Top 20 Natural Monuments around Hopton
Best natural monuments around Hopton are found within a landscape characterized by its diverse natural features and historical significance. The area, situated near the Peak District, offers a variety of geological formations, ancient sites, and scenic river valleys. These natural monuments provide opportunities to explore upland moorlands, limestone dales, and unique rock outcrops. The region's natural environment supports a range of wildlife and offers varied terrain for outdoor activities.
Best natural monuments around Hopton
- The most popular natural monuments is The River Lathkill in Lathkill Dale, a river that flows through a limestone valley. It is known for its clear water and diverse wildlife, including various bird species and fish.
- Another must-see spot is High Tor and Giddy Edge, a viewpoint with a footpath along its summit. Visitors can expect impressive views over Matlock Bath from this elevated position.
- Visitors also love Nine Ladies Stone Circle, an early Bronze Age stone circle. It is situated in an atmospheric setting on Stanton Moor, with a nearby 'fiddler stone'.
- Hopton is known for its stone circles, river valleys, and viewpoints. The area offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, including historical sites and unique rock formations.
- The natural monuments around Hopton are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 400 photos and over 480 upvotes across various highlights.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
Nine Ladies Stone Circle
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Cork Stone
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High Tor and Giddy Edge
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Stanton Moor Trig Point
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The River Lathkill in Lathkill Dale
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Tips from the Community
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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Lathkill Dale is absolutely gorgeous with it’s crystal clear water that’s so clear it’s like looking into an aquarium, there is an abundance of wildlife with Swans, Ducks, Dippers and Kingfisher’s above the surface with Otters, Brown Trout and rainbow Trout below the surface, be careful if you fancy a sit down on a raised stone as the Otters leave their spraint on them 😁 I nearly sat in one, there are many places to start walking this Dale but a great one is to park in Alport village and walk to Lathkill Dale proper.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there natural monuments around Hopton suitable for families?
Yes, several natural monuments around Hopton are family-friendly. For instance, the Nine Ladies Stone Circle is an early Bronze Age site with an atmospheric setting that children often find intriguing. Another great option is the Cork Stone, a unique rock outcrop with carved steps that kids can enjoy climbing. Stanton Moor Trig Point also offers open moorland and views suitable for family walks.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the natural monuments near Hopton?
The natural monuments around Hopton are rich in wildlife, particularly in areas like The River Lathkill in Lathkill Dale. This crystal-clear river is home to diverse species including various bird species like swans, ducks, dippers, and kingfishers, as well as fish such as brown and rainbow trout. Otters are also known to frequent the area. The limestone grasslands in the dale are vibrant with color in spring and summer, attracting various insects and smaller creatures.
Are there any historical or archaeological natural monuments in the Hopton area?
Absolutely. The Nine Ladies Stone Circle is a significant early Bronze Age stone circle located on Stanton Moor, steeped in ancient history and local legends. The wider Stanton Moor area, where the stone circle is situated, is known for its burial mounds, standing stones, and other archaeological features, making it a truly magical place for those interested in history.
What are some easy walks to natural monuments near Hopton?
For easy walks, consider exploring the trails around Nine Ladies Stone Circle on Stanton Moor, which offers relatively gentle terrain. The area around Stanton Moor Trig Point also provides pleasant, open moorland paths. For more structured easy hikes, you can find routes like 'Harboro' Rocks – Harboro Rocks Trig Point loop' or 'Carsington Water – Carsington Water loop' which are listed in the Easy hikes around Hopton guide.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
Beyond exploring the monuments themselves, the Hopton area offers a range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on routes like the 'Carsington Water – Tissington Trail loop' found in the Cycling around Hopton guide. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as the 'High Peak and Tissington Trail Loop' detailed in the MTB Trails around Hopton guide. Additionally, numerous hiking opportunities are available, from easy strolls to more challenging treks.
Are there any natural monuments with impressive views around Hopton?
Yes, the region boasts several viewpoints. High Tor and Giddy Edge offers spectacular and impressive views over Matlock Bath from its elevated position. The Stanton Moor Trig Point also provides breathtaking views overlooking Bakewell from one side and Matlock from the other, making it a rewarding spot for panoramic vistas.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments near Hopton?
Visitors frequently praise the atmospheric and magical settings of sites like the Nine Ladies Stone Circle. The breathtaking displays of nature and crystal-clear waters of The River Lathkill in Lathkill Dale are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the unique geological formations, such as the climbable Cork Stone, and the stunning panoramic views from elevated points like Stanton Moor Trig Point.
Are there any challenging natural monuments or trails for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a challenge, High Tor and Giddy Edge presents a more demanding experience. The footpath along its summit is unfenced in parts and features significant drops, requiring careful navigation. While offering spectacular views, it is categorized as challenging and not recommended for small children due to its exposed nature.
Can I find natural monuments that are less crowded or considered hidden gems?
While popular spots can get busy, exploring the wider Stanton Moor area beyond the immediate Nine Ladies Stone Circle can reveal quieter spots. The Cork Stone, though popular for climbing, is one of many impressive natural outcrops on Stanton Moor, and exploring the less-trodden paths around these formations might lead to a more secluded experience. Visiting during off-peak times or weekdays can also help avoid crowds.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Hopton?
The natural monuments around Hopton are beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the most vibrant experience. During these seasons, the limestone grasslands in areas like Lathkill Dale are a riot of color, and the weather is generally more favorable for outdoor activities. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer stark, dramatic landscapes, though some paths might be more challenging.
Are there any natural monuments that are particularly good for photography?
Many natural monuments in the area offer excellent photographic opportunities. The atmospheric setting of the Nine Ladies Stone Circle, especially at sunrise or sunset, is highly photogenic. The crystal-clear waters and diverse wildlife of The River Lathkill in Lathkill Dale provide stunning nature shots. Additionally, the panoramic views from High Tor and Giddy Edge and Stanton Moor Trig Point are perfect for landscape photography.
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