Win Hill From Ladybower Reservoir: 3 Mile Circular

Win Hill is located northeast of Bamford and overlooks Ladybower Reservoir in the Peak District. This short two-hour walk still packs a punch, with a steep ascent to the summit that then rewards you with stunning 360-degree views. Standing at 463 metres (1,519 feet) whether you are chasing a sunrise or looking to get away from it this peaceful woodland is a great way to spend a couple of hours. 

According to local legend, Win Hill earned its name from a battle fought long ago between the forces of King Edwin of Northumbria and the Mercians who camped on neighbouring Lose Hill — the victors supposedly giving the peaks their names. Though this is more myth than historical fact. Win Hill overlooks Ladybower Reservoir, which also has its own place in the history books. Ladybower was used by the RAF pilots of the Dambusters Squadron to practice their daring low-level runs during the Second World War — a striking reminder of how much history these hills have witnessed.

The main starting point for the walk is from Heatherdene Car Park which is a pay and display car park which costs £3.50 for 2 hours or £6.00 for all day. This is a popular area for hikers, cyclists and runners so the spaces fill up quickly, we always recommend arriving early. There is also limited free parking in the lay-bys around the area but again arrive early to get a space. 

Win Hill from Ladybower route description

Stage 1 – Ladybower Reservoir to Win Hill trig point

Leaving Heatherdene car park, head past the toilets and continue along the path, further along take a right and down the steps to the main road. Take care crossing as this is a very busy road with traffic often travelling at high speeds. Once over the road the route takes you across the reservoir wall, an opportunity to look out over the reservoir and the surrounding views.

At the end of the reservoir wall take a left and follow the paved path down until the path splits, keep to the right along the path here marked as Thornhill Trail. Follow the trail along and you will soon come to a stream with a path to the right. Here, head up the narrow, rocky, uneven and often muddy path — following bad weather this path gets extremely muddy, especially as you climb higher.  

This is the start of a relatively short — just over half a mile (1km) but very steep climb up towards Win Hill Trig Point. As you continue the path gets really steep and takes approximately 30 mins to climb. Soon you will reach a metal gate, head through the gate, and continue up the stone steps which will lead you to the trig point. On a clear day the views from here are simply stunning — looking out to Lose Hill, Bamford Edge and Stanage Edge as well as Derwent Dam to the North.

 Stage 2 – Win Hill trig point to Ladybower Reservoir

Once you have enjoyed the views, leaving the trig point continue in the same direction coming down onto a clear path. Following the path along you will soon reach a crossroads, here take the path to the right. Continue down with views over the reservoir directly in front of you.

At the next gate head through the and take the path straight down through the woodland area. Continue along the woodland path and you will reach the path at the bottom which skirts Ladybower Reservoir. Take a right at the bottom and then take a left heading back across the reservoir wall you crossed at the start of the walk.  

Got the OS Map App? Follow the route by clicking the link below.

Where to eat and drink after hiking Win Hill

The closest place for food and drink following the walk up Win Hill is the Yorkshire Bridge Inn which is just a few minutes walk from Ladybower Reservoir. This family owned inn offers quality classic pub dishes as well as having 14 en-suite bedrooms if you are looking for a stay. The food menu Monday to Friday changes on a Saturday and Bank Holidays and there is also a Sunday lunch menu too.

On the Monday to Friday menu starters will cost you from around £7 up to £10, a main course from £16 up to £30 for a Ribeye steak and desserts start at £4 and range up to around £9. The prices for the Saturday menu are roughly the same just a slight tweak to the menu itself. The Sunday lunch menu offers a selection of meats; sirloin of beef (£19), Derbyshire leg of lamb (£19) half roast chicken (£18) or a vegetarian nut roast option (£16). Add a selection of sides to your roast from £4.50 each.

They also offer hot and cold sandwich selections as well as a breakfast and children’s menu. Breakfast is between 8am-10am, serving coffee from 9am with the bar opening at 11am. Lunch is served between 12pm-3pm and dinner Sunday to Thursday between 5pm-8pm and 5pm-8:30pm Friday and Saturday.

⚠️ Warnings & Tips for Hiking Win Hill from Ladybower
The path heading up to the trig point is quite steep, particularly near the start. It can become slippery and muddy after rain, with exposed roots and loose rocks underfoot. A good pair of hiking boots with solid grip is essential.

Like all Peak District summits, Win Hill can change character quickly — sunny in the valley, wild at the top. Always check the forecast and carry waterproofs and warm layers year-round.

The summit of Win Hill is exposed and windy, even on mild days. Take windproof layers and avoid lingering too close to the edges in strong gusts.

Pics from the peaks: more from Win Hill