Derwent Edge Circular Walk: Trail Guide to One of the Peak District’s Best Ridges

Looking for a ridge walk in the Peak District that combines dramatic gritstone tors, panoramic views, and a satisfying circular route? The Derwent Edge Circular Walk should be high on your list.

This loop from Ladybower Reservoir is a favourite for a reason — it’s accessible, well-defined, and full of Peak District personality. You’ll summit Back Tor and Lost Lad, pass weird and wonderful rock formations, and enjoy views across Derwent Valley, Kinder Scout, and beyond.

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Route Description

1. Start from Ladybower / Fairholmes

Start from the Fairholmes Visitor Centre near Ladybower Reservoir (or a nearby lay-by if full). Follow the path northwest alongside the reservoir before heading uphill through woods and moorland tracks toward Derwent Edge.

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2. Climb to Lost Lad and Back Tor

A steady climb through open heathland leads you first to Lost Lad — a lovely viewpoint with a lonely cairn and a backstory (legend says a shepherd boy got lost here in a storm).

From there, continue the ridge to reach Back Tor — the highest point on this route. It features a distinct gritstone outcrop and a perfect summit snack spot. Look out for views across to Kinder Scout and the High Peak moorlands.

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3. Traverse the Ridge Past Iconic Tors

This is the magic of Derwent Edge. As you follow the undulating ridge path, you’ll pass a line of strange and photogenic rock formations:

• Wheel Stones (aka Salt Cellar)
  
• White Tor
  
• Dovestone Tor
  
• Cakes of Bread
  

Each one feels like nature’s own sculpture park.

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4. Descend Back via Abbey Bank or Cutthroat Bridge

The circular return leg takes you downhill across the moor and curves back south toward Derwent Reservoir. Depending on your loop, you’ll either:

• descend via Abbey Bank and Whinstone Lee Fields, or
  
• create a larger loop by continuing to Cutthroat Bridge before circling back along the reservoir edge.
  

Both options finish with a chilled, flat walk beside the water.

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What to Bring

• Grippy boots – can be muddy and boggy in sections
  
• Map & compass – OS Explorer OL1 (Dark Peak)
  
• Waterproofs & windproofs – it’s exposed up top
  
• Snacks & water – no facilities after Fairholmes
  
• Phone/camera – the gritstone formations are incredibly photogenic
  
• Peaky Baggers app – log your summits and track the route offline
  

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Tips & Safety

• Weather changes fast – ridge can be windy and exposed
  
• Don’t rely solely on GPS – bring a paper map if unsure
  
• Start early on weekends – car parks fill up quickly
  
• Stick to paths – the surrounding moor is protected habitat
  
• Bring change for parking at Fairholmes or use contactless
  

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Why You’ll Love It

• Some of the best views in the Peak District
  
• Unique rock formations — perfect for photographers
  
• Quiet ridge path after the initial climb
  
• Ideal circular route for building hill stamina
  
• Great “ridge walk energy” without the scariness of scrambling
  

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Final Thoughts

The Derwent Edge Circular Walk is a Peak District classic — a route that blends visual drama with relative ease. If you love the idea of a ridge walk with summit vibes, wild gritstone features, and peaceful moorland atmosphere, this one delivers in every direction.

Whether you’re building your trig-point list, training for bigger hills, or just want a great day out with friends — this is a route you’ll want to repeat.

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Post-Hike Treat

Grab a hot chocolate, cake, or post-walk cuppa at the Fairholmes Visitor Centre kiosk — or pop into nearby Bamford for a pub lunch at the Yorkshire Bridge Inn.

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Track & Share

Tick off Back Tor, Lost Lad, and Dovestone Tor in the Peaky Baggers app, share your best ridge photos with #PeakyBaggers, and show the Peaks some love!

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Photo by Tom Wheatley on Unsplash

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