Walk 1093 - printer friendly version

Higger Tor & Burbage Rocks Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 5.3 miles / 8.6 km

Ascent - 600 feet / 182 metres

Grade - easy/mod

Start - OS grid reference SK266800
Lat 53.316268 + Long -1.6021866
Postcode S11 7TZ (approx. location only)

This short half day Peak District walk is a route full of contrasts. In the early stages the walk crosses some wild moorland and includes the well known rocky viewpoint of Higger Tor. From here the views across the valley to the gritstone Burbage Edge are excellent. The return route follows the infant Burbage Brook which includes a delightful section towards the end of the walk. Finally you have a chance to explore some of the grounds of the National Trust's Longshaw Estate. Refreshments are available at the start and end in Longshaw Lodge.

The start is the main National Trust car park for the Longshaw Estate (grid ref. SK266800). After parking follow the signed footpath towards Longshaw Lodge. On reaching the main drive turn right and walk to the B6521. Cross this road carefully and bear right to take a signed footpath on your left (grid ref. SK265802). Follow this clear path through light woodland until you reach the busy A6187 at Burbage Bridge. Cross when safe and follow the road to the left. Once across the bridge take the first footpath on the right.

The onward route crosses Hathersage Moor. It can be a little wet underfoot after rain. The path is distinct and well trodden trending roughly northwards to Carl Wark an ancient fort which rises above the surrounding moorland. Descend a little and keep on the same bearing towards Higger Tor which is the next objective. This gritstone mass rises quite sharply although the ascent is relatively short lived. Once you have gained the top it is worth spending a few minutes exploring as there are some fine views to be enjoyed in all directions.

Continue in the same direction leaving Higger Tor. Bear right at the first major junction of paths to walk parallel to the road on your left. This road is rather quaintly known as Fiddler's Elbow probably because of its alignment. On reaching the road (grid ref. SK260829) bear right and cross Upper Burbage Bridge. From here you have a lovely view of your return walk.

Once across Upper Burbage Bridge turn right and follow the broad path along the east side of the valley. To your left are Burbage Rocks a favourite spot for climbers. This is easy walking and you will get a fine view of Higger Tor on your right as you gently descend. You reach the A6187 just east of Burbage Bridge (grid ref. SK262805). Cross this busy main road and take the footpath opposite. After a short way you reach the path used in the early stages of the walk. You can turn left and return easily to the start but a much more enjoyable finale to the walk is to bear right and walk towards Burbage Bridge.

Before you reach the road turn left (grid ref. SK261806), cross the footbridge over Burbage Brook and follow the path down the stream. This is a pretty stretch and in fine weather is a popular place to relax and perhaps paddle in the brook. Continue down to the next footbridge (grid ref. SK257800). Cross this bridge and walk up to the B6521. Cross the road and bear right to take a signed footpath on the left. This leads up Granby Wood, passes a small lake and leads to Longshaw Lodge and back to the start.

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