Four Stone Circles and an Amazing Sunset: A Journey Through Ancient Derbyshire

If you’re looking for a mystical, history-filled walk through the Peak District, this route is perfect. Combining prehistoric stone circles, legendary landscapes, and breathtaking sunset views, this adventure takes you through some of Derbyshire’s most fascinating sites.

From the ancient Nine Stones Close and Hermit’s Cave to the Nine Ladies Stone Circle, this walk will transport you back in time while offering stunning photography opportunities, drone-friendly landscapes, and unforgettable sunset views.

Overview of the Walk

• Location: Peak District, Derbyshire, UK
• Starting Point: Harthill Moor, near Robin Hood’s Stride
• Distance: Approx. 3 – 5 miles
  
• Difficulty Level: Moderate (some steep climbs, uneven terrain)
• Time Required: 4 – 5 hours (including stops for photography and exploration)
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for golden-hour lighting and a stunning sunset
• Best For: History lovers, hikers, photographers, and drone enthusiasts

Detailed Route Guide

1. Start at Harthill Moor & Nine Stones Close

📍 Starting Point: Harthill Moor lay-by (near Robin Hood’s Stride)
🔍 What to See:

• Nine Stones Close (The Grey Ladies) – One of Derbyshire’s largest remaining stone circles.
• Robin Hood’s Stride – A striking rock formation steeped in legend.

Begin your journey at Harthill Moor and head towards Nine Stones Close, one of the best-preserved Bronze Age stone circles in Derbyshire. With only four stones still standing, the site exudes an ancient and mystical atmosphere.

Nearby, you’ll see Robin Hood’s Stride, a dramatic gritstone tor. Legend has it that Robin Hood leapt between the large stones, hence its name. It’s also a great spot for a short climb and panoramic views.

2. Walk to the Hermit’s Cave & Cratcliffe Rocks

📍 Distance: 0.5 mile from Nine Stones Close
🔍 What to See:

• Hermit’s Cave – A hidden medieval rock shelter with a carved crucifixion.
• Cratcliffe Rocks – A dramatic outcrop with an ancient settlement.

From Nine Stones Close, follow the path toward Cratcliffe Rocks, where you’ll find the Hermit’s Cave, an intriguing man-made shelter carved into the rock. The crucifixion carving inside dates back centuries and was likely a place of solitary meditation for a medieval hermit.

Above the cave, Cratcliffe Rocks provides one of the best viewpoints in the area. It was once a fortified settlement, with remains of an Iron Age enclosure still visible.

3. Dudwood Stone Circle & Robin Hood’s Stride Climb

📍 Distance: 1 mile from Cratcliffe Rocks
🔍 What to See:

• Dudwood Stone Circle – A lesser-known but atmospheric ancient site.
• Robin Hood’s Stride Summit – A climb with stunning Peak District views.

Continue towards Dudwood Stone Circle, hidden behind Robin Hood’s Stride. This little-known prehistoric site offers a peaceful, mystical experience.

From there, take the opportunity to climb Robin Hood’s Stride. The views from the top stretch across Derbyshire’s rugged moorlands, making it a great spot for a break and some photography.

4. Stanton Moor: Doll Tor & Nine Ladies Stone Circles

📍 Distance: 2 miles from Robin Hood’s Stride
🔍 What to See:

• Doll Tor Stone Circle – A small but enchanting six-stone formation.
• Nine Ladies Stone Circle – A famous prehistoric site with a legendary tale.

The route now takes you toward Stanton Moor, a landscape rich in prehistoric remains. Your first stop is Doll Tor, a small but deeply mystical stone circle. Nestled in woodland, this hidden gem feels untouched by time.

A short walk leads you to the more famous Nine Ladies Stone Circle, where legend tells of nine women turned to stone for dancing on the Sabbath. Nearby, the King Stone represents the fiddler who played for them.

Many visitors report a strange energy here, making it one of the most atmospheric locations in the Peak District.

5. Stanton Moor Trig Point & Sunset Views

📍 Final Stop: Stanton Moor Trig Point
🔍 What to See:

• Panoramic sunset views over the Peak District.
• Ideal spot for drone photography.

As the sun begins to set, head to the Stanton Moor Trig Point. From here, you’ll witness one of the best sunsets in Derbyshire, with golden light washing over the ancient moorland.

This is the perfect time to fly a drone, capturing the mystical stone circles from above as shadows stretch across the landscape.

Alternative Shorter Route (For Limited Time)

If you’re short on time, consider this shorter loop:

• Start at Stanton Moor car park.
• Visit Nine Ladies and Doll Tor.
• Head to Stanton Moor trig point for sunset.

This route still captures the magic of the stone circles while cutting down the hiking distance.

Post-Hike Recommendations

After finishing the walk, you might want to grab a meal or relax nearby. Here are some great local spots:

🍽️ The Druid Inn (Birchover) – A cozy pub near Stanton Moor, perfect for a post-walk meal.

🍽️ Red Lion Inn (Birchover) – A cozy pub near Stanton Moor, perfect for a post-walk meal.

🏡 Stay at: Barn Farm / Camping – Ideal for adventure lovers.

Why This Walk is Special

✅ Combines history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery.
✅ Great for photographers and drone enthusiasts.
✅ Explores some of Derbyshire’s best stone circles.
✅ Features a mix of legends, archaeology, and natural beauty.
✅ Ends with an unforgettable sunset view.

This ancient and magical journey through Derbyshire is a must for adventurers and history lovers alike. Whether you’re drawn by the mysticism of the stone circles, the legends of Robin Hood, or simply the beauty of the Peak District, this walk has something for everyone.