Bamford Edge: Scenic Gritstone Overlook in the Peak District
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Bamford Edge is a striking gritstone escarpment rising about 420 meters above sea level near Bamford village in the Hope Valley, Peak District National Park, England. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir, Win Hill, and the surrounding moorlands. Renowned for its natural beauty, walking trails, and dramatic sunsets, Bamford Edge is a favorite spot for hikers, climbers, and photographers seeking a quintessential Peak District experience.
A brief summary to Bamford Edge
- Ashopton Rd, Hope Valley, S33 0AD, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Park at New Road or Heatherdene car park where parking costs around £3 with card payment available.
- Wear sturdy footwear for the steep but manageable 30-45 minute uphill walk to the edge.
- Visit late afternoon to catch spectacular sunsets over Ladybower Reservoir from the west-facing viewpoint.
- Be cautious near the hanging rock photo spot; the drop is deceptive and safety is important especially with children.
- Check public transport schedules in advance as buses in the Peak District can be infrequent.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Bamford Edge is the most convenient option. Park along New Road or at Heatherdene car park in Hope Valley. Parking costs approximately £3 with card payment. The walk from parking to the edge takes about 30-45 minutes uphill. Roads can be narrow, so park considerately.
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Public Transport
Take a train to Hope Station, then catch the 257 bus towards Sheffield, alighting at Lydgate Lane. From there, it is a 10-minute walk to New Road, the start of the Bamford Edge walk. Bus services are infrequent, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
For experienced walkers, a circular hike from Hope village includes Bamford Edge and Ladybower Reservoir, covering about 3.8 miles. The terrain involves steady uphill sections and moorland paths, suitable for most with moderate fitness.
Bamford Edge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Bamford Edge
Geological and Natural Features of Bamford Edge
Bamford Edge is a prominent gritstone overhang located on Bamford Moor, north of the village of Bamford in Derbyshire's Hope Valley. The edge rises approximately 420 meters (1381 feet) above sea level, presenting a rugged rock face that attracts climbers with over 150 traditional climbing routes ranging in difficulty from D to E7. The gritstone formation is part of the Pennines range and offers a dramatic vantage point over the surrounding Peak District landscape. The moorland surrounding Bamford Edge is home to rare ground-nesting birds and seasonal displays of vibrant heather, which colors the hillside purple and green in late summer. This natural environment supports diverse wildlife and provides a protected habitat within the Peak District National Park.Panoramic Views and Landscape Highlights
From the summit of Bamford Edge, visitors are treated to sweeping views across Hope Valley. The vantage point overlooks the iconic Ladybower Reservoir—a large water body known for its distinctive bellmouth spillways called “plugholes.” To the east, the vivid peak of Win Hill stands prominently, while other landmarks such as Mam Tor, Peveril Castle, and the Winnats Pass can be glimpsed on clear days. The west-facing viewpoint along the edge is particularly famous for spectacular sunsets that reflect off the reservoir’s surface, making it a romantic and photogenic destination. The landscape’s mix of moorland, water, and distant hills embodies the quintessential Peak District scenery.Walking Trails and Outdoor Activities
Bamford Edge offers accessible hiking routes, including a popular 3.8-mile circular walk starting near New Road in Hope Valley. The ascent to the edge is a steady uphill climb taking about 30 to 45 minutes, suitable for most walkers. Once at the top, a path follows the gritstone edge, providing multiple photo opportunities and chances to spot local wildlife. The area is also a traditional climbing hotspot, with routes that challenge experienced climbers. Trails connect Bamford Edge to nearby attractions such as Stanage Edge and Castleton, enabling extended exploration of the Peak District’s rugged terrain.Historical and Cultural Context
The Hope Valley area, where Bamford Edge is situated, has a rich history dating back to the Domesday Book and earlier. Nearby hills like Win Hill and Lose Hill are linked to ancient battles, and the valley itself has long been a route for trade and travel. Bamford village and the surrounding moorlands have retained their rural charm, contributing to the cultural heritage of Derbyshire. The construction of Ladybower Reservoir between 1935 and 1943 transformed the valley’s landscape, creating a striking contrast between natural and engineered features visible from the edge.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors to Bamford Edge can enjoy a tranquil yet invigorating outdoor experience with well-maintained footpaths and scenic viewpoints. Parking is available along New Road and at Heatherdene car park, which offers toilets and a drinking fountain. Nearby pubs such as the Yorkshire Bridge Inn and The Anglers Rest provide refreshment options. While public transport options exist, they can be infrequent, so planning ahead is advisable. The area’s natural beauty and accessibility make it a favored destination for day trips, photography, and nature walks throughout the year.Conservation and Environmental Significance
As part of the Peak District National Park, Bamford Edge is protected to preserve its natural habitats and geological features. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize impact on the environment. The moorland ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, and the area’s management balances recreational use with conservation priorities. The edge’s popularity for climbing and hiking is matched by efforts to maintain the integrity of the landscape and ensure sustainable tourism.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bamford Edge
0.0 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Carl Wark
6.3 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Baslow Edge
11.6 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
The Endcliffe Campus
12.2 km
A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Lost & Found Sheffield
12.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Friesday Belgian Fries
13.4 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
13.4 km
Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Millers Dale Viaduct
13.5 km
Experience the breathtaking Millers Dale Viaduct on the Monsal Trail, a stunning bridge offering rich history and picturesque views in the heart of the Peak District.
Arts Tower
13.7 km
Discover the Arts Tower in Sheffield: A modernist architectural marvel and cultural hub offering panoramic city views and vibrant arts experiences.
Birchen Edge
14.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and exhilarating adventures at Birchen Edge, a premier viewpoint in the scenic Peak District.
Devonshire Quarter
14.2 km
Sheffield's indie heart: wander Division Street's boutiques, sip in historic pubs, and unwind on Devonshire Green in this urban village gem.
Crack The Code Escape Rooms Sheffield
14.5 km
Experience the thrill of teamwork and mystery at Crack The Code Escape Rooms in Sheffield, where every game unlocks an adventure.
Sheffield War Memorial
14.6 km
A solemn and iconic Grade II* listed cenotaph in Sheffield city centre, honoring the city's wartime sacrifices with striking sculptures and historic symbolism.
Bishops' House
14.6 km
Explore Bishops' House in Sheffield: a historical gem blending rich heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant community events.
The Museum
14.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Museum, Sheffield's beloved pub and restaurant, where local flavors meet a lively social scene.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stepping Stones
3.5 km
A tranquil natural river crossing in Watford offering scenic walks and gentle adventure for all ages.
Castleton
6.1 km
Discover Castleton, Hope Valley’s charming village famed for ancient castles, unique Blue John caverns, and stunning Peak District landscapes.
Castleton Visitor Centre
6.2 km
Your welcoming gateway to Castleton’s history, nature, and the Peak District’s breathtaking landscapes.
Peveril Castle
6.2 km
Explore the atmospheric Norman ruins of Peveril Castle, crowned by sweeping views over Castleton and the Peak District’s scenic valleys.
Peak Cavern
6.3 km
Explore Britain’s largest natural cave entrance and historic rope-making cavern beneath Castleton’s iconic cliffs.
Cave Dale
6.3 km
Explore the rugged limestone valley of Cave Dale, where dramatic cliffs frame historic Peveril Castle in the heart of the Peak District.
Lawrencefield
6.6 km
Dramatic gritstone cliffs and tranquil ponds in the heart of the Peak District's climbing country.
Speedwell Cavern
7.1 km
Explore a historic lead mine on a unique underground boat tour beneath the Peak District’s dramatic Winnats Pass.
Treak Cliff Cavern
7.3 km
Explore a working Blue John stone mine with stunning geological formations and rare minerals in the Peak District.
National Trust - Padley Gorge
7.4 km
Waterfall-carved woodland ravine where ancient forest meets cascading streams in the heart of the Peak District.
Derwent Reservoir
7.4 km
Historic reservoir and dam in Peak District with stunning views, scenic walks, and wartime heritage near Hope Valley.
The Blind Bull
7.7 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering seasonal British cuisine, cozy rooms, and warm countryside hospitality in Little Hucklow.
Winnats Pass
7.7 km
Experience the breathtaking limestone gorge of Winnats Pass, a scenic and historic route through the heart of Hope Valley’s Peak District.
Blue John Cavern
7.7 km
Discover Britain’s rare Blue John stone in Castleton’s spectacular limestone caves, where history and geology intertwine beneath the Peak District.
Dark Peak Estate
7.9 km
Explore the wild moorlands and gritstone edges of the Dark Peak Estate, a dramatic upland landscape in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
Essential places to dine
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn
5.8 km
Historic village inn and pub in Castleton offering cozy rooms, hearty English fare, and a warm welcome in the heart of the Peak District.
Ye Olde Nags Head
6.0 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Castleton offering cozy pub vibes, hearty British fare, and a lively community atmosphere.
1530 The Restaurant
6.0 km
Charming Italian restaurant in Castleton offering fresh homemade dishes and vegan options in a cozy historic setting within the Peak District.
The Anchor Inn
9.8 km
A classic Peak District pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tideswell.
The Merchant's Yard
10.6 km
A charming boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant in Tideswell, blending historic character with seasonal Peak District cuisine.
Derbyshire Eats
10.6 km
Experience refined dining and bespoke catering excellence in the charming village of Tideswell at Derbyshire Eats.
Rafters Restaurant
11.0 km
Discover Sheffield’s refined modern British dining at Rafters, where rustic charm meets innovative flavors and impeccable service.
The Horse & Jockey
11.0 km
A cozy, traditional village pub and B&B in Tideswell offering hearty meals, warm fires, and comfortable rooms in the Peak District.
Borgo Antica Osteria
11.1 km
Experience authentic Italian hospitality and cuisine in Sheffield’s warm and welcoming Borgo Antica Osteria.
The Eating House
11.1 km
A cozy café nestled in Derbyshire Craft Centre offering fresh, inclusive menus and a warm community atmosphere in Hope Valley.
Urban Choola
12.0 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with a modern twist at Urban Choola, Sheffield’s vibrant dining destination on Ecclesall Road.
La Luna Restaurant
12.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and a warm BYO atmosphere await you at La Luna on Sheffield’s vibrant Ecclesall Road.
Olive
12.1 km
Mediterranean-inspired dining with Italian and Moroccan flair, set in a warm, rustic Sheffield venue with artistic charm and attentive service.
NO NAME
12.4 km
An intimate, creative bistro in Sheffield’s vibrant Crookes suburb offering bold flavors, cozy vibes, and BYOB dining Wednesday to Saturday evenings.
Brocco Kitchen
12.5 km
Elegant Nordic-inspired dining in a charming Edwardian villa, offering fresh, seasonal dishes in Sheffield’s peaceful Brocco Bank neighborhood.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Outside.co.uk
4.1 km
Your essential outdoor clothing and equipment shop in Hathersage, offering expert gear and a cozy café for Peak District adventurers.
Pookie - Wookie Ltd
4.3 km
Handcrafted artisan ceramics by a mother-daughter duo in the scenic Hope Valley, perfect for unique and meaningful gifts.
The Causeway Shop
6.0 km
Discover unique gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Castleton’s picturesque Hope Valley at The Causeway Shop.
The Original Blue John Craft Shop
6.0 km
Discover unique handcrafted Blue John jewellery and gifts in Castleton’s charming craft shop, celebrating Derbyshire’s rare gemstone heritage.
The Old Barn
6.1 km
A practical outdoor and gift shop in Castleton’s Market Place, perfect for stocking up before exploring the Peak District’s hills and caves.
The Outdoor Shop
6.2 km
Your essential outfitter for quality outdoor gear and clothing in Hope Valley, perfect for Peak District adventures.
Delightful Living
8.5 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of Eyam’s historic craft centre, blending heritage with handcrafted charm.
Antique and Unique
10.3 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
Derbyshire Gift Centre
11.1 km
A charming family-run gift shop and café in Hope Valley offering seasonal treasures and homemade delights in the Peak District.
Gifted
11.9 km
Discover Sheffield's premier spot for unique gifts and artisanal treasures on vibrant Ecclesall Road South—perfect for thoughtful finds.
The Village Store
12.0 km
Discover The Village Store in Sheffield: Your go-to convenience stop for snacks, drinks, and local treats in a cozy atmosphere.
Space 205
12.3 km
Whimsical gifts, decadent chocolates, sparkling jewelry, and expert framing in Sheffield's Crookes—a treasure trove of creative delights awaits.
The Stock Exchange
12.5 km
A compact, curated women's boutique in Hunters Bar offering distinctive clothing and accessories in a friendly neighbourhood setting.
Trove
12.8 km
Uncover Sheffield's creative treasures at Trove, where local artistry and quirky gifts await on Sharrow Vale Road's charming stretch.
Ringinglow Toys and Gifts
12.8 km
Explore the enchanting world of Ringinglow Toys and Gifts, where creativity and fun come together in Sheffield's beautiful Botanical Gardens.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ladybower Inn
1.6 km
A cozy 3-star inn in Hope Valley offering hearty pub meals, friendly hospitality, and scenic access to Ladybower Reservoir and Peak District trails.
Bulls Head, Castleton
6.1 km
Historic pub and cozy inn in Castleton offering traditional British fare, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Peak District.
The Castle
6.1 km
A historic pub in Castleton offering hearty British fare, scenic views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Hope Valley.
The George
6.1 km
Traditional British charm meets cozy comfort in Castleton’s welcoming pub with rooms, great food, and scenic Hope Valley views.
The Barrel Inn
7.0 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The Bull at Foolow
8.3 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
The Rambler Inn
8.4 km
Cozy stone-built pub and inn in Edale, offering hearty fare, local ales, and a warm welcome for Peak District hikers.
The Old Nags Head
8.5 km
Historic 16th-century country pub at the start of the Pennine Way, offering rustic charm, real ales, and hearty fare in Edale’s scenic Peak District.
The Eyre Arms
10.6 km
A charming historic pub in Hope Valley offering hearty Derbyshire fare and warm hospitality in the heart of the Peak District.
The George Inn
10.6 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Red Lion Inn
10.7 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
Star Inn
10.7 km
A classic Peak District pub in Tideswell offering hearty pies, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming village setting.
The Dark Horse Bar
12.0 km
Sheffield's cozy fusion of pub warmth, cocktail flair, and burger bliss on vibrant Ecclesall Road—perfect for craft drinks and casual nights out.
Wildcard Bar and Grill
12.0 km
Sheffield's ultimate sports bar: 40+ screens, giant Jumbotron, epic American grill, shuffleboard, pool, and cocktails in luxury style.
The Edge Bar
12.2 km
Vibrant University of Sheffield bar buzzing with pub grub, craft drinks, pool, darts, quizzes, and live sports in the heart of student residences.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Corporation
14.3 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Fez Sheffield
14.3 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
14.3 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
Dempseys Bar and Club
14.4 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Popworld - Sheffield
14.5 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
The Viper Rooms
14.5 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
Al Ahsa Night Club
14.5 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Night Kitchen
14.6 km
Dive into Sheffield's industrial heartbeat at The Night Kitchen, where former cutlery factory walls pulse with electronic beats until dawn in a raw, inclusive nightlife haven.
Code Sheffield
14.6 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
Great Rocks Social Club
14.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Great Rocks Social Club, a welcoming hub in Peak Dale perfect for socializing and entertainment.
Tank
15.0 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
The Leadmill
15.0 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
Temple Sheffield
15.1 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
Plot 22
15.3 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
Level 2
19.0 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Romantic
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
