
Stanton Moor Derbyshire
Explore ancient stone circles and breathtaking moorland landscapes in Derbyshire's Stanton Moor, a place of legend and natural beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bluebells bloom vibrantly

Stanton Moor Derbyshire
Best Time
Bluebells bloom vibrantly

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient stone circles and breathtaking moorland landscapes in Derbyshire's Stanton Moor, a place of legend and natural beauty.
"This moorland is the most refreshing place to clear your head, relax, and go on an adventure."

🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Circle
Venture around the Nine Ladies to find hidden, beautiful spots away from the main crowds.
🌳 Discover Reclaimed Woodlands
Take the path via the quarry for a stunning walk through nature's reclaimed 'cathedral'.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Nine Ladies Stone Circle
Stanton Moor
Ancient Bronze Age stones shrouded in legend, offering a peaceful and beautiful atmosphere.

Doll Tor
Stanton Moor
A smaller Bronze Age stone circle, often less crowded, offering a glimpse into ancient rituals.

The Cork Stone
Stanton Moor
A distinctive large standing stone, rumored to be part of ancient ley lines.

Reclaimed Quarry Woodlands
Stanton Moor (near quarry)
Breathtaking natural beauty where nature has reclaimed an old quarry, featuring ferns, streams, and moss-covered stones.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Moorland Magic
Navigating the Nine Ladies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Circle
Venture around the Nine Ladies to find hidden, beautiful spots away from the main crowds.
🌳 Discover Reclaimed Woodlands
Take the path via the quarry for a stunning walk through nature's reclaimed 'cathedral'.
📸 Be Patient for Photos
The Nine Ladies can get busy; be prepared to wait for clear shots of the stones.
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Be cautious near valley edges as some have steep drops.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Circle
Venture around the Nine Ladies to find hidden, beautiful spots away from the main crowds.
🌳 Discover Reclaimed Woodlands
Take the path via the quarry for a stunning walk through nature's reclaimed 'cathedral'.
📸 Be Patient for Photos
The Nine Ladies can get busy; be prepared to wait for clear shots of the stones.
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Be cautious near valley edges as some have steep drops.
♻️ Pack Out Your Litter
Help keep this vast landscape pristine by taking all your rubbish with you.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Stanton Moor is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty, ancient stone circles, and refreshing atmosphere, making it a top spot for walks and adventures. While generally well-maintained, some visitors note occasional littering in wooded areas. The Nine Ladies stone circle can get crowded, but exploring further reveals peaceful, hidden gems.
"Nice place for a walk it is quite a big place there are a few valleys as well so be careful when walking near the edge as some have a huge drop.
This is the place where the Ladies stone circle and the Cork Stone are located. It was very busy when I visited not sure if that was jus the warm weather but was a lot of people near to the stone circle sitting in the middle which was annoying as they were picnicking so could not really get good photo of the stones."
WattoPhotos
"We walked up the most difficult path as we were lost. We came up from the road via the quarry BUT it was an absolutely stunning walk. Nature has taken the quarry over and the trees, ferns, streams, bird life, and moss covered stones were breathtaking. One of nature's reclaimed 'cathedrals'. Once we finally reached the top of the quarry path...about 15 minutes, we followed the set route markers - and came to a gate. After going through (and relocking it after ourselves) we followed the path to the left and came out of the trees, and into the stones!
The Ladies stand quietly in the sunshine (for us that day anyway). Waiting. They are small low stones...about 2ft tall. It is peaceful and utterly beautiful.
There was a drumming circle there that day and we met some very gentle souls - ramblers, families, dog walkers and those lovely drummers.
Do it. It's great."
Karen B
"This Moreland to me is the most refreshing place to clear your head, relax, and go on an adventure, for years it has amazed me at how vast and varied of a landscape it is and it has so much to offer. Sadly I went up there today to find that part of the wooded area had been trashed, litter everywhere discarded tents chairs rubbish you name it. Luckily this is off the main routes but it was upsetting to see what some people had done. However! Do not let that take away anything from this place... Is extensive and immersive and clean and litter free for the most part. It seems to be very well maintained every time I go, it was just a shame this time there was that. I garentee you if you go to Stanton lees moor you will fall in love with it and want to go back all the time. The villages are very very nice around the area also and makes for a very nice location to find a campsite to go on for a holiday 😃🏕️🏕️🏕️"
J M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stanton Moor is accessible by car, with parking available near the main attractions. The villages of Birchover and Stanton-in-Peak are good starting points for walks. Some routes involve passing through old stone houses and gates.
Public transport options are limited. Bus services may run to nearby villages like Birchover, but walking from the bus stop is often required. Check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information.
Many visitors enjoy walks starting from Birchover, heading up to the Nine Ladies stone circle. The path via the old quarry offers a particularly stunning, nature-reclaimed route.
There are parking areas near the Nine Ladies, but it's often a short walk from the car park to the stones themselves. This allows for a more immersive experience of the moorland.
While the roads leading to Stanton Moor are generally scenic, some can be narrow and winding. Drive cautiously and be mindful of local traffic and potential farm vehicles. The road passing through the 'dark ages' villages is noted as amazing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Stanton Moor is a public access area, and there are no entrance fees to explore the moorland or its stone circles.
Stanton Moor is open to the public at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the landscape.
Parking at Stanton Moor is generally free, though designated car parks may have small charges depending on the specific location. It's advisable to check signage at the car park.
Yes, the stone circles are accessible at any time. However, visiting during sunrise or sunset can offer a magical, atmospheric experience.
While generally open, be mindful of the natural environment. Avoid disturbing wildlife, and always pack out what you pack in. Some areas may have temporary access restrictions for conservation purposes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Stanton Moor is home to the famous Nine Ladies stone circle, Doll Tor, and the Cork Stone. The landscape itself, including reclaimed quarry woodlands and rolling moorland, is a major attraction.
A short visit to the Nine Ladies might take an hour, but to fully explore the moorland, enjoy walks, and visit other sites like Doll Tor, you could easily spend half a day or more.
Yes, Stanton Moor is great for families. The open moorland allows children to explore, and the legends surrounding the stone circles can spark their imagination. Be mindful of uneven terrain and steep drops near valleys.
You might encounter various bird species, and if you're lucky, you might spot deer or other small mammals. The reclaimed quarry woodlands are particularly rich in bird life.
There are no dedicated facilities directly on Stanton Moor. You'll find toilets and cafes in the nearby villages of Birchover and Stanton-in-Peak.
📸 📸 Photography
The Nine Ladies stone circle at sunrise or sunset offers dramatic lighting. The reclaimed quarry woodlands provide lush, green backdrops, and the panoramic views from the moorland are stunning.
Early morning or late afternoon light creates the most atmospheric photos of the Nine Ladies. Golden hour can cast a magical glow on the ancient stones.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near residential properties or for conservation reasons. Always check local regulations and be respectful of other visitors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the moor and the stone circles. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Consider a tripod for low-light photography.
While not a regular occurrence, photography workshops or guided tours focusing on landscape photography might be available. Keep an eye on local event listings or photography groups.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, it's advisable to stick to marked paths and be mindful of the terrain, which can be uneven. Keep a close eye on them near any valley edges due to potential steep drops. Packing snacks and drinks is a good idea, as facilities are limited on the moor itself. The reclaimed quarry woodlands offer a magical, almost fairy-tale setting for younger explorers.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Routes vary in difficulty, from gentle strolls to more challenging walks that incorporate the quarry paths. The area is perfect for a day hike, with opportunities to discover hidden spots and enjoy the tranquility of the Peak District. Remember to wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
✨ Spiritual Seekers and History Buffs
Visitors can explore the historical significance of the Bronze Age monuments and immerse themselves in the local legends. The peaceful atmosphere of the moor, especially away from the main crowds, can be conducive to meditation and reflection.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystery of the Nine Ladies
Visitors often describe a sense of peace and timelessness when standing among these stones. The stones themselves are relatively small, standing about two feet tall, but their presence on the vast moorland is commanding. The area around the circle is often a gathering place for various groups, from ramblers to drumming circles, adding to the vibrant, living history of the place.
While the main circle is a draw, exploring the surrounding moorland can reveal other ancient features, including burial mounds and smaller stone settings. The King Stone, located outside the main circle, is also a point of interest, said to lie on a ley line that passes through the Nine Ladies.
Exploring Stanton Moor's Diverse Landscapes
The moorland itself provides expansive views and a sense of wildness. It's a refreshing place to clear your head and embark on an adventure. However, visitors should be aware that while the moor is generally well-maintained, some wooded areas can unfortunately be subject to littering. It's a reminder for all to practice responsible tourism and 'leave no trace.'
Beyond the main attractions, the villages surrounding Stanton Moor, such as Birchover and Stanton-in-Peak, are charming and offer a glimpse into rural Derbyshire life. These villages can serve as excellent bases for exploring the moor or finding accommodation, with some even mentioning them as ideal spots for campsites.
Ancient History and Ley Lines
Many believe that Stanton Moor is situated on significant ley lines, invisible lines of energy that connect ancient sites. The Cork Stone and the King Stone are often cited as markers or points along these lines. This connection to ancient energies draws those interested in earth mysteries, druidry, and dowsing workshops, which are sometimes held in the area.
The presence of these ancient monuments and the theories surrounding them contribute to the unique atmosphere of Stanton Moor. It's a place where history, folklore, and a sense of the mystical converge, offering a profound experience for visitors who are open to its deeper meanings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit