Everything you need to know about the Fairholmes Car Park at Ladybower Reservoir
The Fairholmes Car Park is the main car park near the Fairholmes Visitor Centre in the Derbyshire Peak District, UK. In our guide, we outline its location, facilities, charges, weather and walks you can do from Fairholmes.
It is good to know that the car park is open year-round, but the opening times are seasonal and close earlier in the winter. During peak season, the Fairholmes Car Park can fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early or later in the day to ensure a spot.
At the car park, you can find information about the area, including Ladybower Reservoir, the flooding of the villages and the surrounding countryside and exhibits on the history and ecology of the area.
The facilities include a cafe, visitor centre, and toilets, so it is a popular place to park your car. It is also a base to explore the wonderful area on its many walks and outdoor activities such as cycling.
It’s important to note that using barbecues and drones is strictly prohibited in this area at any time.
Where is the Fairholmes Car Park?
The Fairholmes Car Park address is Derwent Ln, Bamford, Hope Valley S33 0AQ.
You can follow the Google Maps Directions here or use the Fairholmes Visitor Centre Postcode: S33 0AQ.
Facilities at Fairholmes Car Park
The Fairholmes Visitor Centre and car park offer an information service that includes:
- National Park information and hill safety
- Information about accommodation, attractions, public transport, and events
- A retail area that sells maps, guidebooks, gifts, and clothing
- Interactive exhibitions for all ages
- A refreshment kiosk that serves hot drinks, hot food items such as hot dogs and jacket potatoes, and ice cream. (while cash is preferred, card payments are also accepted).
- Free water filling station
- Free bike pumps
- Picnic sites
- Accessible public restrooms
- Bike rental
Fairholmes Car Park Charges
While parking for the Ladybower walk can be accessible along the road near the Fairholmes Visitor Centre, finding a spot during peak times or weekends may be difficult.
An alternative option is to pay for parking at the Fairholmes car park. The cost is £3 for up to two hours or £5 for all-day parking (2023), and it accepts both cash and card, including contactless payments.
It’s important to note that overnight parking is not allowed, and charges apply at all times.
The money from parking fees are used to maintain the beauty of the Ladybower walk, including track repairs, fencing, litter picking, and site maintenance. Therefore, paying for parking is a small price to pay for the preservation of this beautiful area.
Fairholmes Visitor Centre
The Fairholmes Visitor Centre is always a highlight for us when we visit the area. They provide great information for visitors planning to walk from Fairholmes Car Park.
You can see a detailed weather forecast for the day of your visit, information on volunteer opportunities, and educational signs about the area. They also offer bike rentals, making it an excellent option for a cycling excursion.
The Visitor Centre takes its name from Fairholmes Farm, the remains of which can be seen near the car park. The farm was one of many closed to preserve the purity of the reservoir’s water.
Fairholmes Car Park Weather
Please check the weather before your visit, so you know what to expect!
We usually fit the BBC weather for Derwent Edge.
Walks from Fairholmes Car Park
You can do several walks from the Fairholmes Visitor Centre and Fairholmes Car Park. Some popular options include:
The Alport Castles Walk: to see the biggest landslide in the UK. It is impressive!
Bamford Edge Walk: for the best views over Ladybower Reservoir
The Ladybower Reservoir Walk: This moderate, circular walk takes in the Ashopton Viaduct and offers excellent views of the Ladybower Reservoir and the surrounding countryside.
The Derwent Edge Walk: This is a strenuous, circular walk that takes in the Derwent Edge and offers excellent views of the Derwent Edge and the surrounding countryside.
If you’re looking for easy-to-follow walks, the Fairholmes Visitor Centre recommends three routes. These walks all begin at the Visitor Centre and vary in difficulty and accessibility.
Each walk is marked with a different colour arrow, allowing you to choose the best route.
The Red walk is 1.5km (40 minutes) and is suitable for pushchairs, taking you to the views of Derwent Dam.
The Black walk is 3km (90 minutes) and offers a climb for views of Derwent Edge and the moors.
The Green walk is 4.5km (2 hours) and leads to arguments over Kinder Scout and the valleys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a playground at Fairholmes Visitor Centre?
No, there is no playground at Fairholmes Visitor Centre, but there is ample open space for children to run around near the Derwent Dam.
Is Fairholmes Open?
Yes, the car park is currently open. It is open Monday to Friday: 10 am – 3.30 pm and Saturday and Sunday: 9.30 am – 4.30 pm from November- Easter.
From March 2023 ( Easter) – 31st October: Weekdays 9:30 am – 5 pm; Weekends and Public Holidays: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm;
Where can I eat and drink afterwards?
You have a few options for food and dining, including the Yorkshire Bridge Inn, The Ladybower Inn and the Ladybower café, a popular roadside cafe.
Is Fairholmes Car Park free?
Unfortunately, the Fairholmes car park is not free and costs £3 for up to two hours or £5 for all-day parking.
Can you pay by card at Fairholmes Car Park?
Yes, card/contactless options are now at the machine closest to the Visitor Centre.
Where can I park for free in Ladybower Reservoir?
There are laybys on your way to Fairholmes Car Park that you can park in for free.
There you have it, a complete guide to the Fairholmes Car Park. If you still want more information, or if anything changes, please let us know in the comments below. Happy exploring!
