Nine Ladies Stone Circle Stanton Moor
Ancient Bronze Age stone circle and moorland walks with stunning Peak District views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Nine Ladies Stone Circle Stanton Moor
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient Bronze Age stone circle and moorland walks with stunning Peak District views.
"A place of beauty and calm where ghosts seem to walk the paths."
🚗 Parking Advice
Use the official car park near active stone works to avoid blocking local roads. :car:
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Paths can be uneven and muddy; good walking boots are a must for exploring the moor. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nine Ladies Stone Circle
Stanton Moor
An ancient Bronze Age stone circle, steeped in legend and offering a serene spot for reflection.
Cork Stone
Stanton Moor
A distinctive, large gritstone boulder offering panoramic views of the surrounding Peak District landscape.
Stanton Moor Trig Point
Stanton Moor
Reach the summit for breathtaking 360-degree views, a rewarding stop on any moorland walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Navigating Stanton Moor's Paths
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Advice
Use the official car park near active stone works to avoid blocking local roads. :car:
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Paths can be uneven and muddy; good walking boots are a must for exploring the moor.
🗺️ Navigation Tools
Consider using Ordnance Survey maps or apps for easier navigation across the moorland.
☀️ Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst the ancient stones or with scenic views; perfect for a relaxed day out.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Advice
Use the official car park near active stone works to avoid blocking local roads. :car:
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Paths can be uneven and muddy; good walking boots are a must for exploring the moor.
🗺️ Navigation Tools
Consider using Ordnance Survey maps or apps for easier navigation across the moorland.
☀️ Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst the ancient stones or with scenic views; perfect for a relaxed day out.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, but keep them under control, especially near livestock.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Stanton Moor for its beautiful countryside, historical significance, and the serene atmosphere of the Nine Ladies Stone Circle. It's a popular spot for walks, offering great views and a sense of peace. However, some find the lack of historical information on-site disappointing, and navigating the narrow roads can be challenging.
"Stanton Moor contains cairns, burial mounds, old quarries and at least three stone circles. Nine Ladies stone circle is the only one we found, and I suspect actually still present. The whole area is beautiful with great views all around. We walked and explored for a couple of hours, sat by the stones and had a great time.
The maps showed dozens of historical landmarks, but once in the site you'll find no more information. Only Nine Ladies had it's own sign. I do like a bit more history and info.
The roads are tiny and narrow. Look out for the official car park next to the active stone works to avoid blocking their local roads."
David
"Lovely walk up to the nine ladies stone circle we went on a weekend so can get busy. There are plenty of other walks in the area so we'll worth the day out."
Christina Brown
"WHERE is the car park with a quick walk to the stones? I couldn't find it...walked up through the lovely woods, quarry ti the left, and at the top Google maps said 45mins left so pretty sure went wrong somewhere"
Evalynne Charmer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Nine Ladies Stone Circle is located on Stanton Moor, near Birchover in Derbyshire. The most common access point is via a walk from the village of Birchover. There's an official car park near active stone works, which is recommended to avoid blocking local roads. From the car park, it's approximately a mile walk to the stone circle.
Yes, there is an official car park available. It's advised to use the designated parking areas, particularly those near the active stone works, to prevent obstructing local routes.
Public transport options to Stanton Moor are limited. It's best accessed by car. If relying on public transport, you would likely need to get to a nearby town like Matlock and then arrange local taxi services or a long walk.
The roads leading to Stanton Moor, especially the smaller lanes around Birchover, can be very narrow and winding. Drive with caution and be mindful of oncoming traffic.
While cycling is possible on some of the moorland tracks, the terrain can be challenging and uneven. It's more suited for experienced mountain bikers. Road cycling to the area requires navigating narrow country lanes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the Nine Ladies Stone Circle or explore Stanton Moor. It is a public access area, and entry is free.
Stanton Moor is an open moorland and is accessible at all times. There are no set opening or closing hours. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for the Nine Ladies Stone Circle. Access to the site and the surrounding moorland is free for all visitors.
While Stanton Moor is technically accessible at night, it is not recommended due to lack of lighting, uneven terrain, and potential safety concerns. Visiting during daylight hours is best.
There are no specific restrictions on visiting the stone circle itself, but visitors are asked to be respectful of the ancient site and the natural environment. Avoid climbing on the stones or leaving litter.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Stanton Moor is rich in history, featuring other prehistoric sites like cairns, burial mounds, and old quarries. You can also find the Cork Stone and the Stanton Moor Trig Point, offering great views.
From the recommended car park, the walk to the Nine Ladies Stone Circle is approximately one mile. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on your pace.
The walk is generally considered moderate. It involves walking over moorland, which can be uneven and sometimes muddy. Sturdy footwear is essential.
There are no public toilets or cafes directly at Stanton Moor or the Nine Ladies Stone Circle. You'll find facilities in nearby villages like Birchover.
The Nine Ladies Stone Circle is believed to be from the Bronze Age. Local legend says the stones represent nine ladies who were turned to stone for dancing on a Sunday.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographs. The soft light enhances the ancient atmosphere of the stones.
Yes, the Stanton Moor Trig Point and the area around the Cork Stone offer excellent panoramic views of the Peak District, perfect for landscape photography.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check current local bylaws and guidelines regarding drone operation in national parks and protected areas before flying. Always fly responsibly and respect privacy.
Visitors often capture wide-angle shots of the stone circle, close-ups of the weathered stones, and landscape photos incorporating the moorland and sky. Astrophotography can also be stunning on clear nights.
Generally, there are no specific photography restrictions for personal use. However, commercial photography may require permission. Always be mindful of other visitors and the historical significance of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The open moorland provides plenty of space for children to explore and burn energy. Bringing a picnic is a great idea, as there are no facilities on the moor itself. +1 The legend of the Nine Ladies can also spark children's imaginations, making the visit both fun and educational. Remember to pack snacks, drinks, and ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear for the uneven terrain. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
The sense of history and the expansive views can be deeply rewarding. While the main paths are generally safe, it's always wise for solo hikers to inform someone of their plans and carry a fully charged phone. The community aspect, though not overt, is present with fellow walkers often sharing the trails, creating a sense of shared appreciation for the landscape. 📸 Photographers
+1 The Cork Stone and the trig point offer stunning panoramic vistas of the Peak District, perfect for landscape shots. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the stone circle and a telephoto lens for capturing distant details. The changing weather on the moor can also add a dynamic element to your photographs. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Stanton Moor's Prehistoric Landscape
+1 Beyond the Nine Ladies, the moor is dotted with numerous other ancient sites, including burial mounds, cairns, and other, less visible, stone circles. These remnants offer a tangible connection to the people who inhabited this landscape thousands of years ago. Walking across Stanton Moor is like stepping back in time. The open moorland, with its heather and gritstone outcrops, provides a dramatic backdrop for these ancient monuments. The presence of old quarries also tells a story of human activity on the moor over centuries.
It's a place that invites contemplation and a sense of wonder about the past. The relatively sparse signage means that exploring these sites often feels like a personal discovery, guided by maps and a sense of adventure. Walking and Hiking Routes on Stanton Moor
This route typically covers around 3.1 miles (5 km) and can be completed in a few hours, making it suitable for a half-day excursion. Some routes are even considered toddler-friendly, though carrying younger children might be necessary on certain sections. For those seeking more challenging hikes, Stanton Moor can be integrated into longer Peak District trails. The terrain can be varied, with some paths being well-trodden and others more rugged and exposed. It's essential to wear appropriate footwear, such as sturdy walking boots, as the ground can be uneven and muddy, especially after rainfall.
The reward for your efforts is often breathtaking panoramic views across the Derbyshire Dales. +1
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