Autumn in the Peaks: Autumn is definitely here in the Peak District with the lovely colours. There has been a lot of rain after the drought this summer and although the reservoirs are still not full, the ground is wet. Take care especially over Kinder and Bleaklow. [November 2026]

Baslow and Curbar Edges

Baslow and Curbar Edges
Start : Curbar Gap car park The popular car park at Curbar Gap.[SK261747 308m ]
Summary : Curbar Gap - Baslow Edge - Welligton Monument - Curbar Gap - Curbar Edge - Curbar Gap
distance : 7.5km.
ascent : 140m.
time : 2hr. 30min.

Extending north (Curbar) and south (Baslow) from the starting point at Curbar Gap car park, these two gritstone edges offer an exceptional walking experience. Throughout the route, hikers are treated to sweeping westward vistas across the White Peak toward Stoney Middleton; however, the true highlight of the walk is the dramatic escarpments themselves. Conveniently structured into two distinct sections, the route can easily be shortened if time is limited. It is an ideal choice for a scenic summer evening stroll.


Hathersage

Current Weather

Last Updated today at : 16:07:33

Overall : scattered clouds
Temperature : 9degC.
Wind Speed : 7km/hr.
Wind Direction : W
Clouds : scattered clouds
Precipitation : none
Sunrise : 07:18:09
Sunset : 16:22:36
: Times are GMT add 1 hour for BST

Data from openweathermap.org

Pay-and-display parking is available at Curbar Gap, located at the top of the minor road above Curbar village. The car park is situated on the north side of the road, just east of the gap.

Begin by carefully crossing the road from the car park and passing through the gate to follow the clear, well-defined track. The route proceeds along a distinct track set approximately 50 metres east of the cliff edge across open moorland. En route, the path passes the impressive Eagle Stone to the east, a prominent gritstone landmark worth exploring, though now weathered smooth and challenging to climb. At the track junction, turn left towards Wellington’s Monument. While tree growth over time has partially enclosed the monument, it still offers commanding panoramic views taking in Birchen and Gardom’s Edges, the eastern moors, and the rolling limestone landscapes of the Peak District to the west. (1.0kms. 20m. 0hrs. 20min.)

Return toward Curbar Gap along the crest of Baslow Edge. Retrace your steps toward the edge, opting for the narrower footpath along the escarpment rim rather than the main moorland track. Though less defined than the outward path, this route offers an authentic edge-walking experience with sweeping northward vistas of the Peak District’s primary gritstone edges. As you approach the end of Baslow Edge, enjoy one of the finest vantage points overlooking Curbar Edge before rejoinining the main track at the stile. (1.5kms. 20m. 0hrs. 30min.)

Carefully cross the road from the car park and follow the clearly marked path around the western side, continuing through the gate onto the moor. Follow the main track, which runs parallel to the edge about 20 metres to the east, until reaching the distinct dip separating Curbar Edge and Froggatt Edge. This section features continuous views of Curbar Edge, opening up to encompass Froggatt Edge as well as the distant horizons of Burbage and Stanage Edges. (2.5kms. 50m. 0hrs. 50min.)

For the return journey, branch onto the narrow rim path directly along the cliff edge. This section showcases dramatic rock formations and offers opportunities to spot local rock climbers. The edge path presents exceptional views along the escarpment and across the valley toward Chatsworth House. Near the end of the ridge, descend along the path toward the road and head east to return to the car park. (2.5kms. 50m. 0hrs. 50min.)

Gemini [AI] has been used to improve the text in this description.

27th March 2025 A lovely spring day but with a bit of a wind. I did this walk in the opposite order; Curbar edge then Baslow. It was nice to sit on the seat by Wellington Monument for a cup of tea. This is only a short walk but well worth getting out. There are great views of the Peak District from these edges including the villages of the Derwent Valley, the edges themselves, and further beyond.

6th July 2020 Walked a different version of this walk startimng at the NT carpark just north of Froggatt. The first part is through the forest until the true edge comes into sight. Paths all the way from Froggatt, to Curbar over the road to Baslow and back the same way. Great wander along the edges with views of Chatsworth when going south and the norther Peak District when looking north. Quite busy on this sunny day and a bit of effort is needed to socially-distance.