Bamford Edge & Moor loop from Ladybower — Peak District National Park

Embark on an easy 3.9-mile (6.3 km) hike around the Bamford Edge & Moor loop from Ladybower, a route that typically takes 1 hour and 54 minutes to complete. You will gain 618 feet (188 metres) in elevation as you traverse varied terrain, including dirt, grass, and moorland with heather and fern. The ascent to Bamford Edge can be steep, but it rewards you with panoramic views overlooking Ladybower Reservoir and the Hope Valley. You will also encounter woodland paths, stiles, and sections of gravel and asphalt, with rocky and uneven parts, especially on Bamford Edge itself.

For your visit, parking is available near Ladybower Reservoir, such as at Heatherdene car park, or in the village of Bamford, which also has public transport links. There is no permit or entrance fee required to hike this trail within the Peak District National Park. While the trail is generally dog-friendly, remember to keep your dog on a lead around livestock and to protect ground-nesting birds. Be prepared for potentially muddy and slippery conditions, especially after rain, and note that the uneven and rocky sections make the route unsuitable for prams.

This loop is particularly notable for its iconic views from Bamford Edge, offering some of the most photographed vistas in the Peak District. The trail provides a rich and varied hiking experience, seamlessly transitioning between craggy moorland, dense woodlands, and waterside paths around Ladybower Reservoir. You can also observe the distinctive Ladybower Reservoir plug holes and the historic Derwent Dam, adding a layer of historical interest to your journey.