Best natural monuments around Callow include a variety of geological formations and scenic viewpoints. This guide highlights natural features that offer opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities. The area features prominent hills, river valleys, and unique rock formations. These natural sites provide diverse landscapes for visitors to experience.
Last updated: June 26, 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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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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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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High Tor is the last place in England where eagles nested and is a stunning limestone escarpment which is the site of former lead mines.
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The area around Callow is characterized by prominent hills, scenic river valleys, and unique rock formations. You can find distinctive conical hills like Thorpe Cloud, impressive natural outcrops such as Cork Stone, and river features like the Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove.
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. The Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove offer a fun crossing and beautiful scenery. Cork Stone, with its carved steps, is also popular for families. Additionally, Stanton Moor Trig Point provides a majestic area of upland with a Bronze Age stone circle, suitable for family exploration.
For breathtaking views, consider climbing Thorpe Cloud, which offers panoramic vistas over the River Dove, Bunster Hill, and Ilam. Another excellent spot is Stanton Moor Trig Point, providing views overlooking Bakewell and Matlock. High Tor and Giddy Edge also offer very impressive views over Matlock Bath.
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes like the 'Carsington Water circular' or 'Brassington Village – Golconda Lead Mine Ruins loop'. For cycling enthusiasts, there are MTB trails such as the 'High Peak and Tissington Trail Loop' and road cycling routes like the 'View of Carsington Water – Longcliffe Descent loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking, MTB, and road cycling guides for the Callow area.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the climb to the summit of Thorpe Cloud is short but steep, rewarding hikers with beautiful 360-degree views. High Tor and Giddy Edge also present a challenging trail along a ridge with significant drops, offering spectacular views.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning scenery and the opportunities for exploration. The unique experience of crossing the Dovedale Stepping Stones and admiring the ancient ash woodland is a highlight. Many also enjoy the sense of achievement and panoramic views from summits like Thorpe Cloud and the intriguing rock formations like Cork Stone.
While specific data isn't available, generally, spring and early autumn offer pleasant weather for walking and exploring the natural monuments, with fewer crowds than peak summer. Visiting early on a weekday morning can also provide a more tranquil experience at popular spots like Dovedale.
Yes, Stanton Moor Trig Point is notable for its Bronze Age stone circle at its heart, giving the moorland a connection to ancient spirituality. This adds a historical dimension to the natural beauty of the area.
Yes, there are easy walking options. For instance, the 'Roadford Lake Dam – Carsington Water loop' is an easy hiking route. While some natural monuments involve climbs, the paths around them, such as the path around Thorpe Cloud, can still offer spectacular views without requiring a summit ascent.
The area's diverse landscapes, including ancient ash woodlands and wildflower-rich grasslands around the River Dove, support abundant wildlife. Stanton Moor is also known for its great deal of wildlife, making it a magical place for nature observation.
You can explore detailed routes and trails by checking the komoot guides for specific activities. For example, the Hiking around Callow guide provides information on various hiking routes, including their distances and difficulty grades.


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