Hathersage Moor

Welcome to Higger Tor on the Peak District’s eastern edge. The Eastern and Western moors protrude southward from the bulk of the Dark Peak, enclosing the lower, softer landscape of the White Peak – which holds many wonders of its own in its spectacular caves and dales. From here on Hathersage moor, one can look out over the Peak District to Kinder Scout and Bleaklow in the North, up the vale of Hope to the Great Ridge, and Southward over the rolling White Peak. Higger Tor is a particularly good view point.

Hidden behind the boulder is Carl Wark, an ancient and mysterious hillfort. The heather is in flower here, painting the whole landscape purple. This is a spectacle almost unique to the UK, and one which is sadly under threat, along with the special habitats provided by the moor. Heather has to be maintained by the right amount of grazing livestock, and regular burning. Perhaps as a consequence of climate change, it now faces competition from other species even on the bleakest hills: note the bracken which swathes the hillside.

Burbage Rocks (which can be seen top left) lie to the east of Carl Wark and Higger Tor.

Looking northwards from Over Owler Tor (on the western side of Hathersage Moor) we can see Stanage Edge sweeping away towards the high moorland. Derwent Edge is visible in the far distance.