Bamford: A Pretty Hope Valley Village with Stunning Views
The pretty village of Bamford is beautifully located in the Hope Valley, underneath the dramatic heights of Bamford Edge, on the banks of the River Derwent. From here the river flows into the Upper Derwent Valley and feeds Ladybower, Derwent and Howden Reservoirs.
Planning a visit? Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from top attractions and walking routes to practical tips for making the most of your trip to this beautiful Derbyshire village.
The Village
Bamford is a small village but well worth exploring. It has some lovely old buildings, including the picturesque parish church of St John the Baptist, which was built in 1860.
Bamford Mill has now been converted into residential flats, but it is an impressive building, built in 1782. It was used first as a corn mill, then a cotton mill, employing more than 130 people at the height of its industry. It closed in the 1990s.
Bamford is also proudly home to the UK’s first community-owned and managed pub, The Anglers’ Rest, which runs as a café, Post Office and gift shop as well as a pub. A little further out of the village is the Yorkshire Bridge Inn, beautifully located on the banks of Ladybower Reservoir. It serves great pub food and real ales.
Ladybower Reservoir
Bamford has the distinction of being the closest village to Ladybower Reservoir. Between them, the Upper Derwent Valley reservoirs cover almost 200 square kilometres, and can hold a staggering 464 billion litres of water. They are surrounded by the most stunning scenery, straddling the Peak District counties of Derbyshire and Yorkshire, and the area is superb for walking, cycling and riding.
Walks in the Area
Gentle Walk Around Ladybower Reservoir
Challenging Walk on Derwent Edge
Walk from Bamford Train Station
Cycle Trails
Cycle Ride Around Derwent and Howden Reservoirs
Click here for a cycle ride around Derwent and Howden Reservoirs →
MTB Trail Around the Upper Derwent Valley
Click here for an MTB trail around the Upper Derwent Valley →
Where to Stay in Bamford
Bamford offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From traditional pubs with rooms to charming guest houses and self-catering cottages, there is something for every visitor.
Accommodation Options
- The Anglers’ Rest – community-owned pub with rooms
- The Yorkshire Bridge Inn – traditional pub with rooms
- Charming guest houses and B&Bs
- Self-catering cottages in the surrounding countryside
- Camping and caravan sites nearby
Top Tips for Your Bamford Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the reservoirs and edges. Autumn brings stunning colours to the valley and moorland.
- Getting There: Bamford is accessible by car via the A6013, and has a railway station with regular services from Sheffield and Manchester.
- Parking: There is parking available in the village and at the Ladybower Reservoir car parks. These can fill up quickly on weekends.
- Don’t Miss: The dramatic views from Bamford Edge, and a visit to the UK’s first community-owned pub, The Anglers’ Rest.
- Explore: The Upper Derwent Valley offers superb walking, cycling and riding opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bamford
Is Bamford worth visiting?
Absolutely! Bamford is a beautiful village in the Hope Valley, offering stunning views from Bamford Edge, easy access to Ladybower Reservoir, and a welcoming community feel.
What is Bamford famous for?
Bamford is famous for its location beneath Bamford Edge, its proximity to Ladybower Reservoir, and for being home to the UK’s first community-owned pub, The Anglers’ Rest.
What is the history of Bamford Mill?
Bamford Mill was built in 1782 and was first used as a corn mill, then a cotton mill, employing more than 130 people at its height. It closed in the 1990s and has now been converted into residential flats.
How big is Ladybower Reservoir?
Ladybower Reservoir is part of the Upper Derwent Valley reservoirs, which together cover almost 200 square kilometres and can hold 464 billion litres of water.
Is there a train station in Bamford?
Yes, Bamford has a railway station with regular services from Sheffield and Manchester on the Hope Valley line.
Are there good walks near Bamford?
Yes! Popular walks include gentle routes around Ladybower Reservoir, challenging hikes on Derwent Edge, and walks from Bamford train station.
For more information about visiting the area, explore the official Peak District National Park visiting guide and plan your adventure in this remarkable part of Derbyshire.
ℹ️ Tourist Information
- Castleton Visitor Centre 3.7 miles
🥾 Nearby Walks
- Bamford and Ladybower Reservoir Walk (4.6 miles) 0.7 miles
- The Secret Side of Ladybower Walk (8.1 miles) 1.4 miles
- Hope Village to Hope Cross Walk (6.7 miles) 1.7 miles
- Derwent Edge (2.5 miles) 1.9 miles
🍺 Local Pubs
- The Yorkshire Bridge Inn 0.4 miles
- Bike and Boot 0.9 miles
- The George 1.9 miles
☕ Cafes & Tearooms
- Cintra’s in Hathersage 1.9 miles
- Colemans Deli 2 miles
- Village Green Cafe, Eyam 4.5 miles
🏨 Places to Stay
- The Yorkshire Bridge Inn 0.4 miles
- Bike and Boot 0.9 miles
- The George 1.9 miles
- Laneside Caravan Park 1.9 miles
🏛️ Attractions
- Peak Cavern 3.7 miles
- Peveril Castle 3.7 miles
- Speedwell Cavern 4.3 miles
- Treak Cliff Cavern 4.5 miles
🎪 Coming Up
Distances are straight-line and approximate. Actual travel distances may vary.
