Best mountain peaks around Rowsley are characteristic of the rolling countryside and dramatic landscapes of the Derbyshire Peak District. Rowsley, located on the edge of the Peak District National Park, provides access to several elevated points and moorlands. These areas offer impressive views and unique features for visitors exploring the region. The diverse landscape includes historical sites, natural monuments, and challenging trails.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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Following the edge is a lot less busy than other routes around this area, late September sees the deer enter rutting season.
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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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Alas, the previously awesome views from the trig point are long gone due to tree growth. Today the trig point is a waypoint only; for views head over to Black Rocks.
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Bolehill (Cromford Moor) is 323 metres high and is one of the 95 Ethels (Peak District Hills).
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a big hill that strikes out in the landscape when viewed from monsal head or dale- the site of an iron age hillfort that was excavated in the late 2000s/early 2010s. a mass burial containing women and children was discovered at the site in 2011, dating back to 440-390 BCE.
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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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Rowsley offers access to several notable elevated points and moorlands. Among the most popular are High Tor and Giddy Edge, known for its thrilling footpath and impressive views over Matlock Bath. Another favorite is Stanton Moor Trig Point, which features a Bronze Age stone circle and offers panoramic views overlooking Bakewell and Matlock.
Yes, Stanton Moor Trig Point is considered family-friendly. It's a majestic upland area with a Bronze Age stone circle, offering beautiful views and opportunities to spot wildlife, making it a magical place for exploration.
You can explore Fin Cop Hillfort, a significant historical site offering expansive views across Derbyshire moorland fields. Additionally, Stanton Moor Trig Point is home to a Bronze Age stone circle, adding an element of ancient spirituality to the landscape. Peak Tor (also known as Pillow Hill) is also believed to have been an early Celtic settlement.
The peaks around Rowsley offer diverse and impressive views. From Stanton Moor Trig Point, you can see Bakewell and Matlock. High Tor and Giddy Edge provides spectacular views over Matlock Bath. White Edge offers expansive vistas across the gritstone escarpment, backed by Big Moor and dropping into the Derwent Valley. Peak Tor provides picturesque views back towards Rowsley, Matlock, and Haddon Hall.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the footpath along the summit of High Tor and Giddy Edge is known for its thrilling and exposed nature, featuring an unfenced path with a metal handrail. It's considered a challenging experience. Many of the moorland walks, including those around Stanton Moor Trig Point and Fin Cop Hillfort, also offer challenging sections.
Beyond hiking the peaks themselves, Rowsley is an excellent base for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including easy, moderate, and difficult options, such as the High Peak Trail loop to Chatsworth House. There are also mountain biking trails, like the Deer at Chatsworth Park loop. For more hiking, explore routes like the Nine Ladies Stone Circle & Stanton Moor loop. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Rowsley, MTB Trails around Rowsley, and Hiking around Rowsley guides.
White Edge presents a less-traveled trail that runs parallel to the more popular Curbar and Froggatt Edge trails. Incorporating White Edge into a circuit walk allows visitors to enjoy double the views and edges, often with fewer crowds, making for a rewarding hiking experience with expansive vistas.
Bolehill Trig Point stands at 323 meters and is located south of Black Rocks. The area is popular for its numerous walking trails, particularly those winding through the Big Plantation and across Cromford Moor, offering scenic routes for hikers.
Yes, incorporating White Edge into a circuit walk is a great way to experience double the views and 'edges,' as it runs parallel to the popular Curbar and Froggatt Edge trails. This allows for a more extended and varied hiking experience.
The moorlands around Rowsley are rich in wildlife. Stanton Moor Trig Point is noted for its diverse wildlife. Fin Cop Hillfort is also a good place to watch for raptors, with sightings of Kestrels, Goshawks, and Buzzards reported.
For more walking routes, you can explore the Hiking around Rowsley guide, which features various trails including the Nine Ladies Stone Circle & Stanton Moor loop. Additionally, the Visit Peak District website offers a Rowsley Circular Walk.


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