Autumn in the Peaks: Autumn is definitely here in the Peak District with the lovely colours. There has been a lot of rain after the drought this summer and although the reservoirs are still not full, the ground is wet. Take care especially over Kinder and Bleaklow. [November 2026]

Around Burbage Valley

Around Burbage Valley
Start : Surprise View Car Park. The (paid) Peak Park car park near to Surprise View. [SK252801 304m ]
Summary : Surprise View Car Park. - Mother Cap - Over Owler Tor - Higgar Tor - Upper Burbage Bridge - Burbage Edge - Burbage Brook footbridge - Owler Tor - Surprise View Car Park
distance : 7.5km.
ascent : 200m.
time : 2hr. 40min.

Situated just beyond the Sheffield boundary, the Burbage Valley stands as one of the Peak District’s most renowned and accessible destinations, characterized by its dramatic gritstone topography. Burbage Edge offers accessible, classic gritstone routes that provide an excellent introduction to traditional rock climbing, serving as a popular practice ground for climbers of all skill levels. Conversely, the striking gritstone formations of Higger Tor offer a considerably more technical and demanding challenge for experienced climbers


Sheffield

Current Weather

Last Updated today at : 16:05:04

Overall : scattered clouds
Temperature : 9degC.
Wind Speed : 4km/hr.
Wind Direction : WSW
Clouds : scattered clouds
Precipitation : none
Sunrise : 07:17:34
Sunset : 16:21:40
: Times are GMT add 1 hour for BST

Data from openweathermap.org

Park at the Peak District National Park car park on the A6187, located just before Surprise View (note that this facility fills quickly, particularly on weekends).

From the rear of the parking area, follow the established woodland footpath as it climbs steadily uphill. The ascent continues through the tree line to reach the first major gritstone formation: an impressive, isolated outcrop known as Mother Cap.

Continue uphill following the main path as it climbs further across the open moorland to Over Owler Tor. From this vantage point, look north to identify the primary objective: Higgar Tor. Follow the northbound path as it descends slightly towards a large, rectangular sheepfold. Skirt the upper edge of this drystone enclosure, then take the direct trail that climbs steeply onto the summit plateau of Higgar Tor. Once on top, take time to explore the perimeter path. The dramatic, overhanging gritstone cliffs offer expansive, panoramic views across the entire Burbage Valley circuit and far into the Derwent Valley. (2.5kms. 150m. 1hrs. 10min.)

From Higgar Tor, look north across the valley to locate Upper Burbage Bridge. Take the descending northern path, which makes a direct line for the bridge, a popular local hub due to its proximity to Sheffield. Pass beneath the bridge, cross the two distinct tributary streams, and ascend the short slope toward the standing stone and bench.

While a low-level track (the Green Drive) runs along the valley floor, this route maintains the high-level crest for superior views. Ascend the footpath following the top of North Burbage Edge, which commands exceptional vistas extending down the Derwent Valley. Following a brief descent, the trail reaches a prominent stone cairn marking the transition between the northern and southern sections of Burbage Edge.

Continue along the high escarpment to the historic Burbage Quarry, which marks the southern end of the edge. Follow the well-defined descent path to a gate opening onto the A6187. Cross the road carefully and pass through the opposite gate to enter the woodland. Follow the riverside path along Burbage Brook to a wooden footbridge. Bear right here onto the trail leading to Owler Tor, a striking gritstone outcrop whose most dramatic face looks west. From Owler Tor, follow the short remaining path back to the road, cross safely, and return to the Surprise View car park. (5.0kms. 50m. 1hrs. 40min.)

Gemini [AI] has been used to improve the text in this description.

17th November 2025 For a change, and closed roads, started by parking at North Burbage Bridge. Than walked down Burbage Edge, down Burbage Brook to Owler Tor. From there it was Mother Cap, Over Owler Tor and back via Higgar Tor. A lovely sunny but cold late Autumn day. The route from the north gives a different feel to the walk, not least it is uphill on the way back.

17th November 2025 Parked at Burbage Bridge then the full circuit - down Burbage Edge, Padley Gorge to cross the road at Over Owler Tor and then Mother Cap, Owler Tor, Higgar Tor and back. Really sunny all day but really cold. Wet underfoot after the days of rain.

25th April 2025 Not a full circuit of the Burbage valley, but a nice route up Higgar Tor and Carl Walk before going down to the Green Drive and back to the North Bridge. the route from carl Walk down to the valley if often very wet but after the heat and lack of rain it was the driest that I have seen.

14th October 2024 A lovely autumn day, cold but clear. A great walk past Higgar Tor to Burbage and back to Surprise View Car Park. Great views over the norther Peak District, including Kinder and Bleaklow.