Bamford Edge Walk: The Best Short Hike In The Peak District

The views from Bamford Edge are some of the most recognisable and photographed in the entire Peak District National Park. There are many walking route variations to reach the (insta) famous rock overhang at Bamford Edge. But, the good news for those short on time, is that there’s a nice quick route to the top.

In this guide, we’ll tell you about the short walk to Bamford Edge including the best parking spot. We’ll touch upon some alternative circular walk variations, as well as tell you a little about Bamford Edge, how to get there and other walks to do in the Peak District.

What Is Bamford Edge?

Bamford Edge is one of the most scenic spots in the Peaks. Rising above Ladybower Reservoir is a gritstone escarpment and overhang. Gritstone escarpments are well-known in the Peak District, but as you’ll discover, there’s just something about Bamford Edge.

Where Is Bamford Edge?

Bamford Edge sits above the village of Bamford in the Hope Valley of the Derbyshire Peak District. The spectacular rocky overhang is nestled between the equally fantastic Stanage Edge and Derwent Edge, with views over Ladybower Reservoir below it. Feel free to click on the interactive map to check out its location.

How to Get to Bamford Edge in the Peak District

The best way to get to Bamford Edge is to drive there. Given the lay-by location of the parking for this short walk to Bamford Edge, having the freedom of your own vehicle is very beneficial. Below, we’ll take a look at some of the nearest places to travel from. For your convenience, we’ll include the distance and drive time.

• Manchester: 1.25 hours // 30 miles (48km)
• Sheffield: 30 minutes // 12 miles (19km)
• Buxton: 40 minutes // 19 miles (30km)
• Bakewell: 30 minutes // 16 miles (26km)

To find out more about renting a car with Discover Cars, read our Discover Cars review and Discover Cars Insurance review.

Public Transport 

If you don’t have a car and you don’t fancy hiring one, then good news – you can get to Bamford Edge in the Peak District using public transport. Of course, using public transport is much more time-consuming. From Manchester, you’re looking at around a two hour journey. You’ll need to take a local stopping train between Manchester Piccadilly Station and Sheffield Station, alighting at Bamford train station, which is the nearest train station to the walk.

From Bamford Station, take bus #257 to Lydgate at the southern end of the Ladybower Dam. This is where you’ll begin the walk to Bamford Edge.

From Sheffield, you’ll take the same train back towards Manchester Piccadilly and again alight at Bamford, catching the same #257 bus to Lydgate.

You can check up-to-date train services with Trainline and the local bus services here. Also, we recommend using Google Maps to help plan your journey.

​​​​​​​Bamford Edge Parking

For the short walk to Bamford Edge, you’ll park along New Road. The lay-by parking is found a little east of the Bamford Clough turnoff which leads down to Bamford village. The location on Google Maps can be found here.

The Bamford Edge parking postcode on New Road is S33 0AD. Additionally, parking is free, which is always a win in our book. The walk to Bamford Edge begins directly from the lay-by, by heading over the stile.

Parking is somewhat limited for Bamford Edge, with room for perhaps a dozen cars. If you find the above lay-by full, head a little further down New Road to this location, where you’ll find additional lay-by parking and an alternative trailhead.

Bamford Edge Walk Map and Preview

• Trail Type: Out & Back
• Distance: 3km
• Time: 1 hour
• Accumulated elevation gain: 110m
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trailhead: New Road lay-by (53.3520323, -1.6775186)
• Map: Wikiloc

Bamford Edge Short Walk Description

From the lay-by parking on New Road, climb over the stile and follow the dirt trail uphill. The first sections of the trail are the steepest, with the path levelling out the higher up Bamford Moor you climb. As you near the first sections of gritstone rocks, you’ll start to enjoy the views across the Hope Valley and beyond.

The Bamford Edge walk continues along the escarpment edge. The trail then undulates as you traverse further northwards along the track. Just shy of a kilometre into the trail you’ll find the first of the overhanging rocks. The views extend across the Great Ridge and all the way to Mam Tor.

Bamford Edge Lookout

From here, continue further along the Bamford Edge walking track to reach the famous overhang rock, with views out to Ladybower Reservoir. Here, you’ll likely find the spot fairly busy. Dan and I have visited a few times, with our most recent walk to Bamford Edge on a windy Friday at the end of January. Bamford Edge was still fairly busy.

Although the rock lip isn’t as high up as images would have you believe, you should exercise caution when getting on and off of the ledge. Bamford Moor and Edge can be quite exposed and windy, so if you get a little nervous walking out onto the gritstone ledge, you can always go for a good old bum shuffle. Or, not go at all, the views and pictures are just as good set back a little.

Of course, there are many wonderful viewpoints along Bamford Edge on this short walk. Once you’ve had your turn at the Bamford ledge, do explore a little to find your own slice of the escarpment to sit down and enjoy the views, uninterrupted.

Once you’ve soaked in the views from Bamford Edge, simply retrace your steps and head back to the car.

Extended/Alternative Walking Routes

Of course, the short walk to Bamford Edge is by far the easiest way to experience one of the best views of the Peaks. But, surrounding Bamford Edge is a plethora of circular walking routes and natural attractions, many of which can be linked together. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular options for extended Bamford Edge walks.

Bamford Edge Walk From Heatherdene

You can take on a slightly longer 5km circular Bamford Edge walk from Heatherdene Car Park. You’ll first ascend through woodland before traversing the escarpment edge from the north, completing a Bamford Edge loop back to this alternative parking spot.

Follow the trail here.

Bamford Village to Bamford Edge Walk

It’s possible to begin a circular walk to Bamford Edge from the village of Bamford. Simply head north out of the village towards Yorkshire Bridge and past Heatherdene Car Park. You can then ascend onto the edge from Heatherdene (as described above) or continue further north towards Ladybower Reservoir, joining Bamford Edge close to Cutthroat Bridge Car Park. This parking area can also be used to begin the walk to Bamford Edge or across to Derwent Edge.

Follow the trail here.

Stanage Edge & Bamford Edge Circular Walk

Another well-known ‘edge’ in the Hope Valley of the Peak District is Stanage Edge. If you’re up for a slightly longer walk to visit these two excellent natural landmarks on one circular walk, then the Stanage to Bamford Edge trail could be for you.

Beginning from the Dennis Knoll Car Park, the walk initially sweeps around through Bamford Moor along Bamford Edge, where you’ll have wonderful views over Ladybower Reservoir and the River Derwent in the Peak District. The walk eventually swings right, descending into the moorland valley, before again ascending to meet Stanage Edge. Then, simply walk along Stanage Edge, past High Neb, and descend at the stone steps a little before the Stanage Plantation.

At the base, you’ll take a sharp left, almost back on yourself, and walk along the Long Causeway. Follow this back to the car park on the corner of North Lees Road, completing a wonderful Bamford Edge circular walk.

Follow the trail here.

FYI – you could also begin the Stanage Edge and Bamford Edge walk from Hathersage to see another perfect little Peak District village.

Useful Things to Know

Best time to visit Bamford Edge: you can visit Bamford Edge in the Peak District any time of year. But, one of the best times to visit is in late summer, when the purple heather blooms across the hillsides and shrouds the landscape in a beautiful purple haze.

Bamford Edge weather: Bamford Edge can be rather windy as the overhangs and escarpment are quite exposed. Also, the dirt trail to the top can be extremely muddy if there’s been recent rainfall. Although it’s perfectly fine to walk to Bamford Edge in any weather, it’s always good to be prepared. So, we always check the forecast before we head out into the Peaks. You can check the weather here.

Amenities for Bamford Edge: there are no public toilets or places for food and drink on this short walk to Bamford Edge. So, you should head into nearby Bamford village and check out The Anglers Rest and The Wild Kettle Cafe for a bite to eat. Additionally, the nearest public toilets can be found at Heatherdene Car Park and Hollins Bank Car Park at Stanage Edge. Of course, a picnic is always wonderful at Bamford Edge if the weather is good, so consider bringing your own food with you. But, just remember, what goes up with you must come back down. Leave no trace.

Bamford Edge photography: given the popularity of this beautiful Peak District location, you’ll find it can get quite crowded whilst waiting for that perfect ‘insta’ ledge shot. Try arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience. Plus, sunrise and sunset lighting are particularly wonderful over the moor and surrounding Hope Valley. Avoid bank holidays and school holidays too.

FAQs

Below, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding walks to Bamford Edge in the Peak District National Park.

Is Bamford Edge Dog Friendly?

Bamford Moor is privately owned. It’s also a recognised habitat for grouse, so it’s not permitted to take your dog on a walk to Bamford Edge. But, you can walk your pooches around parts of nearby Stanage Edge and Ladybower Reservoir.

How Long Is the Bamford Edge Walk?

It’s 3km long and takes less than an hour to complete the out-and-back trail.

How High Is the Peak District’s Bamford Edge?

Bamford Edge lies at a height of 421 metres above sea level. The short walk covers a little over 100 metres of accumulative elevation gain. So, it’s a short but steep walk.

Can You Drive to Bamford Edge in the Peak District?

Pretty much. By parking at the lay-by on New Road, you’ll only have a short walk to reach the top.

Is Bamford Edge a Difficult Walk?

No. The walk to Bamford Edge is short with a simple trail to follow. The most difficult part is the steep ascent, which shouldn’t be a problem for those with at least a moderate level of fitness. Of course, the extended Bamford Edge circular walk options are more difficult due to the length of the trails and the added elevation gain.

Where to Stay Near Bamford Edge?

Bamford Edge sits high above the splendid Hope Valley in the Peak District. This area is one of the most picturesque and popular places to stay in the Peaks. So, below we’ll detail the best accommodation options in this beautiful part of the Peak District.

Alternatively, if you like to camp, you’ll find North Lees Campsite a wonderful location very close by. Also, the YHA Hathersage is a great hostel option close to Hathersage Station, not too far from Bamford Edge.

Other Walks in the Peak District National Park

We love walking in the Peaks, I mean it’s practically our backyard which is of course something we feel immensely lucky about. Certainly, there are plenty of walks in the Peak District National Park besides Bamford Edge. So, below we’ve compiled a list of just some of our favourites.

• Stanage Edge: rugged and breathtaking beauty awaits on a walk along Stanage Edge.
• Derwent Edge: a quintessential Peak District walk along another gritstone escarpment.
• Mam Tor: one of the most popular walks in the Peak District with views down the Great Ridge. Sunrise is a particularly good time to visit.
• Alport Castles: a hidden gem in the Peak District, the Alport Castles are the result of one of the largest landslips in the UK. And yes, this place looks like a castle ruin.
• The Roaches and Lud’s Church: hike up and around the famous rocky ridge in the south Peaks and add on the fairytale rocky chasm of Lud’s Church.
• Kinder Scout and Downfall: hike to the Peak District’s highest point and enjoy the seasonal waterfall.
• Dovestone Reservoir: discover the epic Trinnacle rock stack in the northern reaches of the Peak District.
• Dovedale to Milldale: a walk through the beautiful Dovedale passes hidden caves, picturesque forest and clifftop trails. Also, don’t forget to check out the Dovedale Stepping Stones!
• Three Shires Head: at the point where three counties meet is a pretty little cascade and swimming hole.
• Birchover & Stanton Moor Circular: discover the prehistoric Nine Ladies Stone Circle on this delightful country walk.
• Thor’s Cave: this impressive natural cavern has fantastic views across the Manifold Valley in the south of the Peak District.
• Chrome Hill: scale the Dragon’s Back!
• Padley Gorge: a deep and narrow valley offers a magical woodland walk.

Hiking Essentials

These are our walking gear essentials for the Bamford Edge walk in the Peak District! You should also pack water, snacks and warm clothing. Consider a picnic too if the weather is good.

To find out more about all of the gear that we use and recommend, read our guides about our favourite hiking gear, travel gear and camera gear. Otherwise, read our comprehensive travel packing checklist.

Bamford Edge Walking Tips

• Trail maps: if you aren’t bothered about using a GPS map for the walks, then consider having access to Maps.me. You’ll find all the route variations available and can happily form your own loops around this fantastic escarpment.
• Bamford Moor Stone Circle: close to Bamford Edge you’ll find a prehistoric stone circle, similar to that on Stanton Moor.
• Explore more of the Peak District: if you want the hassle taken care of when it comes to trip planning, Get Your Guide offers some pretty great tour options for the Peak District National Park.

Save or share this post with your hiking buddies before your next trip to the Peak District National Park!