Welcome to Bakewell, a charming market town in the Derbyshire Dales full of history and beautiful countryside.
There’s no better way to explore all that Bakewell has to offer than on foot. From gentle hikes to more challenging walks, there are plenty of routes to choose from.
Here’s a roundup of the 15 best walks in Bakewell, with something for everyone.
So lace up your boots and let’s go explore!
Monsal Trail
You’ll love the scenic views on the Monsal Trail – it’s the perfect way to explore Bakewell’s stunning countryside!
Meandering through the beautiful Derbyshire landscape, the Monsal Trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
From deep limestone dales to the River Wye, the Monsal Trail will bring you closer to nature and allow you to discover the beauty of the Peak District.
With its easy access, you can explore the route on foot, by bike or even on horseback.
Plus, there are plenty of places to stop for refreshments along the way, so you can take a break and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.
So grab your walking shoes and get ready for an adventure – the Monsal Trail awaits!
Nine Ladies Stone Circle
Discover the mysterious Nine Ladies Stone Circle, an ancient monument that has captivated visitors for centuries.
Located near the village of Stanton in the Peak, this remarkable site can easily be reached by car or on foot. It’s a short but rewarding walk through the Derbyshire peak district, with stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities.
The Nine Ladies Stone Circle is believed to be around 3,000 years old and is thought to have been erected by Neolithic or Bronze Age people.
It’s a Scheduled Ancient Monument and is a popular spot for pagan gatherings and celebrations.
Pay a visit to this magical spot and marvel at the mysteries that surround it.
Gardom’s Edge
Gardom’s Edge is a spectacular viewpoint that offers stunning views of the Derbyshire countryside. Located near the small village of Baslow, this hilltop spot is perfect for a leisurely walk.
The view is breathtaking, as you can see for miles in any direction—it’s as if you can stretch out and touch the horizon.
There are many paths to choose from, allowing you to explore the surrounding area at your own pace.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the local wildlife, such as red deer or peregrine falcons.
Regardless of the path you take, you’re sure to be rewarded with stunning views and memories that will last a lifetime.
Chatsworth Estate
Chatsworth House, an exquisite English country house located on the Chatsworth Estate in Derbyshire, is a must-see for nature-lovers.
The estate is home to an array of stunning landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Peak District to the lush, wooded areas, all of which are perfect for taking a leisurely stroll.
Visitors are welcome to explore the grounds of the estate, which features a lake, gardens, temples, deer park, and a number of breathtakingly beautiful walks.
The four-mile walk around the lake is a great way to take in the stunning views of the Chatsworth Estate.
For those looking for a more challenging experience, the five-mile walk to the top of the estate offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
No matter the path you choose, the Chatsworth Estate is the perfect destination for a peaceful day out in nature.
Padley Gorge
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Padley Gorge, a stunning gorge hidden within the Chatsworth Estate, and experience the serene atmosphere of its tranquil woodlands.
As you make your way through the winding pathways of this hidden oasis, you’ll be captivated by the grandeur of the towering trees, the lush green foliage, and the sparkling stream that flows through the gorge.
Follow the path as it meanders its way through the woods, taking in the sights and sounds of nature that surround you.
Keep your eyes peeled for birds and other wildlife that can be spotted along the way. With every step you take, you’ll be filled with a sense of awe and wonder.
Enjoy a peaceful stroll through Padley Gorge and take in the breathtaking views that make it one of the best walks in Bakewell.
Lathkill Dale
Take a journey to Lathkill Dale, a picturesque limestone valley nestled in the Peak District, and explore its natural beauty.
This scenic spot is a popular destination for walkers of all levels. The path takes you through the valley, leading you past cascading waterfalls and towering limestone cliffs. You’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful, relaxing walk.
The walk can range from a leisurely stroll to a more challenging hike, depending on the route you take. If you’re looking for something more challenging, try the route that takes you up to the top of Over Owler Tor, where you can take in the stunning views of the valley and Derbyshire countryside.
No matter which route you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in the stunning Lathkill Dale.
Haddon Hall
Experience the grandeur of Haddon Hall, a stunning medieval manor house located in Bakewell, Derbyshire. This ancient house has been home to the same family since the 12th century and boasts a beautiful, Jacobean-style façade.
It’s surrounded by lush gardens and parkland, making it the perfect spot for a walk. Head to the pond terrace, where you can get a great view of the house and its grounds. Take a stroll through the gardens and parkland, and admire the impressive topiary.
You can also explore the medieval buildings, including the chapel and the dovecote. There’s plenty to marvel at during your visit to Haddon Hall. Whether you’re on a leisurely walk or a full-on hike, you’re sure to find something to admire at this stunning location.
High Neb & Curbar Edge
For an awe-inspiring trek, explore High Neb and Curbar Edge. This 4-5 mile hike takes you on a journey along some of the most beautiful countryside in the Peak District. You will be treated to sweeping views of the Derwent Valley, and of the majestic Chatsworth Estate in the backdrop.
As you climb up High Neb, the highest point in this region, you will be surrounded by lush greenery and diverse wildlife. The second part of the adventure is a serious descent down Curbar Edge, a sheer sandstone escarpment that provides stunning vistas of the Derwent Valley.
It is an exciting adventure, and one that will leave you with some indelible memories.
Bakewell to Rowsley Walk
If you’re looking for a picturesque stroll through the countryside, the Bakewell to Rowsley walk is perfect.
This 4.5-mile circular route takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Derbyshire.
Starting in Bakewell, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the River Wye and the rolling hills of Bakewell before heading into the Derbyshire Dales.
Along the way, you’ll be able to take in the breathtaking views of Chatsworth Estate and the peak district.
As you make your way back to Rowsley, you’ll pass through some charming villages and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the river.
The entire walk should take no more than two or three hours and is an ideal way to spend a day in the Derbyshire countryside.
Baslow Edge
Take in the stunning views of Baslow Edge as you make your way along this scenic walk. The area is popular amongst hikers and provides an unforgettable experience.
Begin the journey in the village of Baslow, which is situated at the foot of the southern end of the Edge. Here, you can take in the wonderful views of the Derwent Valley, before heading up the hillside to explore the dramatic limestone escarpment.
As you ascend, the views become even more impressive. Take your time to savor the beauty of the landscape, and you may even spot some wildlife along the way.
The peak of the Edge, called Birchen Edge, is the highest point on the walk, and here you can take in the breathtaking views of the Peak District National Park.
The return journey is slightly downhill, and you will be able to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the spectacular views of the Derwent Valley before your journey comes to an end.
Millers Dale
Leaving Baslow Edge behind, I headed to the next stop on my tour of the best walks in Bakewell, Millers Dale.
This picturesque route follows a small stream through the valley of the River Wye, with rolling hills, lush meadows, and plenty of wildlife to explore.
The path is mostly flat and easy to follow, but there are a few sections of steep steps that add a bit of challenge.
As I walked along, I could hear the soft rushing of the stream and the birds singing in the trees.
I spotted a few rabbits and even a fox running through the grass.
The scenery was magnificent and I could have stayed there for hours, just taking it all in.
Cressbrook and Litton Dales
Continuing on my tour of the area, I next made my way to Cressbrook and Litton Dales, where I was greeted by stunning views of the Wye Valley and its rolling hills.
This is one of the most popular walks in the area, and I could see why – the scenery was absolutely breathtaking.
The trail took me through the picturesque villages of Cressbrook and Litton, both of which boast impressive historic buildings, old churches, and beautiful gardens.
I hiked up to the top of Cressbrook Dale, where I was rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the Derbyshire countryside.
As I continued my trek, I spotted some of the local wildlife, including herds of sheep and a few rabbits.
The walk was a delight for all the senses, with the fresh air and stunning views providing a truly memorable experience.
Stanton Moor
Heading next to Stanton Moor, you can experience a unique blend of ancient history and natural beauty. This incredible natural monument is 4 miles from Bakewell and is known for its collection of ancient stone circles, burial mounds, and other historical monuments.
It’s a tranquil and peaceful place to explore, with a beautiful rolling landscape of heather-covered moorland and wildflower-dotted meadows. The moor is home to a variety of wildlife, including peregrine falcons, hares, and red grouse, making it a great spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
There are plenty of paths to explore, from short strolls to more strenuous hikes, so you can find something that suits your level of fitness. If you’re looking for a peaceful, beautiful walk that takes you to a place of ancient history and natural beauty, then head to Stanton Moor.
Chatsworth Park
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Chatsworth Park and explore its lush gardens, romantic riverbanks, and stately grounds.
The park is a great place to go for a leisurely stroll or a more rigorous hike.
You can take in the incredible views of the rolling hills and the River Derwent, and take a moment to appreciate the park’s stunning architecture, including the iconic Chatsworth House.
The park also offers plenty of activities for all ages, from the children’s playground to the deer park.
For the more adventurous, there’s a network of footpaths, cycling trails, and bridleways that take you through the picturesque Derbyshire countryside.
Chatsworth Park is a great place to explore and appreciate nature, and it’s the perfect spot to enjoy some of the best walks in Bakewell.
Cromford Canal Walk
Take a leisurely stroll along the Cromford Canal and discover the beauty of the Derbyshire countryside. With its rich industrial heritage, the canal is a fascinating reminder of the area’s past.
A well-maintained pathway along the canal makes for an ideal leisurely walk, with plenty of places to take a break and admire the scenery. Enjoy views of the River Derwent as it winds its way through the countryside, with its many locks and bridges.
The wildlife along the walk is abundant, with plenty of opportunities to spot a variety of birds and other animals. The canal is also home to many rare plants and flowers, making it a great place to explore.
With a range of pubs and cafes close to the canal, it’s the perfect destination for a relaxing day out. Spend an afternoon walking, and discover the beauty of Cromford Canal.
Conclusion
After exploring the best walks in Bakewell, I can safely say I’ve had a fantastic journey.
From the historic Monsal Trail to the stunning Chatsworth Estate, I’ve seen the breathtaking beauty of the Peak District National Park.
I’ve taken in the picturesque surroundings of Padley Gorge, the Nine Ladies Stone Circle, and so much more.
With so many stunning views and hikes to explore, I’ll definitely be back for more!