Alastair's Miscellany: Stanage Edge

Sunday 15 April 2012

Stanage Edge

Path to Stanage Edge

For various reasons I’ll admit now that I’m not going to be able to get much walking done this year. That situation will improve next year, but, for now, to keep the walking side of this blog ticking over I’ll share some of my favorite previous walks.

First up along those lines is Stanage Edge. Situated in the Peak District this is one of the areas famed gritstone escarpments. Probably most famous amongst climbers for it’s many routes it also provides a spectacularly beautiful area for walking. Evidence of previous stone working also abounds with many mill stones, carved, but never removed from the area, left under the escarpment.

Starting from the car park Upper Burbage Bridge (Grid Ref: SK260830) this is quite an easy walk with little ascent to do.

Head west along the path through the heather and after a short ascent you pop up onto the escaprment by the Trig point at SK251831. From here on you have wonderful views as you follow the edge roughly North West. You can look down into the valley towards Hathersage and Bamford, Bamford Moor, Ladybower Reservoir, Win Hill and the Great Ridge.

The High Neb Trig at SK228853 marks the high point of this walk at 458 meters above sea level (but given that you start at 398 meters that is not a great climb and once up on the edge it is quite flat). Past here carry on to Stanage End at SK226867. This is a great spot to stop and have lunch, tending to be quieter than the rest of the escarpment. Enjoy the view over Moscar Moor towards Ladybower.

From here follow the footpaths under the escarpment until Long Causeway (SK238846). The remains of a Roman road it can be used to re-ascend back up onto the escarpment. Then retrace your steps back to the car park.

This walk is absolutely lovely with some stunning views and can really be savoured on a nice day. Pictures below and if you do this walk I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.