Some of the best views in the Peaks

stanage edge walk

Last updated: February 2023

Stanage Edge Walk : Discovering the Breathtaking Beauty of England’s Peak District

The Highlights of the Stanage Edge Walk: Must-See Points of Interest Along the Trail

Ah, the Stanage Edge Walk! It’s a real gem for walks around Hathersage, nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Picture this: you start off in the charming Hathersage village, with its quaint cottages and friendly locals.

As you make your way along the top, one of the first must-see points of interest is none other than Robin Hood’s Cave. Legend has it that this was a hiding spot for the famous outlaw himself – talk about stepping into history!

But wait, there’s more! You’ll reach the majestic High Neb summit as you continue your trek. The views from up there are simply breathtaking. You’ll be treated to panoramic vistas over Hope Valley that will make you feel like you’re on top of the world.

Here’s a fun fact for all you literature enthusiasts: did you know that Stanage Edge has been featured in both film and literature? That’s right! The Pride and Prejudice film adaptation used this stunning location as a backdrop for some memorable scenes.
And if that wasn’t enough literary connection for you, Charlotte Brontë found inspiration from Stanage Edge when writing her beloved novel Jane Eyre.

So, lace up your walking shoes and get ready to experience nature at its finest. The Stanage Edge Walk from Hathresage promises unforgettable sights and a touch of literary magic. Trust me, it’s an adventure worth embarking on!

Stanage Edge walk Route

Stanage Edge walk map

Getting to hathersage stanage edge walk

Visiting by Car

If you’re driving, Hathersage is located just off the A6187, which connects the village to Sheffield and Manchester.

Car Parks

The starting Car Park is at Oddfellows Road Car Park Postcode: S32 1DU
If the Car Park is busy, you might get lucky on School Lane (S32 1BZ) or The Dale (S32 1DU).

Two Stanage edge car parks run along the road beneath Stanage Edge – Hooks Carr Car Park and Hollin Bank Car Park.

Car park charges can be found Derbyshire Dales District Council website.

The Peak District National Park boasts a comprehensive public transportation system, allowing visitors to explore the region without a car.

Getting to the Peak District couldn’t be easier by train or bus, and regular services link many of the area’s most popular destinations. And in the summer months, you can try out the new hop on, hop off Hope Valley Explorer

Visiting by Bus

Several bus services are available to reach most areas of the Peak District. While some services run daily and hourly, others may have a lower frequency or operate only on weekends and holidays.

The bus map displays most of the routes within the region. In addition, the Peak District National Park have compiled a list of bus routes that offer an eco-friendly way of accessing the numerous attractions, towns, and villages. You can also view timetables for bus services not listed on Peak District National Park website.

Visiting by Train

The Peaks all have regular intercity rail services from destinations across the country. From these cities, it’s easy to make onward journeys into the Peak District by train.. You can catch:

The Hope Valley Line between Manchester and Sheffield (Northern Railway) gives direct access to spectacular Peak District scenery, with stations at Grindleford, Hathersage, Bamford, Hope and Edale.
To the south is the Derwent Valley Line from Derby to Matlock (East Midlands Railway), from where regular bus services will take you to picturesque villages and dales in the White Peak, including the market town of Bakewell.
To the west is the Manchester to Glossop line (Northern Railway). Glossop has the Dark Peak moorlands grandeur of Bleaklow and Kinder Scout nearby; from Padfield station one can set off on the Longdendale Trail.
Also to the west is the Manchester to Buxton line (Northern Railway). From Buxton regular bus services will take you to villages and dales in the White Peak, or to explore the varied scenery of the Staffordshire Moorlands.
To the north is the Manchester to Huddersfield line (TransPennine Express), stopping on the way at Greenfield and Marsden for access to Dove Stones and the Wessenden Moors.

Train times and fares

Cafes

Pubs

Stanage Edge / Hathersage Accommodation

Why not bag yourself a bargain?

Booking.com

How to Navigate the Stanage Edge circular walk

We are fortunate in the Peak District that most of our footpaths and bridleways are well-maintained and well-signposted, however, I recommend an Ordnance Survey Map (and Compass) when walking in the Peak District.

Phone Apps aren’t an alternative to a paper map; it’s a convenient tools alongside a map. Technology fails, batteries run out, and relying on a phone’s GPS for navigation can be helpful but unreliable.

If you are unfamiliar with map reading, I have a few options here for getting up to speed quickly. If you want to use a phone app alongside a map, I recommend a small, lightweight charging bank to keep your phone fully charged.

Depending on your skills and convenience, here are a few navigational options.

Option 1. What3Words

The route has been divided into waypoints, each represented by a unique three-letter word. This method works best in areas with clearly marked footpaths and bridleways. It provides a quick and easy way to determine the direction to take when faced with multiple path options

W3W divided the world into 3-metre squares, giving each square a unique combination of three words. It’s the easiest way to find and share
your exact location and navigating while walking towards a particular landmark, destination or waypoint.

Option 2. OS Maps App

I’ve been hiking for more than 20 years, and back in the day, we had paper maps. But now, technology has come a long way, and you can download a map using an app straight to your phone.

Over the years, I’ve tried several apps, but my go-to app is OS Maps.

I really do recommend subscribing to access the full range of features and more detailed maps. The Premium Subscription (£28.99) is a no-brainer if you are a keen walker. However, if you are on holiday in the Peaks, then the Monthly Subscription (£4.99) might be best.

How to use OS Maps
This video will take you through using OS Maps to find routes, plan your own, print them off and much more. Click Here

Important: Download the Offline Map before starting.

Regardless of which option you choose, you will need an OS paper map. Technology fails, batteries run out, and relying on a phone’s GPS for navigation can be helpful but unreliable.

Map of The Peak District – Dark Peak Area

Kinder Scout, Bleaklow, Black Hill & Ladybower Reservoir
OS Explorer Map OL 01 – OL1 1:25 000

Buy OS Explorer Maps direct from Ordnance Survey.

Only try these walks with a decent pair of walking boots and a water bottle in hand as a bare minimum.

You don’t have to be a professional hiker to enjoy the peaks; plan ahead, show some respect, leave without a trace and Have Fun!

PLEASE NOTE: The walking routes outlined on Outhiking.co.uk are not without risk and are taken at the reader’s responsibility. It is essential that walkers take into account their physical fitness level and equip themselves with appropriate footwear and clothing, as well as food and drink. It is also advisable to take the relevant Ordnance Survey map with you if you get lost and leave the area covered by our maps. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the route directions, Outhiking.co.uk / Nupush Ltd cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for changes in the details given. Furthermore, Nupush Ltd accepts no responsibility for any injuries or accidents that occur whilst following this walk.