Lawrencefield Quarry
Dramatic gritstone cliffs and tranquil ponds in the heart of the Peak District's climbing country.
Lawrencefield Quarry is a dramatic gritstone crag nestled in the Hope Valley of the Peak District, renowned for its striking cliff faces and tranquil ponds. This natural amphitheatre of weathered stone attracts climbers, abseilers, and nature enthusiasts seeking adventure or contemplation. Accessible from the nearby Surprise View car park, it offers both challenging rock formations and scenic moorland walks through this historic landscape shaped by centuries of quarrying heritage.
A brief summary to Lawrencefield
- A6187, Hope Valley, S32 1DA, GB
- Duration: 1.5 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
- Arrive early in the day to secure parking at Surprise View car park and enjoy the quarry with fewer visitors. The site is most atmospheric in morning light when shadows accentuate the cliff faces.
- Wear sturdy footwear with good grip; paths around the quarry can be uneven and potentially slippery, especially after rain. The terrain is more challenging than it initially appears.
- Combine your visit with walks to nearby formations like Over Owler Tor or Higger Tor for a fuller exploration of the moorland landscape and its scattered millstones.
- If climbing or abseiling, ensure you have proper equipment and experience, or book with a qualified guide. The rock can be loose in places and weather conditions change rapidly on the exposed moors.
- Visit during clear weather for the best photography and views. Mist and low cloud frequently roll across the moorland, obscuring the cliff faces and reducing visibility.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Parking
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car from Hathersage
From Hathersage town centre, drive north on the A6187 for approximately 2 kilometres toward Grindleford. Surprise View car park is clearly signposted on the right side of the road. Journey time is roughly 5 minutes. Parking costs approximately £1.50 per hour or £3.50 for three hours. The car park has good capacity and accessible facilities including disabled spaces near the entrance.
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Walking from Hathersage
From Hathersage town centre, a scenic moorland walk of approximately 4 kilometres and 45 minutes takes you to Lawrencefield Quarry. The route follows footpaths northward across open moorland, gaining elevation gradually. The terrain is exposed and can be boggy in wet conditions; waterproof boots are essential. Navigation requires a map or GPS as paths are not always obvious on the moor.
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Bus from Hope Valley
Local bus services operate through the Hope Valley, though services are infrequent. Check regional transport schedules for routes serving the A6187 near Surprise View. Journey times vary significantly depending on starting point and service frequency. This option is best suited to those with flexible schedules and local knowledge of timetables.
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Walking from Stanage Edge
If visiting nearby Stanage Edge, a moorland walk of approximately 3 kilometres and 50 minutes connects the two crags across open Peak District terrain. This route offers continuous views and passes through landscape dotted with abandoned millstones. The path is exposed and navigation requires careful attention to landmarks and maps.
Lawrencefield location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lawrencefield
A Landscape Carved by Stone and Time
Lawrencefield Quarry stands as a testament to the Peak District's geological drama and industrial past. The quarry's distinctive gritstone cliffs rise dramatically from the surrounding moorland, their weathered faces revealing layers of sedimentary rock that have attracted both practical quarrymen and adventurous climbers for generations. The site's name reflects its origins as an active extraction site, yet today it has transformed into a destination where natural beauty and human ambition intersect. The quarry's amphitheatre-like formation creates an intimate yet imposing landscape, with vertical rock faces that catch the light differently throughout the day, casting deep shadows across the stone.The Geology Beneath Your Feet
The gritstone that comprises Lawrencefield belongs to the Eastern Gritstone formation, part of the Millstone Grit series that defines much of the Peak District's character. This coarse-grained sandstone formed from ancient river deposits and has proven both durable and desirable—qualities that made it invaluable for millstone production across centuries. The quarry's exposed faces reveal the texture and structure that made these stones perfect for grinding grain, and abandoned millstones scattered across the surrounding moors stand as silent monuments to this heritage. The rock's crystalline structure and natural fracture patterns have made it equally attractive to modern climbers seeking varied and challenging routes.A Haven for Climbers and Adventurers
Lawrencefield Quarry has earned recognition as a significant climbing destination within the Eastern Gritstone area. The crag offers traditional climbing routes that appeal to experienced mountaineers and those seeking to develop their skills on natural rock. Beyond climbing, the quarry serves as a venue for abseiling and rope-based activities, with the vertical drops providing ideal conditions for descending enthusiasts. The combination of accessible terrain and challenging pitches means the site welcomes visitors of varying abilities, from those taking gentle walks around the base to technical climbers tackling the more demanding faces.Tranquil Waters and Moorland Vistas
The ponds that punctuate the quarry landscape add an unexpected serenity to this dramatic setting. These bodies of water, often formed in former extraction areas, create reflective surfaces that mirror the surrounding cliffs and sky. In quieter moments, they offer peaceful spots for contemplation and photography, their still waters contrasting beautifully with the jagged stone above. The moorland surrounding the quarry extends outward in rolling waves of heather and grass, dotted with the aforementioned abandoned millstones that pepper the landscape. Walks from the quarry can extend across this open terrain toward nearby formations like Over Owler Tor and Higger Tor, creating opportunities for longer explorations of this distinctive countryside.Access and the Surprise View Connection
The quarry is most readily accessed via the Surprise View car park, a well-maintained facility that serves as the gateway to this area of the Hope Valley. From the car park, a short walk along gravel paths leads visitors toward the quarry itself. The infrastructure here reflects genuine efforts to make the landscape accessible to a broad range of visitors, with gentle inclines and wide, well-maintained pathways. The car park itself offers more than just parking—it provides a vantage point with panoramic views across the valley, justifying its evocative name and serving as an ideal starting point for exploring the wider area.The Wider Hope Valley Context
Lawrencefield Quarry exists within the broader context of the Hope Valley, a landscape rich with natural and cultural significance. The valley's character is shaped by its geology, its industrial heritage, and its current status as a cherished natural area within the Peak District National Park. Nearby attractions including Stanage Edge, Ladybower Reservoir, and various historic sites create a region where outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and heritage conservation coexist. The quarry represents one facet of a multifaceted landscape that rewards exploration and invites visitors to engage with both the dramatic geology and the human stories embedded within it.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Carl Wark
2.0 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
5.4 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Bamford Edge
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Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
The Endcliffe Campus
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A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Lost & Found Sheffield
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Peak District National Park Authority
10.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Friesday Belgian Fries
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Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
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Winnats Pass
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Arts Tower
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Blue John Cavern
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Devonshire Quarter
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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
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Experience the thrill of teamwork and mystery at Crack The Code Escape Rooms in Sheffield, where every game unlocks an adventure.
Sheffield War Memorial
12.6 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.
National Trust - Dark Peak
12.7 km
Discover the rugged beauty and rich history of the Dark Peak, a national park perfect for adventure and tranquility in the heart of the Peak District.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Padley Gorge
0.8 km
Waterfall-carved woodland ravine where ancient forest meets cascading streams in the heart of the Peak District.
Froggatt Edge
3.4 km
Dramatic gritstone escarpment with sweeping moorland views, classic climbs, and rich Peak District heritage in Derbyshire.
Stepping Stones
3.6 km
A tranquil natural river crossing in Watford offering scenic walks and gentle adventure for all ages.
Mompesson's Well
3.7 km
Historic boundary well where Eyam villagers left disinfected coins to contain the 1665 plague, symbolizing sacrifice and resilience in Derbyshire’s Peak District.
Riley Graves
4.0 km
Explore Riley Graves, a historical gem in Hope Valley, where nature and history intertwine to create an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Eyam Museum
4.5 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.
Curbar Edge
5.1 km
Gritstone escarpment offering world-class climbing, panoramic Peak District views, and accessible moorland walks.
Eagle Stone
6.1 km
Discover the rugged beauty and ancient legends of Eagle Stone, a towering gritstone landmark with panoramic views on Baslow Edge.
Gardom's Edge
6.9 km
A serene gritstone edge with ancient stone circles, panoramic valley views, and blissful solitude.
Ladybower Reservoir
7.4 km
A vast Peak District reservoir famous for its dramatic ‘plugholes’, drowned villages and Dambusters history, surrounded by moorland walks and cycling trails.
Birchen Edge
7.5 km
Birchen Edge: Premier Peak District climbing and scenic moorland views near Bakewell.
Forge Dam Park
7.5 km
A tranquil Sheffield park featuring a historic millpond, family playground, scenic trails, and a welcoming café for nature lovers and families.
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet
8.0 km
Explore Sheffield's industrial soul at this complete 18th-century scythe works powered by the River Sheaf.
Ecclesall Woods
8.1 km
Discover Sheffield’s largest ancient woodland, a tranquil haven of wildlife, history, and scenic trails just minutes from the city centre.
The Blind Bull
8.5 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering seasonal British cuisine, cozy rooms, and warm countryside hospitality in Little Hucklow.
Essential places to dine
The Eating House
5.3 km
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Fischer's Baslow Hall
6.9 km
Elegant Edwardian manor with refined British dining, charming gardens, and luxurious accommodation in the heart of the Peak District.
The Prince of Wales Baslow
7.5 km
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The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley
8.8 km
A historic Peak District inn blending rustic charm, elegant rooms, and fresh local cuisine near Chatsworth Estate.
Rafters Restaurant
9.1 km
Discover Sheffield’s refined modern British dining at Rafters, where rustic charm meets innovative flavors and impeccable service.
Borgo Antica Osteria
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Experience authentic Italian hospitality and cuisine in Sheffield’s warm and welcoming Borgo Antica Osteria.
White Lion
9.4 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering hearty British fare, warm welcomes, and a cozy village atmosphere in Great Longstone.
The Crispin
9.4 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Great Longstone offering hearty British fare and local ales in the heart of the Peak District.
La Luna Restaurant
9.5 km
Authentic Italian flavors and a warm BYO atmosphere await you at La Luna on Sheffield’s vibrant Ecclesall Road.
The Anchor Inn
9.6 km
A classic Peak District pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tideswell.
Urban Choola
9.6 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with a modern twist at Urban Choola, Sheffield’s vibrant dining destination on Ecclesall Road.
Olive
9.8 km
Mediterranean-inspired dining with Italian and Moroccan flair, set in a warm, rustic Sheffield venue with artistic charm and attentive service.
The Tickled Trout
9.8 km
A charming British gastro pub in Barlow offering exquisite trout dishes, warm hospitality, and a perfect blend of rustic and modern dining.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn
10.2 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.
Brocco Kitchen
10.2 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
Pookie - Wookie Ltd
2.4 km
Handcrafted artisan ceramics by a mother-daughter duo in the scenic Hope Valley, perfect for unique and meaningful gifts.
Outside.co.uk
2.5 km
Your essential outdoor clothing and equipment shop in Hathersage, offering expert gear and a cozy café for Peak District adventurers.
Delightful Living
4.7 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of Eyam’s historic craft centre, blending heritage with handcrafted charm.
Derbyshire Gift Centre
5.3 km
A charming family-run gift shop and café in Hope Valley offering seasonal treasures and homemade delights in the Peak District.
Gifted
9.0 km
Discover Sheffield's premier spot for unique gifts and artisanal treasures on vibrant Ecclesall Road South—perfect for thoughtful finds.
Off The Rails Boutique
10.0 km
Affordable, stylish fashion with a personal touch in the heart of Woodseats, Sheffield’s welcoming family-run boutique.
Antique and Unique
10.0 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
The Village Store
10.1 km
Discover The Village Store in Sheffield: Your go-to convenience stop for snacks, drinks, and local treats in a cozy atmosphere.
The Stock Exchange
10.2 km
A compact, curated women's boutique in Hunters Bar offering distinctive clothing and accessories in a friendly neighbourhood setting.
The Causeway Shop
10.3 km
Discover unique gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Castleton’s picturesque Hope Valley at The Causeway Shop.
The Old Barn
10.3 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 Original Blue John Craft Shop
10.3 km
Discover unique handcrafted Blue John jewellery and gifts in Castleton’s charming craft shop, celebrating Derbyshire’s rare gemstone heritage.
Trove
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Uncover Sheffield's creative treasures at Trove, where local artistry and quirky gifts await on Sharrow Vale Road's charming stretch.
The Outdoor Shop
10.5 km
Your essential outfitter for quality outdoor gear and clothing in Hope Valley, perfect for Peak District adventures.
The Famous Sheffield Shop
10.7 km
Discover authentic Sheffield-forged cutlery and gifts at this iconic shop, preserving the city's steelmaking mastery since 1983 amid Ecclesall Road's vibrant charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Eyre Arms
5.1 km
A charming historic pub in Hope Valley offering hearty Derbyshire fare and warm hospitality in the heart of the Peak District.
The Barrel Inn
5.2 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The Bull at Foolow
6.5 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
Ladybower Inn
8.0 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 Dark Horse Bar
9.4 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
9.6 km
Sheffield's ultimate sports bar: 40+ screens, giant Jumbotron, epic American grill, shuffleboard, pool, and cocktails in luxury style.
Red Lion Inn
9.7 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
The Packhorse Inn
10.0 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
The Edge Bar
10.3 km
Vibrant University of Sheffield bar buzzing with pub grub, craft drinks, pool, darts, quizzes, and live sports in the heart of student residences.
The George
10.3 km
Traditional British charm meets cozy comfort in Castleton’s welcoming pub with rooms, great food, and scenic Hope Valley views.
The Harritt wine bar
10.4 km
Cozy Sheffield wine bar with exceptional selections, cheeseboards, and personal service on vibrant Ecclesall Road – ideal for intimate evenings.
The Castle
10.4 km
A historic pub in Castleton offering hearty British fare, scenic views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Hope Valley.
Bulls Head, Castleton
10.4 km
Historic pub and cozy inn in Castleton offering traditional British fare, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Peak District.
The Lescar
10.4 km
Vintage Sheffield pub pouring local ales, serving roasts and comedy in cozy wood-paneled rooms with a sunny beer garden—your Hunters Bar local gem.
The George Inn
10.4 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dempseys Bar and Club
12.1 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.
Corporation
12.2 km
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Fez Sheffield
12.5 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
Code Sheffield
12.5 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.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
12.5 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.
Popworld - Sheffield
12.5 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
12.6 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.
Temple Sheffield
12.6 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
The Leadmill
12.8 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.
Al Ahsa Night Club
12.8 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Night Kitchen
12.9 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.
Tank
13.0 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
Plot 22
13.4 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
Waikiki Beach Bar
16.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Great Rocks Social Club
16.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Great Rocks Social Club, a welcoming hub in Peak Dale perfect for socializing and entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Scenic
- Unique
- Adrenaline-pumping
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Geologic Formations
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
- Physically Demanding
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
