WHY GO
Cross Stanton Moor to a Bronze Age stone circle and nearby King Stone, surrounded by heather, woodland and wide moorland skies.
Nine Ladies is a quiet encounter with Derbyshire's deep past. The low stones sit on Stanton Moor among a much wider Bronze Age landscape of cairns and barrows, with the King Stone a short distance away. Despite the name, English Heritage records a fallen tenth stone within the circle. The old tale of nine dancers turned to stone adds folklore to the setting; the archaeology, heather and open skies give you plenty to contemplate on the walk back.
Before you set out
Details and coordinates can be incomplete or out of date. Check current access, conditions, weather and your route with the site operator before travelling. This is not live navigation or emergency guidance.
Plan a safe visit
Editorial review: 30 October 2026. Conditions may change.
Approach
Use the formal car park outside Birchover, then follow the public footpaths across Stanton Moor for about 1.5 km to the circle. Allow approximately thirty minutes one way at a steady pace, with more time for mud, gates and stiles. English Heritage describes a shorter Lees Road approach, but warns that the narrow roads next to the moor are unsuitable for parking.
Walking time from arrival (one way)
30 minutes (approximate)
Terrain & steps
Footpaths cross fields and woodland, with gates, stiles and uneven surfaces. Moorland conditions may be wet underfoot.
Accessibility
English Heritage warns that the paths and stiles can be challenging for wheelchair users and buggies. Step-free access to the circle is unable to confirm at this time.
Access & restrictions
Free entry; open at reasonable times during daylight hours. Camping, smoking, vaping, barbecues and naked flames are prohibited. Dogs on leads are welcome and should be kept under control near grazing animals. Do not park on the narrow roads adjacent to Stanton Moor.
Facilities
No facilities at the stone circle. Formal parking is available outside Birchover.
Seasonal considerations
Visit in daylight. Exposed moorland and uneven paths call for sturdy footwear, especially after rain.
Sources & further reading
The references behind this entry. Use current site guidance for visiting arrangements.