Edale Cross: Historic Boundary Marker and Gateway to the Peak District
Edale Cross stands as a historic medieval boundary marker atop Jacob’s Ladder, a gateway to the wild beauty and heritage of the Peak District.
Edale Cross is a medieval wayside cross located near Edale village in the High Peak area of Derbyshire, England. Positioned at the top of Jacob’s Ladder, it marks the historic boundary between three local wards within the former royal Forest of High Peak. This ancient monument is a significant landmark for walkers on the Pennine Way, offering rugged landscape views and a connection to centuries of local history and rural heritage.
A brief summary to Edale Cross
- High Peak, SK22 2LL, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- 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 for the steep climb up Jacob’s Ladder to Edale Cross, as the path is stone-paved but can be slippery in wet conditions.
- Visit in clear weather to fully appreciate the panoramic views of the Vale of Edale and surrounding moorlands from the cross.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Pennine Way, starting from Edale village, to experience the full historic trail.
- Respect the natural environment and historic structures by staying on marked paths and avoiding disturbance to wildlife.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take the Hope Valley Line train to Edale railway station, which runs hourly from Sheffield and Manchester Piccadilly. The journey typically takes 40–60 minutes from Sheffield and 50–70 minutes from Manchester. The station is a short walk from Edale village and local trails. Tickets cost approximately £8–£15 one-way.
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Car
Drive to Edale village via the A625 and A6187 from Sheffield or the A6 from Manchester, with a journey time of about 40–60 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is available at the Edale pay and display car park (postcode S33 7ZL) for around £5–£8 per day. Note that parking near Jacob’s Ladder is limited.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Edale to nearby towns such as Hope and Glossop, with journeys taking 30–50 minutes depending on the route. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance. Tickets cost around £3–£6.
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Walking
From Edale village center, the walk to Edale Cross via Jacob’s Ladder is approximately 2.5 miles (4 km) and takes about 1.5–2 hours. The path is steep and stone-paved, suitable for fit walkers with good footwear.
Edale Cross location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Edale Cross
Historic Significance and Origins
Edale Cross stands as a medieval wayside cross with origins dating back to the Middle Ages. It was historically used to mark the boundary between three wards of the royal Forest of High Peak: Campana, Hopedale, and Longdendale. The exact date of the cross’s original erection is unknown, but it has been a significant local landmark for centuries. In 1810, local farmers rediscovered and repositioned the cross after finding it buried in nearby peat, carving their initials on it to commemorate the event. Today, it is a Scheduled Monument, protected for its cultural and historic importance.Location and Landscape Setting
Situated at the summit of Jacob’s Ladder, a steep stone staircase path ascending from the River Noe, Edale Cross occupies a commanding position amid the wild moorlands of the Peak District. The cross overlooks the Vale of Edale and is surrounded by rugged hills and cloughs, including the Kinder Scout plateau to the north—the highest point in Derbyshire. The landscape here is a blend of natural beauty and pastoral charm, with the ancient packhorse bridge crossing the River Noe nearby, adding to the historic atmosphere.Jacob’s Ladder and the Pennine Way Connection
Jacob’s Ladder is a historic bridleway named after an 18th-century local farmer, Jacob Marshall, who is said to have cut steps into the steep hillside to ease access to his farmland. The stone steps were modernized in 1987 to improve accessibility for walkers. This route forms part of the Pennine Way, Britain’s first National Trail, which officially starts at Edale village. Edale Cross marks a key waypoint on this iconic long-distance trail stretching 268 miles to the Scottish Borders, making it a pilgrimage site for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts.Cultural and Natural Heritage
The area around Edale Cross is rich in cultural heritage and natural interest. The medieval packhorse bridge near the base of Jacob’s Ladder is Grade II listed and was part of an important trade route used for transporting goods such as salt, cheese, coal, and lead. The surrounding moorland is part of the Kinder Scout Site of Special Scientific Interest and National Nature Reserve, recognized for its unique geology and wildlife habitats. The cross itself symbolizes the enduring relationship between local communities and the landscape.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visiting Edale Cross offers a blend of history, nature, and scenic beauty. The rugged setting provides a tranquil yet invigorating atmosphere, ideal for walkers, photographers, and history enthusiasts. The site’s remote and wild character invites reflection on the centuries of human activity and natural processes that have shaped this part of the Peak District. The nearby village of Edale provides amenities and access, making the cross a rewarding destination or waypoint on longer hikes.Preservation and Accessibility
Edale Cross is well-preserved as a Scheduled Monument, with ongoing efforts to maintain its structure and the surrounding environment. The stone steps of Jacob’s Ladder offer a challenging but manageable ascent, and the path is maintained by the National Trust. Access is facilitated by nearby public transport links to Edale village and parking options at Barber Booth. Visitors are encouraged to respect the site’s heritage and natural setting by following local guidelines and keeping to designated paths.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bamford Edge
13.0 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
White Nancy
16.4 km
Historic hilltop folly offering sweeping Cheshire Plain views and a symbol of Bollington’s heritage and community spirit.
Carl Wark
18.8 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
21.6 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
21.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Eagle Stone
22.2 km
A dramatic gritstone outcrop on Baslow Edge, offering sweeping Peak District views and a touch of ancient legend.
National Trust - Hare Hill
22.2 km
Explore Hare Hill, a captivating National Trust garden in Cheshire, where tranquility meets stunning natural beauty in every season.
Bakewell Old House Museum
22.3 km
Discover Bakewell's vibrant history at the Old House Museum, showcasing exhibits that bring the town's heritage to life in a charming setting.
Lud's Church
22.3 km
Discover Lud's Church, a stunning natural chasm in the Peak District, perfect for hiking and immersing in nature's beauty.
Bakewell Bridge
22.5 km
A stunning 14th-century stone bridge over the River Wye, Bakewell Bridge is a historic and scenic landmark at the heart of Derbyshire’s Peak District.
Forge Dam Park
22.6 km
Forge Dam Park - A peaceful retreat in Sheffield, offering scenic views, serene walks, and a delightful café amidst nature's beauty.
The Monastery Manchester
22.7 km
Explore the enchanting Monastery Manchester, a heritage gem offering stunning architecture, serene gardens, and a glimpse into the city's rich history.
Clayton Hall
23.2 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Clayton Hall, a hidden gem in Manchester's Clayton Park, perfect for history lovers and families alike.
National Trust - Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside
23.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside, a nature reserve rich in scenic views, outdoor adventures, and local history.
Ashburne Tree Man
23.5 km
Explore the enchanting Ashburne Tree Man in Fallowfield, Manchester, a whimsical landmark that celebrates creativity and artistic spirit in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jacob's Ladder
1.0 km
Steep stone steps leading to Kinder Scout’s wild moorlands, Jacob's Ladder is a Peak District classic for adventurous walkers.
Brown Knoll
1.2 km
A peaceful moorland summit near Edale offering gentle walks and sweeping views across the Peak District’s Hope Valley.
Kinder Scout
1.7 km
Explore Kinder Scout, the Peak District’s highest moorland plateau, famed for dramatic cliffs, the tallest waterfall, and panoramic views.
Kinder Downfall
2.9 km
Peak District's tallest waterfall, famous for its reversed-flow effect during high winds and dramatic moorland setting.
Twenty Trees
3.7 km
A tranquil copse offering panoramic views over Hayfield and the High Peak’s moorlands in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
Edale
4.6 km
Edale, nestled in Hope Valley, is the Peak District’s scenic gateway and starting point of the iconic Pennine Way, offering stunning hiking and rich heritage.
Dark Peak Estate
5.2 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.
Mam Tor
5.6 km
Discover Mam Tor, the iconic 'Mother Hill' of the Peak District, offering ancient history, dramatic landslips, and panoramic views over Hope Valley.
National Trust - Dark Peak
5.7 km
Explore the wild, windswept moorlands and iconic gritstone edges of the Peak District’s Dark Peak, a haven for nature and history lovers.
Blue John Cavern
6.2 km
Discover Britain’s rare Blue John stone in Castleton’s spectacular limestone caves, where history and geology intertwine beneath the Peak District.
Snake Woodland- Forestry England
6.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and peaceful trails of Snake Woodland, a lush forest retreat nestled in the heart of Hope Valley’s Peak District.
Eccles Pike
6.4 km
Pink-hued gritstone summit with 360-degree Peak District views and historic toposcope.
Eldon Hole
6.5 km
A legendary 55-metre pothole steeped in geology, folklore, and Peak District heritage.
Winnats Pass
6.5 km
Experience the breathtaking limestone gorge of Winnats Pass, a scenic and historic route through the heart of Hope Valley’s Peak District.
Treak Cliff Cavern
6.6 km
Explore a working Blue John stone mine with stunning geological formations and rare minerals in the Peak District.
Essential places to dine
The Lamb Inn
3.3 km
Historic 18th-century pub in Chinley offering hearty British fare, real ales, and cozy en-suite rooms near Peak District attractions.
The Pack Horse Hayfield
4.1 km
A Michelin-recommended gastropub in Hayfield serving seasonal British cuisine and local ales in a warm, welcoming Peak District setting.
Old Hall Inn
5.6 km
A charming Georgian inn in the Peak District offering refined pub dining, cozy rooms, and a warm welcome amid stunning countryside.
The Paper Mill Inn
5.6 km
Charming historic country pub and inn in Whitehough, Peak District, renowned for real ales, seasonal food, and warm local hospitality.
The Hanging Gate
7.1 km
Family-run pub and restaurant in the scenic High Peak offering hearty meals, event hosting, and outside catering in Chapel-en-le-Frith.
The Little Mill @ Rowarth
7.2 km
A welcoming country inn in Rowarth offering cozy rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and scenic Peak District charm.
1530 The Restaurant
7.9 km
Charming Italian restaurant in Castleton offering fresh homemade dishes and vegan options in a cozy historic setting within the Peak District.
Ye Olde Nags Head
8.0 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Castleton offering cozy pub vibes, hearty British fare, and a lively community atmosphere.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn
8.1 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.
Derbyshire Eats
12.5 km
Experience refined dining and bespoke catering excellence in the charming village of Tideswell at Derbyshire Eats.
The Anchor Inn
12.8 km
A classic Peak District pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tideswell.
The Merchant's Yard
12.8 km
A charming boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant in Tideswell, blending historic character with seasonal Peak District cuisine.
The Horse & Jockey
13.0 km
A cozy, traditional village pub and B&B in Tideswell offering hearty meals, warm fires, and comfortable rooms in the Peak District.
Golden Hind
16.1 km
A classic Stockport pub serving hearty British fare with friendly service in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Lime Tree Restaurant and Wine Bar
16.2 km
Refined British dining with seasonal menus and expertly paired wines in the charming heart of Bollington.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bluebird’s Nest UK
5.7 km
Handpicked gifts and treasures in the heart of the Peak District's historic market town.
The Outdoor Shop
7.8 km
Your essential outfitter for quality outdoor gear and clothing in Hope Valley, perfect for Peak District adventures.
The Original Blue John Craft Shop
7.9 km
Discover unique handcrafted Blue John jewellery and gifts in Castleton’s charming craft shop, celebrating Derbyshire’s rare gemstone heritage.
The Causeway Shop
8.0 km
Discover unique gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Castleton’s picturesque Hope Valley at The Causeway Shop.
The Old Barn
8.0 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.
Ivie & luxe
8.2 km
A stylish boutique in Whaley Bridge offering unique clothing, gifts, and homewares with a local touch – perfect for thoughtful souvenirs and personal treats.
The Springs Shopping Centre
12.6 km
Buxton's central shopping hub with 450 parking spaces and popular high street chains.
Decor Boutique
12.6 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares in Buxton’s charming Decor Boutique, nestled in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
Atticusboo
12.6 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at Atticusboo, Buxton’s charming independent boutique in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
Antique and Unique
12.7 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
Fiveways Country Store
12.9 km
Charming family-owned shop in Buxton’s Market Place offering unique gifts and local artisan products in the heart of the Peak District.
Jo Royle Outdoor
13.0 km
Discover quality outdoor gear and expert advice at Jo Royle Outdoor, Buxton’s beloved independent boutique for adventurers.
AWAKEN - Crystal & Spiritual Shop
13.1 km
Discover exquisite crystals and handcrafted spiritual jewellery at AWAKEN, Buxton’s premier metaphysical supply shop blending artistry with energy.
Outside.co.uk
16.0 km
Your essential outdoor clothing and equipment shop in Hathersage, offering expert gear and a cozy café for Peak District adventurers.
Pookie - Wookie Ltd
16.0 km
Handcrafted artisan ceramics by a mother-daughter duo in the scenic Hope Valley, perfect for unique and meaningful gifts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Nags Head
4.5 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 Rambler Inn
4.6 km
Cozy stone-built pub and inn in Edale, offering hearty fare, local ales, and a warm welcome for Peak District hikers.
Bulls Head, Castleton
7.9 km
Historic pub and cozy inn in Castleton offering traditional British fare, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Peak District.
The Castle
7.9 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
7.9 km
Traditional British charm meets cozy comfort in Castleton’s welcoming pub with rooms, great food, and scenic Hope Valley views.
San Pedro (By Santiago)
12.6 km
A vibrant Spanish wine bar and cocktail lounge in Buxton offering authentic tapas, fine wines, and a lively atmosphere.
Buxton Brewery Tap House & Cellar Bar
12.7 km
Lively flagship brewery bar in Buxton’s historic heart, serving fresh local beers and seasonal dishes in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Star Inn
12.7 km
A classic Peak District pub in Tideswell offering hearty pies, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming village setting.
Ladybower Inn
12.7 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.
The George Inn
12.8 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Red Lion Inn
13.9 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
Anglers Rest
14.3 km
A cozy riverside pub in Millers Dale offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a tranquil garden in the heart of the Peak District.
The Bull at Foolow
14.7 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
The Barrel Inn
14.8 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The Packhorse Inn
18.2 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Level 2
13.0 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
25.9 km
Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
25.9 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
Club Tropicana
26.1 km
Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.
The Cockatoo Club
26.1 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
Aatma
26.1 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Twenty Twenty Two
26.2 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
Kable
26.2 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Satans Hollow
26.2 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Mint Lounge
26.2 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Funkademia
26.3 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Viva Manchester
26.3 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Bliss Club Manchester
26.6 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Cargo
26.7 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Popworld Manchester
26.7 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
