| 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.
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