Wharncliffe Woods

One spark is all it takes to devastate our natural landscapes. Do not light campfires or single-use, disposable BBQs in the nation’s forests.

Visitor information

The ideal location for both mountain biking and long walks

The Wharncliffe Woods steep terrain creates a popular venue for both mountain biking and strenuous walking, without going to the Peak District!

The Woods have a rich post industrial history with many quarry workings hidden within the woods. Amongst the trees, numerous streams meander down the hillside.

 

At a glance

  • Mountain biking
  • Walking trails
  • Horse riding

Things to do

Wharncliffe Woods is a popular destination for mountain bikers. It’s a beautiful spot with some challenging natural trails. Please bear in mind there are no official waymarked, maintained trails, so It’s really important that riders make sure their experience and equipment matches the terrain they’re riding.

Please don’t build unauthorised trail features in the woods. They can affect the natural landscape and be dangerous as riders can have a wide range of abilities.

Horse riders are welcome to explore our network of paths with a valid permit.

Permits can be bought by purchasing a Membership, which includes your horse riding permit plus other benefits.

The permit allows you to ride in a variety of woodlands including Wharncliffe Woods, Sherwood Pines, Blidworth Woods, Haywood Oaks and Matlock Moor.

Advice on riding in each wood can be obtained by contacting the local team.

The revenue from the permit goes back into improving our equestrian facilities and services in the above woodlands.

Nearby forests

Wood

With paths that twist and turn through the woodland, great views and open spaces, Wombwell Wood provides the perfect setting for your next outdoor adventure or even a stroll with your dog.

A birdwatchers paradise, the ancient woodland is also an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife including skylarks, meadow pipits, woodpeckers and kestrels. Bluebells can often be spotted among the trees, making spring in the woodland a real treat.

Whitwell Wood

The wood has a very high nature conservation status and it is has a wide range of flora including over 20 species that are indicators of ancient woodland. There are also numerous features of archaeological interest.

Visit the wood to discover the Ginny Spring Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It has been designated for its rich flora including some species rare in Derbyshire.

 

Walking trail at Forty Acre Piece

Comprising of seven coniferous woodlands, Matlock Moors is not short of great walking opportunities.

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