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How to Find Robin Hood’s Cave in the Peak District

Robin Hood’s Cave is one of the most fascinating hidden gems in the Peak District. In this guide, I’ll share how to find it and all the essential info you’ll need before visiting.

Robin Hoods Cave

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Robin Hood’s Cave Walk at a Glance

Distance: 1.5 KM
Ascent: 78 Metre
Time: 30-45 mins
Difficulty: Easy

History of Robin Hood’s Cave

Everybody knows the legend of Robin Hood – the heroic outlaw who stole from the rich and gave to the poor. His rebellion against those in power is an inspiring tale.

While there is no hard evidence to confirm that Robin Hood and his ‘Merry Men’ were real people, there are certainly indications to suggest their existence. English folklore places them in locations all over England.

The cave on Stanage Edge is one of those locations. It’s believed that Robin Hood used the cave as a hideout and place of refuge.

woman standing on unique rock formation on stanage edge
sunset on stanage edge

How to Find Robin Hood’s Cave

Robin Hood’s Cave Map

Step 1: The Dale to Stanage Edge

woman walking on trail towards stanage edge
The Dale towards Stanage Edge Trail

We parked our campervan at the lay-by parking area on The Dale. It’s free to park here, but there are limited spaces. If it’s full up, your best bet is to try this car park instead.

From the Dale, a wide obvious track leads all the way to the gritstone ridge. At an average pace, you’ll reach the bottom of Stanage Edge in 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Climb up to Stanage Edge

view of stanage edge from afar

From the foot of the rocks, there are a few different trails leading to the top. There’s no right or wrong route, though some appear easier and safer than others.

Step 3: Walk Along Stanage Edge

couple sitting on rock during sunset on stanage edge
sunset views on Stanage Edge

Once you’re atop Stanage Edge, the trail along it is fairly linear. You’ll need to dodge over and around some rocks as you traverse the ridge, but there are no crazy ascents or descents.

Along this entire stretch, there are loads of cool rock formations and viewpoints. I snapped some gorgeous photos on our way to Robin Hood’s Cave for sunset.

Step 4: Locate this Unique Rock Formation

woman standing on unique formation at sunset
Finding Robin Hoods Cave Here

When you see the unique rock formation above, you’ll know you’re close to Robin Hood’s Cave. There aren’t any others like it and it makes for some fun photo opportunities.

Step 5: Look for this Hidden Trail to Robin Hood’s Cave

woman walking towards robin hoods cave on stanage edge
hidden trail to Robin Hood cave

Shortly after the balancing rock formation, a hidden trail snakes down the cliff face. It will be on your left, but it’s really easy to miss. 

Once you find it, follow it down. You will see the cave directly in front of you. You have to climb over some large boulders to get to it. Take extra care if it’s been raining, as the rocks can be slippery.

Step 6: Climb or Crawl into Robin Hood’s Cave

woman and dog standing in front of robin hoods cave

Now all that’s left to do is crawl or climb into Robin Hood’s Cave. The safest way involves entering from around the back. There is a gap in the rocks which you can crawl through.

We couldn’t enter this way because the cave was flooded. Our only option was to hop over the ledge at the front. It’s a risky move, and you’ll need to be extra careful if you choose to enter this way.

Step 7: Enjoy the Views

woman standing at lookout point of robin hoods cave
Robin Hoods Cave is one of the best views in the peak district!

Everything about Robin Hood’s Cave is enchanting. The cave itself looks like something out of a fairytale, and it’s easy to imagine the folklore legends to be true.

With sweeping vistas over Hope Valley, this is easily one of the best views in the Peak District. I highly recommend watching the sunset here. You only have to look at our photos to see why.

woman watching sunset from robin hoods cave
sunset at robin hoods cave peak district

Robin Hood’s Cave FAQs

How to Get There

Robin Hood’s Cave is on Stanage Edge in the Dark Peak area of the Peak District. The quickest and easiest way to access Robin Hood’s Cave is to park at this car park. From here, it’s a 20-minute walk to the cave.

drone shot of stanage edge
Epic Drone Shot of Stanage Edge!

Best Time to Visit

Stanage Edge is one of the most famous viewpoints in the Peak District, so it gets quite busy during peak teams. Sunset is a great time to visit the cave. I would avoid during high winds, heavy rain, or poor visibility.

sunset on stanage edge

How Accessible is Robin Hood’s Cave?

Stanage Edge is one of the easier walks in the Peak District. While getting to the top of the ridge requires a bit of climbing, it’s mostly flat once you’re up there. Just take care when entering the cave.

Other Things Worth Knowing

Dogs: Dogs are permitted on this walking route.

Kids: Be careful with young children entering the cave.

Pushchair/Wheelchair Access: This route is not accessible with a pushchair or wheelchair.

Footwear: Supportive footwear with a good grip is essential.

Weather: The weather can change quickly in the hills. Be prepared for all seasons.

Facilities: You will find bins, shops, pubs, toilets etc. in Hathersage village.

Map: It’s always good to have a map handy. We use All Trails.

couple taking a selfie in front of stanage edge

Have Fun Visiting Robin Hood’s Cave!

 I hope you enjoy Robin Hood’s Cave as much as we did. If you’re visiting the area soon, you might find some of our Peak District articles helpful.

If you have any questions, please ask. Otherwise, I wish you happy and safe travels.

Planning a trip around the UK?

Check out our England series for more travel tips and advice. 

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