Best natural monuments around Brassington include a variety of geological formations and scenic landscapes within the Derbyshire Dales. This area is characterized by its dolomitic limestone features and historical significance, offering insights into ancient human habitation. Visitors can explore unique rock outcrops, picturesque river valleys, and sites with archaeological importance. The region provides diverse opportunities for outdoor exploration amidst its natural beauty.
Last updated: April 28, 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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Cork Stone is one of several interesting standing stones on Stanton Moor. It is 5m tall piece of weathered sandstone located above the remnants of a quarry site. At some point hollowed out steps and metal rings were added to allow people (kids and their grownups!) to climb to the top
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This stone circle from the Bronze Age, built thousands of years before the beginning of the Christian era, is neither as large nor nearly as famous as the legendary "Stonehenge" on the plains near Amesbury (which is, after all, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; if you're interested, see =>> https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/960007 ), but this one can be visited without much tourist hustle and bustle, and it also has a much more interesting-sounding name...
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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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Try and get there as early as possible, especially if the weather is nice!
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Visitors frequently enjoy Thorpe Cloud, a distinctive conical hill offering panoramic views. Another favorite is the picturesque Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove, known for its scenic crossing and fossil-rich area. The ancient Nine Ladies Stone Circle also draws many for its historical and atmospheric setting.
Yes, several natural monuments are family-friendly. The Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove offer a fun experience for all ages. The Nine Ladies Stone Circle provides an engaging historical visit, and the Cork Stone on Stanton Moor is a unique rock formation with carved steps that kids often enjoy climbing.
The area around Brassington is rich in dolomitic limestone formations. You'll encounter unique rock outcrops like The Cork Stone on Stanton Moor, which is a weathered sandstone outcrop. Other notable geological sites include Harborough Rocks and Rainster Rocks, both featuring distinctive dolomitic limestone formations.
Absolutely. The Nine Ladies Stone Circle is an early Bronze Age stone circle with local legends. Harborough Rocks also holds significant historical value, with evidence of Bronze and Iron Age human occupation. Rainster Rocks is scheduled under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act due to a well-preserved Romano-British settlement and field system.
Visiting during spring or early autumn often provides pleasant weather for exploration. Weekdays, especially outside of school holidays, tend to be less crowded, allowing for a more serene experience at popular spots like the Dovedale Stepping Stones. Some areas, like Thorpe Cloud, can get extremely busy, so choosing your moment carefully is advised.
The area offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find excellent cycling routes, including the 'Carsington Water family loop' and 'Carsington Water – High Peak Trail loop', which you can explore further in the Cycling around Brassington guide. For gravel biking, routes like 'Carsington Water – Tissington Trail loop' are available in the Gravel biking around Brassington guide. Running enthusiasts can find trails such as the 'Carsington Water circular run' and 'Harboro Rocks loop' in the Running Trails around Brassington guide.
Yes, Thorpe Cloud is renowned for its breathtaking 360-degree views over the River Dove, Bunster Hill, and Ilam. Additionally, Stanton Moor Trig Point offers majestic views overlooking Bakewell and Matlock from the edge of the moor.
Stanton Moor is a majestic upland area known for its Bronze Age stone circle at its heart. It offers breathtaking views from its edges and is celebrated for its connections to ancient spirituality. The moorland also provides opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, making it a magical place to explore.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse experiences offered, from the geological wonders and ancient historical sites to scenic hiking spots. The unique features, insights into natural and human history, and opportunities for outdoor exploration and enjoyment within the stunning Peak District landscape are frequently highlighted.
The Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove offer picturesque scenery, especially in the middle of the stones where you can capture the stunning landscape. Thorpe Cloud provides dramatic panoramic views, ideal for landscape photography, particularly around sunrise or sunset.
Yes, the Nine Ladies Stone Circle is steeped in legend, with the stones said to be ladies turned to stone for dancing on a Sunday, accompanied by a 'fiddler stone'. Thorpe Cloud is also known for a rare 'double sunset' phenomenon visible around the summer solstice from nearby Lin Dale.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Brassington: