If you want to take in the scenery at Ladybower Reservoir, but want a more strenuous hike, a moderately challenging 5.5km route up to Bamford Edge can be completed. Bamford Edge provides incredible views over the Upper Derwent Valley with the Derwent and Ladybower reservoirs sitting majestically in the countryside below. There are plenty of vantage points to enjoy above the reservoirs or alternatively you can cycle and walk along the waterside. placeholder image
If you want to take in the scenery at Ladybower Reservoir, but want a more strenuous hike, a moderately challenging 5.5km route up to Bamford Edge can be completed. Bamford Edge provides incredible views over the Upper Derwent Valley with the Derwent and Ladybower reservoirs sitting majestically in the countryside below. There are plenty of vantage points to enjoy above the reservoirs or alternatively you can cycle and walk along the waterside.

11 viewpoints that prove Derbyshire is England's scenic powerhouse

Emma Walker
By Emma Walker

Editor

Published 21st Jul 2025, 10:29 GMT

Explore Derbyshire's breathtaking summer viewpoints within an hour of Derby, offering natural beauty and varied trails.

Derbyshire and the Peak District offer stunning viewpoints perfect for a day out from Derby.

All these spots are within an hour's drive of Derby, offering natural beauty, varied trails, and places to eat nearby.

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Whether you're after a quiet escape or a hike with a view, Derbyshire has day-out options that hit the mark.

Head to the Curbar Gap car park in the Hope Valley to try some lovely walks taking in Froggatt Edge, Curbar Edge and White Edge for plenty of fantastic views. There's also a great coffee van in the car park if you're lucky! You can also start out from the car park near the ever-popular Grouse Inn. Curbar, Froggatt and Baslow Edge is a gritstone escarpment with fantastic views across the Derwent Valley, including the Chatsworth Estate. Many photographs are taken at this iconic location and is a favourite with locals and tourists. The mostly flat footpath is easily accessed from the car park at the top of the hill.

5. Curbar Gap

Head to the Curbar Gap car park in the Hope Valley to try some lovely walks taking in Froggatt Edge, Curbar Edge and White Edge for plenty of fantastic views. There's also a great coffee van in the car park if you're lucky! You can also start out from the car park near the ever-popular Grouse Inn. Curbar, Froggatt and Baslow Edge is a gritstone escarpment with fantastic views across the Derwent Valley, including the Chatsworth Estate. Many photographs are taken at this iconic location and is a favourite with locals and tourists. The mostly flat footpath is easily accessed from the car park at the top of the hill. Photo: JP

From Monsal Head you have a spectacular view of the River Wye meandering through the picturesque Monsal Dale. The famous Monsal Viaduct on the trail below is one of the most photographed sites in the Peak District and is popular with families who enjoy walking and cycling along the disused railway line.

6. Monsal Head

From Monsal Head you have a spectacular view of the River Wye meandering through the picturesque Monsal Dale. The famous Monsal Viaduct on the trail below is one of the most photographed sites in the Peak District and is popular with families who enjoy walking and cycling along the disused railway line. Photo: jason chadwick

Upper Burbage Bridge Car Park. The route starts and finishes at The Fox House in Longshaw. The route goes to Burbage Rocks and Upper Burbage Bridge, then up Higger Tor to the Carl Wark Iron Age hillfort and back to the pub, which is open with a reduced garden menu. Book at www.vintageinn.co.uk/restaurants/yorkshire/thefoxhouselongshaw Distance: 4 to 5 miles Time: 2 to 3 hours. A wheelchair accessible gate gives access to the view point with a seat so you can sit and enjoy this fantastic scenery.

7. Higger Tor and Carl Wark Iron Age Fort and Upper Burbage Bridge

Upper Burbage Bridge Car Park. The route starts and finishes at The Fox House in Longshaw. The route goes to Burbage Rocks and Upper Burbage Bridge, then up Higger Tor to the Carl Wark Iron Age hillfort and back to the pub, which is open with a reduced garden menu. Book at www.vintageinn.co.uk/restaurants/yorkshire/thefoxhouselongshaw Distance: 4 to 5 miles Time: 2 to 3 hours. A wheelchair accessible gate gives access to the view point with a seat so you can sit and enjoy this fantastic scenery. | Chris Etchells

The Grouse Inn, Longshaw. Park at the pub and enjoy a drink on the patio overlooking the valley. The views are stunning! There is access to the pub, although there are no disabled toilets available. Perfect for a more accessible route to see the views.

8. The Grouse Inn, Longshaw

The Grouse Inn, Longshaw. Park at the pub and enjoy a drink on the patio overlooking the valley. The views are stunning! There is access to the pub, although there are no disabled toilets available. Perfect for a more accessible route to see the views. Photo: Google

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