Easy hikes and walks around Birchover
4.6
(9635)
51,932
hikers
41
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Birchover traverse a landscape characterized by expansive open moorland, distinctive gritstone edges, and ancient woodlands. The area features a network of paths suitable for various ability levels, offering routes across diverse terrain. Hikers can explore prominent gritstone outcrops and historical sites, with many trails leading to elevated viewpoints. The region's geology includes notable formations such as Robin Hood's Stride and Stanton Moor.
Best easy hiking trails around Birchover
- The most popular easy hiking route is Stanton Moor and Nine Ladies loop from Birchover — Peak District National Park, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 24 minutes to complete. This route features the Nine Ladies Stone Circle and views across Stanton Moor.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Stanton Moor & the Nine Ladies Stone Circle loop from Birchover — Peak District National Park, an easy 2.8 miles (4.5 km) path. This trail offers exploration of Stanton Moor's ancient monuments and natural features.
- Local hikers also love the Nine Ladies Stone Circle – Cork Stone loop from Birchover CP, a 3.5 miles (5.7 km) trail leading through moorland and past the Cork Stone, often completed in about 1 hour 34 minutes.
- Hiking around Birchover is defined by gritstone outcrops, ancient stone circles, and open moorland. The network offers options for different ability levels, with 23 easy hiking trails available.
- The routes in Birchover are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 1,700 reviews. More than 8,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Birchover's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.9
(66)
274
hikers
Embark on an easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) loop from Birchover, exploring Stanton Moor and its ancient woodlands. This hike, taking about 1 hour and 23 minutes with just 338 feet (103 metres) of elevation gain, offers expansive views across the Peak District countryside. You'll traverse open moorland and broad, accessible paths, encountering distinctive gritstone edges and picturesque scenes of Birchover village. Look out for the famous Nine Ladies Stone Circle, a Bronze Age relic standing proudly on the moor.
This easy route is suitable for all skill and fitness levels, featuring easily accessible paths and typically no steep gradients. Some sections even boast no stiles, making the journey smoother. The trail primarily uses broad paths through fields and woodlands, ensuring a comfortable and straightforward hiking experience.
Stanton Moor is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, rich in archaeological significance with over 70 ancient burial mounds and four Bronze Age stone circles. Beyond the Nine Ladies, you can also discover the Cork Stone, a climbable sandstone boulder, and the Earl Grey Tower, commemorating the 1832 Reform Bill. Near Birchover, the mysterious Rowtor Rocks complex offers intricate carvings and caverns.
4.9
(62)
239
hikers
Embark on an easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hike around Stanton Moor, gaining 281 feet (86 metres) in elevation, which typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Starting from the charming village of Birchover, the trail quickly leads you through enchanting woodlands before opening up onto the bracken-clad moor. You will find easy walking along broad paths, though some sections involve uneven surfaces, gates, and stiles, offering magnificent views across the Peak District countryside and valleys.
This route is suitable for a wide range of fitness levels, including families with children, making it a great choice for a relaxed outing. Birchover village itself provides a welcoming starting point, with local pubs like The Druid Inn and Red Lion Inn available for refreshments before or after your adventure. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the diverse scenery and historical landmarks.
The trail is rich in history and unique geological features, most notably the Bronze Age Nine Ladies Stone Circle, a significant archaeological site. You can also explore impressive gritstone formations like Robin Hood's Stride and the climbable Cork Stone. Stanton Moor is protected as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, preserving its numerous prehistoric remains and offering a glimpse into ancient times.
Sign up for free
4.9
(32)
95
hikers
5.68km
01:34
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(14)
48
hikers
6.34km
01:51
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
21
hikers
6.55km
01:54
170m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Birchover
Other adventures around Birchover
Tips from the Community
A short but exciting scramble up the rocky outcrop behind Birchover village leads to Rowtor Rocks, a wonderland of weirdly carved boulders, hidden tunnels, secret steps, and a proper little cave once used by a 17th-century vicar who liked to play at being a druid. Kids from age 4 absolutely love it here – there’s endless climbing, squeezing through narrow gaps, discovering carved chairs and altars, and plenty of “secret cave” excitement without it ever feeling too big or overwhelming. The paths are short, the rocks are grippy, and little legs can explore to their heart’s content while parents keep an easy eye from just a few metres away. Bring wellies or grippy shoes after rain (it can be slippy) and let the kids lead the adventure – they’ll be talking about their “druid cave mission” for weeks
0
0
Great early morning walk, gentle on the knees, fantastic views highly recommended
0
0
Cork Stone is one of several interesting standing stones on Stanton Moor. It is 5m tall piece of weathered sandstone located above the remnants of a quarry site. At some point hollowed out steps and metal rings were added to allow people (kids and their grownups!) to climb to the top
0
0
This stone circle from the Bronze Age, built thousands of years before the beginning of the Christian era, is neither as large nor nearly as famous as the legendary "Stonehenge" on the plains near Amesbury (which is, after all, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; if you're interested, see =>> https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/960007 ), but this one can be visited without much tourist hustle and bustle, and it also has a much more interesting-sounding name...
0
0
Don't forget to check out the Druid's Rocks behind the Inn. Great place to explore.
0
0
The original hall was said to have been built between 1628 and 1629 for Francis Moore, a proprietor of several local lead mines. The stone used in the construction is said to have come from the Stancliffe quarries in Darley Dale, being transported on pack horses. The hall was rebuilt by the Moore family around 1720. It was lived in by William Marsland until 1903 and then his widow until 1926 when it was sold for £750 (equivalent to £55,000 in 2023) to Mr. Butler of Wingfield. In the 1970s the hall became Winster Hall Hotel run by Derek and Pauline Wood, but this closed in 1999. It reverted to a private dwelling and is let out as a self-catering holiday home.
0
0
It's a lovely brick built listed building and on the first floor is an unmanned information room with interpretation panels detailing the history of the village and a scale model of Winster. Standing almost in the centre of the main street, Winster Market House is a dominating feature of the village, and stands as testimony to its once thriving past. Winster village itself is interesting to explore on foot, as part of a visit to the Peak District.
0
0
Grade II listed Church. The tower dates from 1721. Matthew Habershon made alterations in 1840 to 1842, and A Roland Barker started some restoration in 1884, which was completed in 1885.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Birchover?
Birchover offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with 23 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are over 40 hiking routes in the area, catering to various preferences.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on easy hikes in Birchover?
Easy hikes around Birchover showcase distinctive gritstone outcrops, expansive open moorland, and ancient woodlands. You'll encounter unique formations like Robin Hood's Stride and the Cork Stone, often integrated into circular walks across Stanton Moor.
Are there any historical sites or ancient monuments accessible on easy trails?
Yes, Birchover's easy trails are rich in history. You can explore the Nine Ladies Stone Circle, a Bronze Age monument on Stanton Moor, and discover other ancient burial mounds. The area also features remnants of 17th and 18th-century packhorse routes.
Are the easy trails around Birchover suitable for families?
Many easy trails in Birchover are well-suited for families, offering manageable distances and gentle gradients. Routes like the Stanton Moor and Nine Ladies loop are popular choices for a family-friendly outing, allowing exploration of historical sites and natural beauty.
Can I bring my dog on easy hikes in Birchover?
Yes, Birchover is generally dog-friendly. Most easy hiking trails are suitable for dogs, but always ensure your dog is under control, especially around livestock on moorland areas. Remember to follow the Countryside Code and clean up after your pet.
Are there easy circular walks available from Birchover?
Absolutely. Birchover is an excellent starting point for easy circular walks. Popular options include the Stanton Moor & the Nine Ladies Stone Circle loop and the Nine Ladies Stone Circle – Cork Stone loop, both offering diverse scenery and returning to the village.
Where can I find parking for easy walks in Birchover?
Parking is typically available in or near Birchover village, often at designated car parks or roadside spots suitable for accessing the trailheads. For specific routes, check the tour details for recommended starting points and parking information.
What are the best viewpoints on easy trails around Birchover?
Even on easy trails, you can find rewarding viewpoints. Stanton Moor offers picturesque views across the surrounding countryside, including over Bakewell and Matlock. The iconic Robin Hood's Stride also serves as a popular lookout point with impressive vistas.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Birchover?
The easy trails in Birchover are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,700 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse scenery, the blend of natural gritstone formations with ancient historical sites, and the well-regarded network of paths that make exploration enjoyable.
Are there any pubs or cafes near the easy hiking routes in Birchover?
Birchover village itself has local pubs that are welcoming to hikers, such as The Druid Inn, which can be incorporated into walks like The Druid Inn, Birchover – Rowtor Rocks loop. These establishments provide a convenient stop for refreshments after your hike.
What is the best time of year to enjoy easy hikes in Birchover?
Birchover's easy hikes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers pleasant weather for moorland walks, autumn provides beautiful foliage, and even winter can be magical with crisp air and occasional snow, though conditions may require appropriate gear.
Are there any caves or unique rock formations to explore on easy walks?
Yes, Birchover is known for its distinctive gritstone formations. You can explore Rowtor Rocks, a mysterious cave complex with ancient carvings, and discover the Hermit's Cave along the base of Cratcliffe Tor, which features a carved crucifix and a stone bed.
How long do easy hikes typically take in Birchover?
Easy hikes in Birchover vary in length, but many can be completed within 1.5 to 2.5 hours. For example, the Stanton Moor and Nine Ladies loop is about 3.1 miles (5.0 km) and typically takes around 1 hour 24 minutes.
Most popular attractions around Birchover
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
