Best mountain peaks around Bradbourne are characterized by gentle hills and elevated points, offering scenic views just outside the Peak District National Park. This area provides accessible opportunities for walking and exploring the Derbyshire Dales. The landscape features a mix of open fields, wooded areas, and modest elevations, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. Visitors can find rewarding hiking experiences across these natural features.
Last updated: October 15, 2026
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The car park is free for National Trust members. I love climbing but I don't like heights....confusing I know! I really enjoyed this short climb but I found myself on a small scramble which got my blood pumping a little!
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Car park isn’t free but costs £6.60 for the day or £4 for 4 hours
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Nice and easy with great views. Took the wrong route down and it was VERY steep :)
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19th century pleasure ground which exploited the dramatic qualities of the Derwent valley. Peter Arkwright of Willersley Castle enclosed the grounds c 1860 and constructed pedestrian paths from a new entrance on the south side approached from the bridge to Matlock Bath railway station. The entrance from Starkholmes Road was retained and could be used by carriages. A pathway was formed through Fern Cave (scheduled ancient monument) and another on a narrow ledge along part of the cliff face. In 1879 the grounds were leased to the Matlock and High Tor Recreation Grounds Company Ltd and Milner of London was retained to supervise landscaping. Arkwright's Grand Walk, also used by carriages, was created, leading south to the summit from a gateway in Pig Tree Lane, now Pic Tor Lane. A refreshment room was erected near the summit, tennis and quoit or skittle grounds were constructed close to a modified southern entrance and additional paths put in with a broad flight of steps.
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There are eight transmitter masts visible on the top of the hill (one of them is shorter).
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Car Park has been reopened with an automatic electronic gate that's only open between set times March-Oct 8am - 7pm Nov-Feb 8am - 5pm
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The footpath along the summit is commonly known as Giddy Edge, unfenced and not recommended for small children . There is a small metal handrail afixed to the inside edge (of the cliff) totally spectacular.
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While Bradbourne is known for gentle hills rather than towering mountains, you can explore several rewarding elevated points. These include Haven Hill and Wigber Low, which offer scenic walking routes. Further afield, but still accessible, are Hognaston Winn and Madge Hill, providing expansive views over the Derbyshire countryside and Carsington Water. The most popular peak is Thorpe Cloud, a distinctive conical hill in Dovedale.
For breathtaking vistas, Thorpe Cloud is highly recommended, offering 360-degree panoramic views over the River Dove, Bunster Hill, and Ilam. Haven Hill provides expansive views over Bradbourne, Parwich, and Minninglow. Hognaston Winn offers rewarding vantage points over Carsington Water, and Madge Hill gives excellent views towards the Weaver Hills. Additionally, High Tor and Giddy Edge provides impressive views over Matlock Bath, and Stanton Moor Trig Point overlooks Bakewell and Matlock.
Thorpe Cloud is a distinctive conical hill in Dovedale, offering a short but steep climb rewarded with stunning 360-degree views. It's a very popular summit, so it can get busy. While the path to the very summit has sometimes been closed due to erosion, the path around the hill still offers spectacular views. It's a must-see spot for many visitors to the wider Peak District area.
Yes, the area around Bradbourne is characterized by gentle hills and modest elevations, making it suitable for family-friendly walks. Stanton Moor Trig Point is noted as family-friendly, offering a steady hike on moorland with a Bronze Age stone circle. Hognaston Winn also features well-maintained paths suitable for various fitness levels, including families. The overall landscape of open fields and wooded areas provides accessible opportunities for all.
Many trails around Bradbourne's peaks are dog-friendly, especially those in open access areas. For example, the circular walks that include Haven Hill and Wigber Low are generally suitable for dogs. When visiting popular spots like Thorpe Cloud or Bunster Hill, it's advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in busy areas. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
The area around Bradbourne is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer bring wildflowers and lush greenery, making the views from peaks like Bunster Hill particularly vibrant. Autumn offers beautiful foliage. Even in good weather around the summer solstice, a rare 'double sunset' phenomenon can be observed against Thorpe Cloud. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change.
For walks to Thorpe Cloud and other Dovedale peaks, parking is available in the Dovedale car parks. However, these can get very busy. An alternative is to park in nearby Ilam and approach Bunster Hill and Thorpe Cloud from that direction, which can offer a quieter experience, especially early in the day.
The landscape around Bradbourne is characterized by quiet limestone countryside, gentle hills, and modest elevations. You'll find a mix of open fields, wooded areas, and elevated points that provide scenic views. It's an excellent starting point for exploring the Derbyshire Dales and the southern part of the Peak District, offering accessible opportunities for enjoying the natural beauty of the English countryside.
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views from summits like Thorpe Cloud and Bunster Hill. The sense of reward after a climb, the diverse scenery, and the opportunity to explore ancient sites like the Bronze Age stone circle at Stanton Moor Trig Point are also highly appreciated. The area's mix of accessible walks and more challenging ascents caters to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.
Beyond hiking, the Bradbourne area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, road cycling routes, and mountain biking trails. For running, explore options like the Carsington Water circular run. Road cyclists can enjoy routes such as the Ilam Village and Monument – Thorpe Climb from Dovedale loop. Mountain bikers have trails like the High Peak and Tissington Trail Loop available.
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity of Bradbourne's elevated points. Popular options include the Carsington Water circular run, which is a moderate 12km route. You can also find shorter, easier runs like the Carsington Water loop from Hognaston CP, or more challenging ones like the Harboro Rocks loop from Brassington CP. These routes allow you to experience the scenic landscape at a faster pace.
Absolutely. The Bradbourne area offers a range of road cycling routes that incorporate its scenic, elevated terrain. You can explore routes such as the Ilam Village and Monument – Thorpe Climb from Dovedale loop, which is a moderate 48km ride. Other options include the Tissington Hall – Ashbourne Town Centre loop or the Hartington Farm Shop & Café – Heathcote Mere loop, all offering a chance to cycle through the beautiful Derbyshire countryside.
Yes, mountain biking enthusiasts will find trails around Bradbourne. A notable option is the High Peak and Tissington Trail Loop, a moderate 47km route. Other trails include the Tissington Village – Carsington Water loop and the Istrian stone hut at Parsley Hay – Hartington Signal Box loop. These trails provide varied terrain for an engaging mountain biking experience.


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