Birchover, Derbyshire - Rowtor Rocks, Limestone Way & Stanton Moor

Today we are in the Peak District National Park at Birchover in Derbyshire. Our run today passes:

Rowtor Rocks

A natural rock formation that was carved out to produce steps, seats and caves in the 17th century by reverend Thomas Eyre who was also a druid who practiced witchcraft at Rowtor Rocks.

Limestone Way

We pick up the Limestone Way, a long distance path we have been on before at the other end at Cave Dale. The route has been in use since at least roman times

Stanton in Peak

Turning way from the Limestone Way we climb up through Stanton in Peak which is lovely and has a pub..

Stanton Moor

We then head over the moor passing the Nine Ladies Stone Circlewhich is 1 of 4 Bronze Age stone circles on the moor. This one dates to the late neolithic / early Bronze Age, its purpose is unknown but it is regarded as a sacred site by modern pagans.

The Route

From Main Street in Birchover head down the hill to the Druid Inn and turn left. Rowtor Rocks is located a short distance down this track on the right. Now continue straight on, at the bottom of the hill take the path left up the rise and past the house. At the stile turn right and follow the path to the far side of the hill then turn left and follow the path to the road. Cross the road and take the path straight on. At Dudwood Lane turn right along the Limestone Way at the bend take the path on the left up the rise and then take the path right to Hermit’s Cave. After an explore backtrack taking the path over the field to Robin Hoods Stride, Our path is on the right as you approach the rocks. Follow the path over the field to Cliff Lane and turn right. Follow the lane taking the path right just before Harthill New Farm and following the path downhill to the B5056. Turn left then right on Birchover Road and climb the hill into Stanton in Peak. Head through the village past the pub and church and then bear left into Lees Road. At the top of the hill take the main path right onto Stanton Moor and follow it. You’ll pass the Nine Ladies Stone circle then over the top and down the far side to Lees Road where we turn right and then left into Barton Hill which we follow back to the starting point