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Eagle Stone: Iconic Gritstone Landmark on Baslow Edge

Discover the rugged beauty and ancient legends of Eagle Stone, a towering gritstone landmark with panoramic views on Baslow Edge.

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Eagle Stone is a striking 6-meter high freestanding gritstone rock located on Baslow Edge near Bakewell in the Peak District. This natural monument offers panoramic views over the Derwent Valley and White Peak, making it a popular stop for walkers exploring the scenic moorland. Surrounded by rich local folklore and archaeological features, Eagle Stone stands as a symbol of the area's rugged natural beauty and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Eagle Stone

  • Bakewell, DE45 1AE, GB
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon 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 as paths can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain.
  • Visit during clear weather for the best panoramic views over the Derwent Valley.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along Baslow Edge to explore other rock formations and wildlife.
  • Bring a camera to capture the dramatic landscape and the iconic Eagle Stone itself.
  • Nearby Baslow village offers cafes and pubs for refreshments after your hike.
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Getting There

  • Bus and Walk

    Take the local bus service from Bakewell town center to Baslow village, a 10-15 minute journey. From Baslow, enjoy a 30-40 minute moderate walk along marked footpaths to Eagle Stone. Bus fares typically range from £3 to £5 one way.

  • Car

    Drive from Bakewell to Curbar Gap car park, approximately 10 minutes. Parking is limited and may require a fee of around £3-£5. From the car park, a 10-15 minute walk along Baslow Edge leads directly to Eagle Stone.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Bakewell to Eagle Stone or Curbar Gap takes about 10 minutes. Expect fares around £10-£15. This option is convenient if you prefer a direct and flexible trip without parking concerns.

Eagle Stone location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Eagle Stone

Natural Monument on Baslow Edge

Eagle Stone is a prominent natural gritstone outcrop rising approximately six meters high on Baslow Edge, a limestone escarpment near the market town of Bakewell in Derbyshire’s Peak District National Park. Its imposing presence on the moorland skyline makes it visible from a distance and a favored landmark for hikers and photographers. The stone’s weathered surface and rugged texture reflect the geological history of the White Peak area, shaped over millennia by natural erosion and glacial activity.

Panoramic Views and Surrounding Landscape

From Eagle Stone, visitors are rewarded with sweeping vistas across the Derwent Valley and the surrounding White Peak countryside. The location offers excellent opportunities to observe seasonal deer herds grazing on the moor and to appreciate the patchwork of fields, woodlands, and distant hills. The site’s elevated position also provides striking views of nearby natural features such as Curbar and Baslow Edges, making it a scenic highlight on many local walking routes.

Rich Folklore and Historical Context

Local tradition holds that the Eagle Stone was a test of strength and courage for eligible bachelors, who were expected to climb the rock to prove their worthiness for marriage. Nearby archaeological features include a ruined ring cairn about 170 meters to the east, part of a small cairnfield dating back to prehistoric times. These elements underscore the cultural significance of the site as a place of ancient ritual and community gathering.

Access and Visitor Experience

The Eagle Stone is accessible via well-maintained footpaths from Baslow and Curbar Gap car park, making it suitable for walkers of all skill levels. The paths across Baslow Edge are generally firm and wide, even in wet weather, allowing for comfortable exploration. The open moorland setting creates a tranquil atmosphere, with the sounds of birds and rustling grasses enhancing the natural experience.

Nearby Attractions and Local Highlights

Close to Eagle Stone are other notable landmarks such as the Wellington Monument and the charming village of Baslow. The historic town of Bakewell, famous for its Bakewell Pudding and medieval stone bridge, lies just a few miles away, offering a range of shops, cafes, and cultural sites. For those seeking grander estates, Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall are within easy reach, providing a blend of natural beauty and heritage.

Preservation and Visitor Considerations

As part of the Peak District National Park, Eagle Stone and its surrounding landscape are protected to preserve their natural and cultural value. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by following designated paths and adhering to Leave No Trace principles. The site’s open access and lack of formal opening hours allow for flexible visits year-round, though weather conditions can affect trail safety.

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