Birchen Edge: Iconic Peak District Climbing and Scenic Viewpoint
Birchen Edge: Premier Peak District climbing and scenic moorland views near Bakewell.
Birchen Edge is a renowned gritstone escarpment near Bakewell in the Peak District, celebrated for its outstanding rock climbing routes and breathtaking panoramic views. This natural landmark offers a rugged landscape of cliffs and moorland, attracting climbers and walkers alike. Accessible year-round, Birchen Edge provides a quintessential Peak District experience with dramatic scenery and a sense of wild adventure.
A brief summary to Birchen Edge
- A619, Bakewell, DE45 1PS, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear suitable for rocky and uneven terrain, especially if planning to climb or hike along the edge.
- Check weather conditions before visiting, as the exposed moorland can be windy and wet.
- Bring climbing gear if you intend to climb; many routes range from beginner to expert levels.
- Visit nearby Baslow or Bakewell for food, accommodation, and local cultural experiences.
- Respect the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles and sticking to established paths.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Bakewell to Birchen Edge takes about 10 to 15 minutes via the A619. Limited roadside parking is available near the edge, but spaces can fill quickly during peak times. No parking fees apply.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Bakewell and Baslow with stops near Birchen Edge. The journey takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Buses run less frequently on weekends and holidays. Tickets cost around £3 to £5.
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Walking
From Baslow village center, a scenic 45-minute walk along well-marked trails leads to Birchen Edge. The terrain is moderately uneven, suitable for most walkers with reasonable fitness. Wear appropriate footwear.
Birchen Edge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Birchen Edge
Geological Majesty and Natural Setting
Birchen Edge is a striking gritstone escarpment that forms part of the southern Peak District’s dramatic landscape. Its rugged cliffs rise prominently above the surrounding moorland, offering sweeping vistas across the Derbyshire countryside. The edge’s natural gritstone rock is prized by climbers for its texture and challenge, making it a focal point for outdoor enthusiasts. The area’s open moorland setting provides a wild, windswept atmosphere that changes with the seasons, from vibrant heather blooms in summer to stark, snow-dusted expanses in winter.A Hub for Rock Climbing Excellence
Known as one of the premier climbing destinations in the Peak District, Birchen Edge boasts a variety of routes catering to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers. Its vertical faces and cracks offer technical challenges that have attracted climbers for decades. The edge’s accessibility from nearby towns like Bakewell and Baslow makes it a popular day trip for those seeking both adrenaline and natural beauty. The climbing community values Birchen Edge not only for its sport but also for its historical significance in British rock climbing.Walking and Scenic Exploration
Beyond climbing, Birchen Edge is a favored spot for walkers and nature lovers. Trails along the edge provide stunning panoramic views of the Peak District’s rolling hills, valleys, and distant landmarks such as Chatsworth House. The surrounding moorland invites exploration with its rich wildlife and seasonal flora. The area’s tranquility and open skies make it ideal for photography, picnics, and quiet reflection, especially during sunrise or sunset when the landscape is bathed in golden light.Nearby Amenities and Accommodation
Close to Birchen Edge, visitors can find charming accommodations such as the luxury dog-friendly Robin Hood Farm B&B in Baslow, offering direct moorland access and comfortable facilities. The nearby towns of Bakewell and Baslow provide a range of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences, complementing the outdoor adventure. The region’s hospitality is well-suited to families, climbers, and walkers, with many local businesses catering to visitors’ needs.Seasonal Appeal and Visitor Experience
Birchen Edge is accessible year-round, with each season offering a unique perspective on the landscape. Spring brings fresh greenery and birdlife, summer offers long daylight hours for extended climbing and walking, autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and winter provides dramatic, snow-capped vistas. The site’s open-air environment means visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions, but the rewards are spectacular views and a deep connection to the natural heritage of the Peak District.Conservation and Outdoor Ethics
As part of the Peak District National Park, Birchen Edge is protected to preserve its natural beauty and ecological value. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize impact, respecting wildlife habitats and maintaining the integrity of climbing routes. The area’s sustainable management ensures that Birchen Edge remains a pristine destination for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Baslow Edge
2.5 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Peak District National Park Authority
6.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Carl Wark
8.7 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Bamford Edge
14.0 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Lost & Found Sheffield
14.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Endcliffe Campus
14.3 km
A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Heights of Abraham
14.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Heights of Abraham, a mountain cable car attraction in the Peak District offering stunning views, engaging history, and delightful outdoor experiences.
Bear pit
14.4 km
Victorian heritage meets natural history at Sheffield's finest surviving bear pit, a Grade II listed landmark within beloved botanical gardens.
Rose Garden
14.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Sheffield's Rose Garden, a lush oasis of vibrant blooms and serene pathways perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Botanical Gardens Fountain
14.5 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of the Botanical Gardens Fountain in Sheffield, a perfect escape for nature lovers and tourists seeking peace.
Botanical Gardens
14.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Sheffield's Botanical Gardens, featuring diverse plant life, historic glasshouses, and picturesque landscapes, perfect for relaxation.
The Glass Pavilions
14.5 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of The Glass Pavilions in Sheffield, a botanical paradise full of vibrant plant life and tranquil escapes.
Marnock Garden
14.6 km
Explore Marnock Garden in Sheffield, a serene retreat filled with vibrant flora, perfect for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
Rock Garden
14.6 km
Explore the enchanting Rock Garden in Sheffield, a serene urban oasis filled with beautiful landscapes and vibrant plant life.
Friesday Belgian Fries
14.6 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gardom's Edge
0.8 km
A serene gritstone edge with ancient stone circles, panoramic valley views, and blissful solitude.
Eagle Stone
1.9 km
Discover the rugged beauty and ancient legends of Eagle Stone, a towering gritstone landmark with panoramic views on Baslow Edge.
Curbar Edge
2.7 km
Gritstone escarpment offering world-class climbing, panoramic Peak District views, and accessible moorland walks.
Chatsworth House
3.3 km
Explore the grandeur, gardens, and festive charm of Chatsworth House, a historic estate nestled in England’s Peak District.
Hob Hurst's House
3.8 km
Explore the rare rectangular Bronze Age barrow atop Beeley Moor, where ancient history meets sweeping Peak District moorland views.
Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop
4.2 km
Award-winning farm shop offering fresh estate-reared produce, artisanal goods, and a seasonal café experience with stunning Chatsworth views.
Froggatt Edge
4.6 km
Dramatic gritstone escarpment with sweeping moorland views, classic climbs, and rich Peak District heritage in Derbyshire.
Riley Graves
6.1 km
Explore Riley Graves, a historical gem in Hope Valley, where nature and history intertwine to create an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
National Trust - Padley Gorge
6.7 km
Waterfall-carved woodland ravine where ancient forest meets cascading streams in the heart of the Peak District.
Mompesson's Well
7.1 km
Historic boundary well where Eyam villagers left disinfected coins to contain the 1665 plague, symbolizing sacrifice and resilience in Derbyshire’s Peak District.
Dotique Peak Village
7.1 km
Relaxed shopping, seasonal dining, and nature experiences in the scenic Peak District village of Rowsley.
Peak Village
7.2 km
Discover Peak Village, a charming shopping and dining retreat nestled in the scenic heart of the Peak District with nature, artisan shops, and year-round events.
Bakewell Bridge
7.3 km
Explore Bakewell Bridge: A Historic Gem in the Heart of Derbyshire, Perfect for Scenic Strolls and Cultural Discoveries.
Eyam Museum
7.4 km
Discover Eyam Museum, where the story of a village’s brave self-quarantine during the 1665 plague comes vividly to life in the heart of the Peak District.
Bakewell
7.4 km
Historic market town famed for its Bakewell tart, scenic riverside walks, and access to grand Peak District estates.
Essential places to dine
The Prince of Wales Baslow
2.7 km
A sophisticated country pub in Baslow offering seasonal British cuisine, fine wines, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Peak District.
Fischer's Baslow Hall
2.8 km
Elegant Edwardian manor with refined British dining, charming gardens, and luxurious accommodation in the heart of the Peak District.
The Eating House
3.7 km
A cozy café nestled in Derbyshire Craft Centre offering fresh, inclusive menus and a warm community atmosphere in Hope Valley.
The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley
4.3 km
A historic Peak District inn blending rustic charm, elegant rooms, and fresh local cuisine near Chatsworth Estate.
The Tickled Trout
6.3 km
A charming British gastro pub in Barlow offering exquisite trout dishes, warm hospitality, and a perfect blend of rustic and modern dining.
The Peacock At Barlow
6.8 km
Discover The Peacock At Barlow - A scenic pub offering delicious breakfasts and stunning views over Low Peak District.
The Woodyard
7.3 km
Historic marble works turned vibrant restaurant with fresh homemade food and a scenic riverside beer garden in the heart of Bakewell.
Restaurant Lovage by Lee Smith
7.4 km
Innovative modern English cuisine with Michelin-starred finesse in a cozy Bakewell setting, blending local heritage with contemporary elegance.
The Peacock at Rowsley
7.4 km
Historic riverside inn offering refined rooms, acclaimed dining, and exclusive fishing on Derbyshire’s scenic Haddon Estate.
Piedaniel's
7.5 km
A charming family-run French restaurant in Bakewell offering refined cuisine, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service for memorable dining experiences.
The Manners, Bakewell
7.6 km
Traditional Robinsons pub in Bakewell serving excellent local ales and renowned pub food, with dog-friendly rooms and a spacious beer garden.
White Lion
8.0 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering hearty British fare, warm welcomes, and a cozy village atmosphere in Great Longstone.
The Crispin
8.1 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Great Longstone offering hearty British fare and local ales in the heart of the Peak District.
Riverside House Hotel
9.1 km
A 5-star riverside retreat blending historic charm with Michelin-starred dining in the heart of the Peak District.
The Orangery Restaurant
10.8 km
Refined British dining in a historic setting within Audley St Elphin’s Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil gardens near the Peak District.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Derbyshire Gift Centre
3.7 km
A charming family-run gift shop and café in Hope Valley offering seasonal treasures and homemade delights in the Peak District.
The Works
7.2 km
Affordable arts, crafts, books, and toys in the vibrant Peak Village outlet near Matlock.
Delightful Living
7.2 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of Eyam’s historic craft centre, blending heritage with handcrafted charm.
The British Emporium
7.4 km
Discover a refined collection of authentic British-made gifts and homewares in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
Mini Chic- clothing, gifts, and accessories for children and babies
7.5 km
Charming boutique offering stylish children’s clothing, gifts, and accessories in the heart of Bakewell’s historic town centre.
Perfect Gifts Bakewell
7.5 km
Discover unique local gifts and heartfelt treasures in the cozy charm of Perfect Gifts Bakewell, your go-to shop for thoughtful souvenirs.
Edge of the World
7.6 km
Boutique clothing and accessories shop in Bakewell offering quality fashion with a welcoming atmosphere and expert service.
The Derbyshire Emporium
7.6 km
Local artisan gifts and homemade refreshments in the heart of Bakewell's charming town centre.
Bon Voyage Bakewell
7.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Bon Voyage Bakewell, nestled in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
Pookie - Wookie Ltd
9.7 km
Handcrafted artisan ceramics by a mother-daughter duo in the scenic Hope Valley, perfect for unique and meaningful gifts.
Outside.co.uk
9.9 km
Your essential outdoor clothing and equipment shop in Hathersage, offering expert gear and a cozy café for Peak District adventurers.
Eclectic Delights of Serendipity
10.5 km
Discover Chesterfield’s quirky gift shop offering unique homewares, artisan crafts, and friendly service in a vibrant High Street setting.
Shop Indie
10.7 km
Quirky independent gifts from over 250 makers across the UK, curated with care in Chesterfield.
Off The Rails Boutique
11.7 km
Affordable, stylish fashion with a personal touch in the heart of Woodseats, Sheffield’s welcoming family-run boutique.
Bella Figura
12.3 km
Matlock’s bespoke bridal and vintage boutique offering personalized wedding dresses and expert alterations with a vintage charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Eyre Arms
4.4 km
A charming historic pub in Hope Valley offering hearty Derbyshire fare and warm hospitality in the heart of the Peak District.
Castle
7.4 km
A classic Greene King pub in Bakewell serving hearty British fare in a warm, historic setting near the Peak District.
Wheatsheaf Pub and Pantry
7.4 km
Cozy Bakewell pub blending traditional charm with modern pantry dining, serving generous portions in a warm, dog- and child-friendly setting.
The Packhorse Inn
8.9 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
The Barrel Inn
9.3 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The Flying Childers Inn
9.4 km
A cozy, dog-friendly country pub in Stanton in Peak offering fresh, mostly vegan fare and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Peak District.
The Bull at Foolow
9.6 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
Red Lion Inn
11.8 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
The Thorn Tree Inn
12.2 km
A traditional Matlock pub offering hearty homemade food, excellent ales, and stunning views over the Derbyshire Dales and Riber Castle.
The Newsroom
12.5 km
A cozy micro pub in Matlock offering an excellent selection of local craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere for all beer lovers.
The Tipsy Toad
12.7 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Matlock with funky vibes, great drinks, and friendly staff, open late for memorable nights out.
The George Inn
12.9 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Twenty Ten
12.9 km
A rustic and lively bar in Matlock, offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Star Inn
13.0 km
A classic Peak District pub in Tideswell offering hearty pies, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming village setting.
Monk Bar
13.1 km
Monk Bar Matlock: Stylish cocktails, vibrant nights, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Derbyshire.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Natural
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- 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
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
