent. The path steepens initially then eases as you gain the ridge. Walk south-west along the edge past the first gritstone outcrop to the larger overhanging viewpoint with Ladybower directly below. Continue along the ridge to its southern end. Descend via the moorland path to the road, then follow the route down to Ladybower Dam. Cross the dam and follow the reservoir path and woodland trail back to the car park or layby.
- Path becomes slippery and boggy after rain or snow; ridge is very exposed in high winds
- Not suitable for buggies or wheelchairs.
Map
Open mapReviews
Read all 5Lovely view of Castleton from the edge. You can park right next to the hiking trail start point which will save 30mins of walking. Slightly steep at the top otherwise lovely moderate trail.
What a great little hike. We got off at Bamford Station, nice easy walk through the village. Easily signposted, spectacular views , need a nice day for pictures. Well worth the visit .
Tips
0Where is Bamford Edge and how do I get there?+
Bamford Edge is located about 1.5 kilometres north of Bamford village in the Hope Valley, Derbyshire. The most popular starting point is the free roadside laybys on New Road, postcode S33 0AD.
Is there free parking at Bamford Edge?+
Yes, there are free roadside laybys on New Road near the trailhead. However, these fill up quickly on sunny weekends, so aim to arrive before 9am or use the paid Heatherdene car park (S33 0BY) as an alternative.
Are there toilets near Bamford Edge?+
The free laybys on New Road do not have facilities, but the nearby Heatherdene car park (S33 0BY) has toilets and a water fountain.
Featured in
1 guide
Showing the start and the waymarked paths nearby. The route line is added with a GPX file.
The most popular route. Start from the New Road layby (S33 0AD). Cross the stile and take the left-hand path for a steadier ascent. The path steepens initially then eases as you gain the ridge. Walk south-west along the edge past the first gritstone outcrop to the larger overhanging viewpoint with Ladybower directly below. Continue along the ridge to its southern end. Descend via the moorland path to the road, then follow the route down to Ladybower Dam. Cross the dam and follow the reservoir path and woodland trail back to the car park or layby.
- 1. Start at the New Road layby (S33 0AD). Cross the stile at the roadside to join the hillside footpath.
- 2. At the immediate fork take the left-hand path -- it gives a steadier gradient than the direct line straight uphill.
- 3. Push up the steepest section (roughly the first 200 m); the gradient eases once you clear the initial slope.
- 4. Follow the ridge path south-west, passing the first gritstone outcrop, to reach the larger overhanging platform -- the classic viewpoint over Ladybower.
- 5. Continue along the edge to its southern end where a wall curves around the path.
- 6. Descend the moorland slope, which steepens towards the bottom; take care on wet or icy ground.
- 7. Reach the road and follow it down to Ladybower Dam at the southern end of the reservoir.
- 8. Cross the dam and pick up the reservoir-side path heading north through mixed woodland.
- 9. Follow the path back along the reservoir bank to return to the Heatherdene area or retrace to the New Road layby.
A longer mixed-terrain loop taking in Ladybower Reservoir, woodland, farmland and open hillside as well as the edge itself. Includes some road sections; care needed on rougher descents in wet conditions. Parking is limited so arrive early on weekends.
- 1. Start from Heatherdene car park (S33 0BY) or New Road layby (S33 0AD).
- 2. Follow the reservoir-side path south along Ladybower's eastern bank.
- 3. Cross Ladybower Dam at the southern end and follow the road into Bamford village.
- 4. From Bamford, follow footpaths and lanes north-east, ascending through farmland towards the edge.
- 5. Gain the ridge at the southern end of Bamford Edge and follow the path north-west along the gritstone escarpment.
- 6. Pass the overhanging viewpoint outcrops with Ladybower below.
- 7. Continue to the northern end of the edge and descend via moorland paths, crossing Jarvis Clough.
- 8. Follow the bridleway and field paths back down to the road and return to the start.
Trail details
- Route typeLoop
- Terrainmoorland, gritstone edge, woodland, reservoir path
- Best seasonSpring, Summer, Autumn
- Dog friendlyYes
- Buggy or wheelchairNot suitable
Path becomes slippery and boggy after rain or snow; ridge is very exposed in high winds
Getting there
- ParkingNew Road laybys (free, ~10-15 spaces) or Heatherdene Car Park (paid, S33 0BY)
- Parking costFree on New Road; £6.00 all day at Heatherdene (contactless or coin)
- PostcodeS33 0AD
Features
More information
Getting there
- ParkingNew Road laybys (free, ~10-15 spaces) or Heatherdene Car Park (paid, S33 0BY)
- Parking costFree on New Road; £6.00 all day at Heatherdene (contactless or coin)
- PostcodeS33 0AD
Reviews
5 on GoogleLovely view of Castleton from the edge. You can park right next to the hiking trail start point which will save 30mins of walking. Slightly steep at the top otherwise lovely moderate trail.
What a great little hike. We got off at Bamford Station, nice easy walk through the village. Easily signposted, spectacular views , need a nice day for pictures. Well worth the visit .
The hike from the parking lot to the cliff top isn't very long, taking about two hours, making it a moderate-intensity hike. Along the way, you'll pass a picturesque and tranquil bamboo forest where you can rest. Afterward, the path becomes more rugged and steep, filled with loose rocks, so be careful. Finally, you'll reach a cliff with stunning views of the dam. It's recommended to have a picnic here and enjoy the scenery before descending along the path or on the other side back to the parking lot.
Had an amazing hike to Bamford Edge! It’s a perfect short trek for a day trip, easy to moderate and very refreshing. The views at the top are absolutely stunning, especially overlooking Ladybower Reservoir. Great spot for photos, relaxing, and enjoying nature. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a quick escape from the city!
Definitely worth planning a visit to Bamford Edge. The views are spectacular, so many great spots for photos or to sit and have lunch! Parking is tricky, Heatherdene Car Park is great for those looking for a long hike/walk to Bamford edge. But the car park is very popular and fills very quickly. I’d recommend an alternative of parking along the side of ‘New Road’ (Either towards the bottom or top of the road depending on how long of a hike you’re looking for)
Tips
0Questions
7Where is Bamford Edge and how do I get there?+
Bamford Edge is located about 1.5 kilometres north of Bamford village in the Hope Valley, Derbyshire. The most popular starting point is the free roadside laybys on New Road, postcode S33 0AD.
Is there free parking at Bamford Edge?+
Yes, there are free roadside laybys on New Road near the trailhead. However, these fill up quickly on sunny weekends, so aim to arrive before 9am or use the paid Heatherdene car park (S33 0BY) as an alternative.
Are there toilets near Bamford Edge?+
The free laybys on New Road do not have facilities, but the nearby Heatherdene car park (S33 0BY) has toilets and a water fountain.
Is Bamford Edge dog friendly?+
This is open access moorland with public footpaths, so dogs are generally able to walk here, though no official pet policy is confirmed for this specific site. Keep dogs under control, especially near the edge and on the boggy sections.
How long does it take to walk to the top of Bamford Edge?+
From the New Road laybys you can reach the edge within 10 to 15 minutes. The path starts steeply before easing off along the ridge.
What are the views like from Bamford Edge?+
The edge offers a panoramic south-west facing view across Ladybower Reservoir and Win Hill, with the Dark Peak moorland stretching beyond on a clear day. The two overhanging gritstone outcrops, particularly the second one, are the classic photography spots.
Is there a pub nearby after the walk?+
Yes, The Anglers Rest is located in Bamford village, making it a convenient stop after your walk.