A Complete Guide to the Higger Tor Walk along Burbage Edge
The Higger Tor walk is a fantastic route which includes walking across Burbage Edge and up the Iron Age hill fort of Carl Wark. Higger Tor is a gritstone tor (gritstone rocks) in the Peak District National Park overlooking Burbage Valley. It can be found in the Dark Peak, southwest of Sheffield.
Higger Tor is a popular spot for walkers and climbers, and we loved it because it is a short walk that is easy to navigate. On the southern – edge, look out for the wonderful Southern Block, an amazing gritstone waiting to be discovered.
The walk is on access land, meaning you are welcome to walk on it freely. Upper Burbage’s blanket bogs are also a Site of Special Scientific Interest for their flora and fauna. Including cottongrasses and moorland birds, dunlin and curlew – maybe you’ll be lucky enough to see them on your walk! You may also be able to ring ouzels that enjoy the gritstone crags!
The walk we describe crosses over Burbage Rocks, down and then back up Carl Wark, across to Higger Tor and then along Fiddler’s Elbow back to the car park. It is a beautiful short walk in the Peak District.
Higger Tor Walk Details
Distance: 6.2km (3.9 miles)
Time: 1 hour 45min- 2 hours
Elevation Gain: 190m
Information about the Area
People and wildlife enjoy this popular spot at the edge of Sheffield. This landscape is important for nature conservation, providing open space and clues to past events.
Overlooking the Burbage valley, Carl Wark is a mysterious outcrop. The interior is enclosed by walls that run along the steep gritstone cliff edges. It is not known when and why they were built.
However, this fascinating monument is prehistoric and is between 2,500 and 3,500 years old. Green Drive runs south from Upper Burbage Bridge. You will see thousands of tiny holes in the Burbage Rocks boulders. Today, climbers still use these handholds to hold onto bullet wounds left over from World War I army training exercises.
In 2014, the majority of the conifer plantation was destroyed. However, there were a few areas that remained. It allowed for the creation of native broadleaf woodlands and heathland. It also linked up with the natural habitats of Longshaw, the Eastern Moors to South and North Lees, connecting people with nature.
How to get to Higger Tor
The closest village is Hathersage, which is only 2 kilometres away. From Hathersage, turn left on Main Road A6187. Continue on Ringinglow Road for another and will find the parking lot on your right.
The nearest train station is Grindleford, but if you were to catch the train, you would have to walk from Padley Gorge and take a different route.
Higger Tor Parking
Park in the Upper Burbage Bridge Car Park. It is a small car park with two parking areas and 30 spaces. It is free, and there are some spaces in laybys on the road too.
Follow the Google Map Directions here.
The address is Upper Burbage Bridge Car Park – Peak District NP, Ringinglow Rd, Hope Valley S32 1BR
There are no facilities on the walk, but you could stop off in Hathersage on the way there, with public toilets and plenty of cafes and shops. There are also facilities and a large cafe at the Longshaw Estate, which is nearby.
When is the best time to go on the Burbage Rocks and Higger Tor?
The walk is all about stunning views. So save this one for clear days. Navigation becomes difficult when the clouds roll in, and as there are many boulders, keeping it for a clear day is a good idea.
Useful Tips
- You will need Ordnance Survey OS Explorer 1 (Dark Peak) map for this walk.
- There are no stiles on the walk, which is good for dogs. However, it is not an accessible walk for wheelchairs or pushchairs because of the bog and boulders.
- Wear appropriate footwear (there is bog after rain), wear layers and take a waterproof. You are exposed on this walk.
- Take food and water with you. On the walk we describe, there is nowhere to buy them on the route.
- Take all litter home with you, there are no bins, and you should leave no trace.
- Arrive early to get a car parking spot. There are limited spaces, and it fills up fast.
- There are many boulders on this route, and the ground can be uneven.
Higger Tor Weather
Please check the weather before you set off to know what to expect. We usually check both:
A Short Higger Tor Walk
From the car park, you can walk out and back to Higger Tor without venturing to Burbage Rocks. It is the most straightforward route and is about 1.5 miles return along Fiddler’s Elbow.
Circular Walk Route Directions
Step 1: Upper Burbage Bridge to Burbage Rocks
From the car park, go through the metal kissing gate and turn left to cross the stream under the bridge. Keep going, and there is another stream to cross too.
After, keep straight, and you will see an information sign about Upper Burbage. Take the upper right-hand path at the fork here to walk along the ridge. If you take the lower path, you will walk underneath it on the Sheffield Country Walk path (this is an easier path).
Keep heading straight and walk along Burbage rocks on the edge. Continue as the path goes upwards towards Burbage Edge. You will be able to see it in front of you.
At the crossroads, next to the cairn, continue straight as it’s the fastest way to get onto Burbage Edge. Follow the natural course of the path along the edge. Make sure you stop to take some pictures.
Step 2: Burbage Rocks to Carl Wark
After roughly 3km, you need to head down Burbage Edge. After 3.3km, turn right when you see a build-up of large rocks. (See photo).
Head in the direction of Carl Wark. Turn left and go down towards the main white gravel path.
Once you reach the main path, turn left and almost immediately turn right to take the grassy path opposite the wooden bench. The route is up towards Carl Wark, and if conditions are good, it will be quite clear.
Cross the stream (which may involve a jump) and then continue through the ferns. It will involve a bit of climbing up some rocks!
Step 3: Carl Wark to Higger Tor
From here, continue straight; you will see Higger Tor in front of you.
After 4.4km, turn right to go down the path to Higger Tor. Climb up the rocks to reach the plateau.
Step 4: Higger Tor to Upper Burbage Bridge Car Park
Continue walking straight along Fiddler’s Elbow, and you will be able to see the road in front of you.
Continue along the path as it dips downhill and back up again. You will have the road to your left, and it will take you back to the car park. Higger Tor walk complete!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Higger Tor in Yorkshire?
Yes, Higger Tor is just within Sheffield’s city boundary. It is roughly 200m from the Derbyshire boundary.
How high is Higger Tor?
Higger Tor is 434m high.
Is there a trig point on Higger Tor?
No, there is not a trig point on Higger Tor.
How long is the Higger Tor walk?
You can do the circular Higger Tor walk in around 2 hours. For an out-and-back route in about 30-minutes.
Can I take my dog to Higger Tor?
Yes, we saw plenty of dogs on Higger Tor. There are no stiles on this route! Just remember to keep them on a lead and pick up after them/
What are some other good Peak District walks?
There are so many wonderful walks in the Peak District. Please read our guides to the following:
We hope you enjoy the Higger Tor and Burbage Rocks route. As always, let us know if you have any questions and let us know if you go on the walk. Happy adventuring.
Photo Credits: averagelives.com
We want to stress that ‘Average Lives’ cannot be held liable for any injuries or accidents that may occur while walking our routes. We strongly advise that you wear proper footwear to reduce the risk of injuries, and carry a paper map and compass to ensure your safety while walking. You can read more on our About Page.