Black Rocks
A dramatic gritstone outcrop offering superb views of the Derbyshire Dales, with access to historic walking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Black Rocks
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic gritstone outcrop offering superb views of the Derbyshire Dales, with access to historic walking trails.
"Phenomenal underrated place with gorgeous viewpoint and lovely walks accessible in the forest."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The climb is steep with loose stones. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable ascent. :athletic_shoe:
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't just see the rocks; the surrounding forest offers lovely walks and natural beauty. :hiking_boot:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 1,705 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Derbyshire Dales Views
Summit of Black Rocks
Breathtaking vistas across the rolling hills and valleys of the Derbyshire Dales. A truly stunning natural viewpoint.
Historic High Peak Trail Access
Base of Black Rocks
A crucial point on the High Peak Trail, offering access to scenic routes towards Parsley Hay, Buxton, or Cromford.
Etched Graffiti History
On the rock faces
Discover intriguing old graffiti etched into the gritstone, adding a unique historical layer to the natural landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Ascent, Rewarding Views
Explore Beyond the Rocks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The climb is steep with loose stones. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable ascent. :athletic_shoe:
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't just see the rocks; the surrounding forest offers lovely walks and natural beauty. :hiking_boot:
🚗 Ample Parking Available
There's plenty of parking, including free blue badge parking, at the nearby National Stone Centre. 🚗
☕ Cafe & Facilities Onsite
A cafe and toilets are conveniently located at the car park for your convenience. ☕
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The climb is steep with loose stones. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable ascent. :athletic_shoe:
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't just see the rocks; the surrounding forest offers lovely walks and natural beauty. :hiking_boot:
🚗 Ample Parking Available
There's plenty of parking, including free blue badge parking, at the nearby National Stone Centre. 🚗
☕ Cafe & Facilities Onsite
A cafe and toilets are conveniently located at the car park for your convenience. ☕
🏞️ Dog-Friendly Walks
Black Rocks is a great spot for a dog walk, but keep them on a lead where necessary. 🐕
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Black Rocks for its stunning panoramic views and its role as a gateway to the High Peak Trail. The short, steep climb is considered manageable for most, and the natural beauty of the area is a major draw. Some find the graffiti interesting, while others note the potential for it to detract from the natural scenery.
"We walked up from High Peak Junction and we're impressed by the views that greeted us. Perfect for a dog walk but remember to wear sturdy footwear as there is a little bit of a scramble up loose stones and gravel. I enjoyed looking at the old graffiti that's been etched into the stones."
My Review
"Phenomenal underrated place. Whenever I pop up to this gorgeous viewpoint just outside of Matlock in the beauty village of Cromford there is never anybody there. There’s plenty of parking and it’s a very short but steep walk to the top. Takes 10-15 mins to reach the top of the rock from the car park. Many lovely walks accessible in the forest next to the rocks with equally gorgeous natural views. Couldn’t recommend it more."
Milkshake man38
"We went and mistakenly went the wrong way and chose to walk towards Middleton Top first which in the end was actually great because the view was lovely but I will warn you the hill is brutal if you're not fit or able. It's very steep and it's quite long. On the way there are abandoned things to see (not much but some historical boards to read about the area and the former High peak railway incline) Views are nice and there is a cafe at the top. There is a little disused quarry up there too to have a look at. We then went down again and back to black rocks themselves. We didn't go all the way up to them as it unfortunately started to rain and would have been dangerous but looked great!"
Victoria W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Black Rocks is located near Cromford, just outside Matlock. The most common access point is via the National Stone Centre car park. From there, it's a short but steep 10-15 minute walk up to the rocks themselves.
Yes, there is ample parking at the National Stone Centre car park. They offer free blue badge parking and payment can often be made via an app.
While direct public transport to the immediate vicinity of Black Rocks can be limited, you can reach Cromford or Matlock by bus or train and then potentially arrange a taxi or enjoy a longer walk.
Black Rocks is a key point on the High Peak Trail. You can head north towards Parsley Hay and Buxton, or south down towards Cromford. The surrounding forest also offers many scenic walking paths.
The walk from the car park to the top of Black Rocks is described as short but steep, with loose stones and gravel. It's manageable for most but requires good footwear and a reasonable level of fitness. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Black Rocks itself is free. There may be charges for parking at the National Stone Centre, which can often be paid via an app.
Black Rocks is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible at all times. However, facilities like the cafe may have specific operating hours.
The High Peak Trail is a public footpath and does not have an entrance fee. You can access it freely from various points, including Black Rocks.
There are no age restrictions for visiting Black Rocks. It's a natural site suitable for all ages, though the steep climb might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Yes, Black Rocks is a dog-friendly location, making it a popular spot for dog walkers. Ensure your dog is kept under control, especially near the edges.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the impressive outcrop of Ashover grit, offering superb views of the Derbyshire Dales. You can also find old graffiti etched into the rocks and access to the High Peak Trail. +1
Families can enjoy the views and the surrounding walking trails. The steep climb might require supervision for younger children, but the experience can be very rewarding.
Activities include walking, hiking along the High Peak Trail, enjoying the scenic views, and exploring the natural landscape. Some may find it a good spot for photography. +1
Yes, there are toilets available at the car park near Black Rocks, which is part of the National Stone Centre facilities.
Combine the climb to the rocks with a walk along the High Peak Trail or through the adjacent forest. Enjoy the panoramic views and the sense of history. +1
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
There is a cafe located at the car park near Black Rocks, offering refreshments and snacks.
Yes, picnicking is a great option. You can bring your own food and enjoy it amidst the beautiful scenery, especially if you find a spot along the walking trails.
The nearest dining options would be in the nearby villages of Cromford or Matlock, which offer a range of pubs and cafes.
The cafe typically offers light snacks, hot and cold drinks, and potentially some simple meals. It's a convenient stop for refreshments after your walk.
The cafe at the car park may offer breakfast items, especially if you are visiting for the Saturday morning parkrun, though it's best to check their specific opening times.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the top of the rocks are spectacular, especially during sunrise or sunset. The textures of the gritstone and any etched graffiti also make for interesting shots.
Drone footage of Black Rocks and the surrounding Derbyshire Dales can be stunning, capturing the scale of the landscape and the winding trails.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Generally, photography is permitted for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific rules if you are using professional equipment or drones.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive views. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit