Wirksworth StarDisc
A 21st-century stone circle featuring a carved star chart, offering stunning views and a unique astronomical experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical when lit up
Wirksworth StarDisc
Best Time
Magical when lit up
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 21st-century stone circle featuring a carved star chart, offering stunning views and a unique astronomical experience.
"Amazing spot to visit at all times of the day, very hidden. Not the easiest place to get to by car but worth the extra effort."
🚗 Drive with Caution
Access road is very steep & narrow. Park in Wirksworth if unsure.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk up from Wirksworth is steep but rewarding.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The StarDisc Itself
Top of the hill
A 21st-century stone circle featuring a carved star chart mirroring the Northern Hemisphere's night sky.
Panoramic Derbyshire Views
Surrounding the StarDisc
Breathtaking vistas of Wirksworth, the surrounding quarry, and the Derbyshire Dales. Perfect for photography.
Stoney Woods Walks
Base of the hill
Explore picturesque trails through Stoney Woods, offering a gentler walking experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Access & Parking
Day vs. Night Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
Access road is very steep & narrow. Park in Wirksworth if unsure.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk up from Wirksworth is steep but rewarding.
✨ See it Lit Up
Many visitors recommend seeing the StarDisc at night when it's illuminated.
📸 Capture the Views
Amazing panoramic views of the Derbyshire Dales.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
Access road is very steep & narrow. Park in Wirksworth if unsure.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk up from Wirksworth is steep but rewarding.
✨ See it Lit Up
Many visitors recommend seeing the StarDisc at night when it's illuminated.
📸 Capture the Views
Amazing panoramic views of the Derbyshire Dales.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Walks
Combine your visit with hikes through Stoney Woods.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Wirksworth StarDisc for its unique astronomical art and stunning panoramic views, especially when illuminated at night. However, the steep and narrow access road, coupled with limited parking, presents a significant challenge for drivers. Many recommend parking in town and enjoying the rewarding walk up.
"Great place to visit, loverly walks nearby, however, if you are driving the access road is very steep and narrow, big problem if you meet someone coming the other way and not a lot of parking."
Glyn Davis
"My partner and I visited this today, set next to a wonderful looking quarry, very picturesque, great trails to hike, and a decent array of places to eat and drink. I would have liked to have seen it at night as well and this is supposedly a wonder to behold. I am sure we will be revisiting again to see it all lit up."
Mike Zarancha
"We parked down in Wirksworth and walked up. It's a road so easy to walk on but very steep walk up there. Lovely spot at the top to visit the Star Disc. We went in the day so didn't see it lit up but still nice visit. There are other walks to do through Stoney Woods"
Nikki Bushell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The StarDisc is located near Wirksworth, Derbyshire. Driving access is via a very steep and narrow road, which can be challenging. Many visitors opt to park in Wirksworth town and walk up, which is a steep but scenic route.
Parking at the StarDisc itself is very limited and the access road is difficult for vehicles. It's often recommended to park in Wirksworth and walk up to avoid potential issues.
Yes, you can reach Wirksworth by public transport and then undertake the steep walk up to the StarDisc. The walk from town is a popular option for those without a car.
Nearby attractions include Black Rocks, Carsington Water, and Crich Stand, all within a short drive of Wirksworth.
The road is very steep and narrow, making it difficult for larger vehicles or if you encounter oncoming traffic. It's best suited for smaller cars driven with caution.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Wirksworth StarDisc is a public art installation and is free to visit. There are no admission fees.
The StarDisc is accessible at all times, as it is an outdoor installation. However, the experience is often enhanced when it's lit up at night.
There is no entry fee to visit the Wirksworth StarDisc. It's a free public art piece.
Yes, many visitors recommend visiting at night to see the StarDisc illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
As an outdoor installation, there are generally no specific restrictions, but visitors should be mindful of the steep terrain and respect the site.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The Wirksworth StarDisc is a 21st-century stone circle, a public art installation featuring a carved star chart that mirrors the Northern Hemisphere's night sky. It also has 12 seats representing the months of the year.
You can see the intricate star chart carved into the granite, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Derbyshire landscape, and experience the unique atmosphere of this astronomical art piece.
Absolutely! The StarDisc and the surrounding views offer fantastic opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise, sunset, or when the installation is lit at night.
There are no dedicated facilities like restrooms directly at the StarDisc itself. Visitors typically use facilities in Wirksworth town before or after their visit.
The terrain is hilly, with a steep road leading up to the StarDisc. There are also walking trails through nearby Stoney Woods.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Wirksworth town offers a decent array of places to eat and drink, from cafes to pubs. You can find options before or after your walk to the StarDisc.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can bring your own food and enjoy a picnic with the stunning views. Remember to take all your litter with you.
Wirksworth has a variety of eateries, including traditional pubs, cafes, and tearooms, offering a range of dining experiences.
No, there is no cafe directly at the StarDisc. The nearest amenities are in Wirksworth town.
The Featherstar Pub is mentioned in relation to live music at the StarDisc, suggesting it's a nearby venue for refreshments.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours (sunrise and sunset) offer beautiful light for the landscape. Visiting at night to see the StarDisc illuminated is also highly recommended for unique shots.
You can capture the intricate details of the carved star chart, the expansive views of the Derbyshire Dales, and the unique ambiance of the installation, especially at night.
The entire area around the StarDisc offers great vantage points. Experiment with different angles to capture both the installation and the surrounding scenery.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the StarDisc and the landscape. A tripod is essential for low-light photography at night.
While drone footage exists, always check local regulations and be mindful of privacy and safety before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited at the site itself. Parking can be a challenge, so planning to park in Wirksworth and walk up might be easier with children. Exploring the nearby Stoney Woods offers a less strenuous option for younger legs or a change of scenery.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Those looking for scenic drives and viewpoints will also appreciate the location. The surrounding Derbyshire Dales offer numerous opportunities for exploration, with places like Black Rocks and Alport Heights being easily accessible by car for a broader exploration of the area.
✨ Art and Astronomy Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during a clear night for the best stargazing experience, though the illuminated installation itself is a spectacle. The combination of art, science, and stunning natural scenery makes it a unique and thought-provoking destination.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Astronomical Significance
This public art piece serves as an outdoor observatory and a place for contemplation. It's designed to educate and inspire, offering a unique perspective on our place in the cosmos. Many visitors are fascinated by the accuracy of the star chart and the concept of aligning oneself with the constellations.
While the installation is impressive during the day, its true magic is often described as coming alive at night. When illuminated, the carved stars and celestial patterns create an ethereal atmosphere, making it a truly memorable experience for stargazers and art enthusiasts alike.
Navigating the Terrain and Access
The walk from Wirksworth is described as steep but rewarding, offering beautiful views as you ascend. For those who prefer a slightly different route or a longer hike, parking at Black Rocks and walking through the Stone Centre is another option, though it's noted as being very tiring.
Once at the top, the area around the StarDisc is hilly. While the walk can be strenuous, the payoff is the stunning panoramic scenery and the unique art installation itself. Visitors emphasize wearing appropriate footwear for the steep inclines and uneven terrain.
Community and Events at the StarDisc
Local traditions also find a home here, with footage capturing May Day celebrations featuring border morris dancing. This demonstrates how the StarDisc integrates into the cultural fabric of the region, serving as a backdrop for both modern and traditional events.
Furthermore, the StarDisc has been a venue for live music, with mentions of 'The Gulls' performing there. This suggests a vibrant local scene that utilizes the unique setting for performances, drawing people together for shared experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit