Shining Cliff Wood

Visitor information

How to find us

Shining Cliff Wood lies on the western bank of the River Derwent adjacent to the A6 between Ambergate and Whatstandwell. Access to the wood is by public footpaths Alderwasley and Ambergate.

Sat Nav Postcode:

DE56 2SR

Shining Cliff Woods, Belper

OS Grid Ref

SK337524

Get directions

Parking and prices

Access to the wood is by public footpaths from Alderwasley, Ambergate or through Peak Pits wood. There are no dedicated parking facilities.

Additional information

Number of accessible parking spaces: 0

There are no designated accessible parking spaces at this forest. View our easy access trails page to find other forests with accessible parking.

Shining Cliff Wood

Discover the rich history of Shining Cliff Wood, see stunning bluebell displays and look out for a diverse array of birds

Located near Cromford, Shining Cliff is ancient woodland which was part of the royal hunting forest of Duffield Frith and is now designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

The wood supports a diverse bird community including warblers, flycatchers and bramblings. In the spring, coppiced sycamore trees provide a canopy for a carpet of bluebells, something that can't be missed.

There is a circular waymarked trail for visitors which pass by the remains of the Betty Kenny Tree which is said to be 2000 years old!

Please be aware that mountain biking and trail building is not allowed in the wood. Its status as a SSSI makes this a criminal offence.