Baslow Edge

Dramatic gritstone escarpment with moorland trails, Highland cattle, and sweeping views over the Derwent Valley.

Why go

  • Dramatic gritstone escarpment with sweeping panoramic views across the Derwent Valley to Chatsworth Estate.
  • Home to the iconic Eagle Stone, a 6-metre freestanding boulder tied to local tradition.
  • Herds of Highland cattle roam the moorland, wildlife includes red deer, kestrels and curlews.
  • Multiple route options from easy 1.7-mile loops to challenging 11-mile circuits linking nearby Curbar and Froggatt Edges.
  • Outstanding sunset viewpoint accessible without serious climbing, though sections can be boggy after rain.

Full route

Baslow Edge Short Walk
2.7 km / 1.7 mi · 180 ft / 55 m · 1 to 1.5 hours · Easy
Flat circular walk from Curbar Gap, popular with families. Excellent for viewing Eagle Stone and Highland cattle. Boulder-strewn terrain suitable for children.
  1. From Curbar Gap car park, cross the A621 road and head right along the elevated footpath.
  2. After 100 metres, pass through the gate on your left and continue along the moorland path.
  3. After 50 metres a path branches right to a viewpoint with topograph map.
  4. Follow the path left from the viewpoint along the gritstone edge of Baslow Edge for 1 km.
  5. Continue to Wellington's Monument (a gritstone cross honouring the Duke of Wellington).
  6. From Wellington's Monument, head towards Eagle Stone, the famous 6-metre gritstone boulder.
  7. From Eagle Stone, continue along the footpath for 1 km through Eaglestone Flat back to the road.
  8. Return to Curbar Gap car park.
Curbar Edge and Baslow Edge Circular
7.3 mi / 11.8 km · 1,223 ft / 373 m · 3.5 to 4 hours · Moderate
Popular combined walk linking two major edges. Includes woodland path, moorland trail, and panoramic vistas. Some rough sections require careful footing, especially when wet. Wear waterproof boots as moorland can be boggy.
  1. From Curbar Gap car park, follow the top of Curbar Edge heading north-west.
  2. Descend gently through woodland path and moorland trail, climbing to surrounding hills.
  3. Cross the A621 road at Baslow Gap and join Bar Road.
  4. Follow the relatively flat top of Baslow Edge heading south-east.
  5. Pass Wellington's Monument and Eagle Stone on the moorland section.
  6. Continue along Baslow Edge with views across Derwent Valley.
  7. Descend back towards Curbar Gap car park via the lower moorland paths.
  8. Return to Curbar Gap car park.

A 6-metre freestanding gritstone boulder known as the Eagle Stone anchors this dramatic moorland escarpment with panoramic views over the Derwent Valley and Chatsworth Estate.

£0 to £0ppDog FriendlyPanoramic View

Baslow Edge is one of the Peak District’s most striking gritstone escarpments, located just outside Baslow village on the Eastern Moors. The edge forms part of a dramatic chain of cliffs including Curbar and Froggatt Edges, offering sweeping panoramic views across the Derwent Valley and towards Chatsworth Estate. The moorland terrain is dotted with impressive rock formations-notably the famous Eagle Stone, a freestanding 6-metre gritstone boulder steeped in local legend. You may spot herds of Highland cattle roaming the open moorland, particularly near the Eagle Stone area. The nearby Wellington Monument commemorates the Duke of Wellington’s 1815 victory at Waterloo. Most walks follow well-marked paths along the rocky ridge through heather moorland, with the edge itself offering outstanding sunset viewpoints. Terrain ranges from dirt paths to rocky scrambles.

2.7 to 11.8 km (depending on route) Distance 1.7 to 7.3 mi
180 to 1,223 ft / 55 t... Ascent o 373 m; depending on route
1 to 4 hours Duration depending on route
Easy to Moderate Difficulty

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Reviews

4.8 ★★★★★ 5 reviews
Chris Hutchinson 5 months ago
★★★★★

Had a great time out with the dogs at the weekend here . Lovely views loads of walkers there . Parking is hard if you go late morning. Best to get there a bit early to get a spot .

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FAQ

Is Baslow Edge suitable for children?

Yes, the trail is family-friendly and can be a great introduction to walking for kids. Children should always be supervised near the rocky edge itself, and sturdy footwear is recommended for the uneven terrain.

When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?

Arrive early in the morning or late in the day, especially on sunny weekends and school holidays, as the area can get busy. Weekday visits are generally much quieter, and early mornings also offer the best light for the panoramic views.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear sturdy walking boots, as the trails include rocky and uneven sections and can be muddy in places. Dress in layers and check the weather forecast before you go, as moorland conditions can change quickly.

Do I need to book, or can I just turn up?

No booking is needed, Baslow Edge is open year-round with no entry fee or reservations required. Simply turn up and follow the well-marked waymarked trails from the car park.

Is Baslow Edge accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs?

Unfortunately, the terrain is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs, as the paths are rocky and uneven in places. Confident walkers with good footwear will find many sections manageable, but it is an open moorland trail rather than a surfaced path.

Where can I park, and is there public transport?

Parking is not confirmed for this specific listing, but the edge is reached via walking routes from Baslow village or nearby roadside areas on the Eastern Moors. Check ahead for the nearest official parking before you go.

Are dogs welcome, and is it safe around the Highland cattle?

The Highland cattle that roam this moorland, particularly near the Eagle Stone, should be given a respectful, wide distance. If you bring a dog, keep it under close control, though an official pet policy for this open moorland site is not confirmed.