Great Bamford Edge Walk in the Peak District

Last Updated on February 8, 2024 by Natalia

Standing at a height of 420 metres (1,381 feet), the rocky cliffs of Bamford Edge provide a stunning walk with views of the Peak District. It’s a beautiful place to visit thanks to the unique rock formations, as well as the wonderful views of the nearby Ladybower Reservoir and the rolling hills of the surrounding countryside. Find out everything you need to know about Bamford Edge with this guide to the walk to one of our favourite viewpoints in the Peak District!

Views of the Peak District from Bamford Edge

Where to park for Bamford Edge

There is free parking nearby on New Road, postcode S33 0AD. As you drive along New Road you’ll come to a lay-by where it’s possible to park for free, just a short distance from the trail.

Free Bamford Edge Parking Postcode – S33 0AD.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a longer walk to Bamford Edge then you can park at the Heatherdene Car Park next to the Ladybower Reservoir. From there you can explore the area around the reservoir, and also make your way up to Bamford Edge along New Road to enjoy one of the best views in the Peak District.

Parking at the Heatherdene Car Park costs £4 for the day, and is currently cash only. There are free public toilets at the car park.

Cliff with views over the Peak District

Bamford Edge Walk

The route up starts near the lay-by on New Road, and the walk to the top takes around 10-15 minutes. At the top there is another 5-10 minute walk along the cliff edge, which gives you some brilliant views of the surrounding countryside.

After a short walk along Bamford Edge you will reach a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the Ladybower Reservoir. The interesting rock formations on the cliff edge help make the views more impressive, and make for a great spot for some photos.

It doesn’t take much time to do this circular walk to Bamford Edge, about 20-25 minutes in total, but if you’re stopping to admire the views and taking pictures then you can easily spend an hour or more here. It can get quite windy at the top, so it’s worth bringing a jumper or a coat unless it’s a hot day.

Bamford Edge is a great spot for walking dogs, and is also a lovely spot to visit during sunrise and sunset. To avoid crowds we recommend going early in the day and visiting on a weekday if possible. If you want to enjoy a colourful sky then it’s worth planning your visit for sunrise, as it’s likely to be quieter than at sunset.

If you fancy visiting another viewpoint whilst you’re in the area then you can easily walk from Bamford Edge to Stanage Edge. The circular walk should take around 3-4 hours in total, and it’s a great way to visit 2 of the best views in the Peak District in one day!

As the walk up to the top can be quite steep, we didn’t include here on our list of easy Peak District walks. That being said, it’s not too tough as long as you have the fitness for a somewhat steep uphill walk over the course of 10-15 minutes.

Click here to download AllTrail’s route of the Bamford Edge walk

One of our favourite views in the Peak District was at Chrome Hill make sure to find out more here!

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