The Headless Cross

The Headless Cross stands on the moors between Bakewell and Sheldon, a weathered stone monument that's been marking this spot since medieval times. It's not much to look at now - really just the base and lower shaft of what was once a proper roadside cross - but that's rather the point. Centuries of Derbyshire weather have done their work, wearing away the decorative top and leaving you with something genuinely ancient rather than a restored replica.

You'll work it out as a walking destination rather than a destination in itself. The cross sits on open moorland, so it rewards the detour if you're rambling this corner of the Peak District anyway. History enthusiasts will appreciate the medieval roots - these crosses marked junctions and boundaries - but don't expect interpretation boards or facilities. This is a case of turning up, reading the landscape, and moving on. Allow twenty minutes including the walk from the nearest car park.

Walkers heading from Bakewell into the high moorland will find it a natural waypoint. It fits well with a broader exploration of this part of Derbyshire, especially if you're staying at somewhere like Packhorse Farm, which is close enough for a good morning's ramble. The cross works best as part of a longer route rather than a solo stop - you're not going to spend hours here. Bring a map, good boots, and realistic weather expectations. On a clear day the views across the moors justify the effort; in mist, you'll have to take its history on faith.