Peak District circular walk: Birchover, Alport, Stanton Moor (9.5 miles)
Details
Discover the stunning landscapes and hidden gems of the Peak District on this circular walk. This route offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, local history, and outdoor adventure, from dramatic rock formations to ancient stone circles, tranquil rivers to historic quarries. Ideal for walkers with a moderate level of fitness, the trail provides scenic views and interesting landmarks, with plenty of opportunities to pause, explore, and soak in the surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a rewarding day out, this walk promises a memorable experience, capped off with a well-earned stop at a charming local pub.
📍 Meeting Location & Time
- Meeting Location: The Druid Inn, Main St, Birchover, Matlock, DE4 2BL
- Meeting Time: 9:50 AM
- Start Time: 10:00 AM
🥾 Walk Overview
- Distance: 9.5 miles (15.3 km)
- Elevation Gain: ~1,000 ft (325 m)
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Route Type: Circular
- Walk Leader: Ben
🐇🐢 Pace & Fitness Requirements
This is an intermediate walk intended for those in good physical condition. You should be comfortable maintaining a steady pace throughout.
Please note that the group may be unable to wait for significantly slower walkers, so it’s important to be prepared.
While you’re welcome to walk at your own pace, be aware that the route may take longer than expected if walking slower than average. If you find the walk too difficult, there are several shortcuts available to help you complete the route. However, if you choose to take a shortcut, you’ll need to navigate independently, as the group leader will continue with the planned full route.
⛰️ Route Highlights
- Rowtor Rocks
- Hermit's Cave and Crucifixion Carving
- Cratcliffe Rocks
- Coalpit Bridge Over the River Lathkill
- Shining Bank Quarry
- River Lathkill
- Nine Ladies Stone Circle
- Stanton Moor Trig Point
- Cork Stone
- The Druid Inn, Birchover (A pub should always be a highlight!)
📲 Route Links
🚆 Public Transport
- Sadly, there is no easy public transport to Birchover.
🌦️ Weather & Clothing
The weather on the hills can be highly variable, windy, and cold.
Please wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip to handle muddy and slippery terrain. Avoid flat trainers or jeans.
Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions:
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Insulating mid-layers
- Waterproof outer layers
If it's sunny, don’t forget your sunglasses.
Useful links for weather forecasts:
🎒 What to Bring
- Sturdy walking boots or shoes with good grip (no flat trainers)
- Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing (avoid jeans)
- Sufficient food and water for the entire day
- Waterproof jacket and warm layers
- Sunglasses
- A comfortable backpack
- Optional: hiking poles, hat, torch (or headlamp), camera, power bank, phone (or watch) with the route downloaded
🐶 Dogs
Fit and friendly dogs are welcome! Please keep them on a lead near livestock.
📢 Notes
This event may be cancelled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe. Updates will be posted in the comments, so please enable email notifications for any changes.
📌 Bookings
- Please only book if you genuinely intend to attend.
- If you reserve a spot but can no longer make it, please cancel your booking or let the organiser know. It only takes a moment to update your booking, and it really helps everyone: the organiser, the walk leader, and your fellow attendees.
⛑️ Disclaimer
You are fully responsible for your own safety, health, fitness, and equipment. The group has no insurance. By RSVPing, you agree to these terms.
📬 Questions?
Feel free to comment below or message the organiser privately.