Dark Peak Area

Dark Peak denotes the higher, northern moorland of the Peak District National Park in England, characterized by gritstone escarpments and extensive peat moor. It contains the park’s highest ground and some of its most exposed landscapes.

The area offers broad, open moorland, gritstone edges and plateaus that are popular for hiking, scrambling and moorland walking; the highest point is Kinder Scout at 636 metres. Waymarked paths and established routes cross the moor, and the gritstone edges provide views across surrounding valleys on clear days.

The underlying geology is millstone grit deposited in the Carboniferous period; subsequent weathering and periglacial processes shaped the plateau and edges. The uplands have a history of peat working, grouse moor management and lead mining during industrial periods, and many tracks date to that era.

Sited within the northern part of the Peak District National Park, the Dark Peak lies north of the White Peak and forms a broad upland area within central England, accessible from nearby urban centres to the east and north.

• Highest point: Kinder Scout is the highest point in the area at 636 metres and is a focal destination for many walkers and scramblers.
• Long-distance routes: Long-distance routes such as sections of the Pennine Way cross the area, making it a common stretch on multi-day walks across northern England.

What to See#

• Kinder Scout: A moorland plateau and the highest point in the Dark Peak area at 636 metres, known for its broad, exposed gritstone plateau and routes to the summit.
• Bleaklow: A high, often boggy plateau east of Kinder Scout that is notable for its remote, flat moorland and extensive peat bogs popular with experienced walkers.
• Kinder Downfall: A prominent waterfall and drop on the Kinder plateau that is visible from nearby paths and is a local landmark on routes across the moor.

Dark Peak covers areas accessible from towns like Buxton, Glossop and Edale. By car, use the A6 and A57 corridors; public transport to nearby villages exists (regional trains and buses), then access the moors by foot from established trailheads.

• Pick a day with clear forecasts - the Dark Peak weather turns quickly and fog can erase views.
• Bring a map and compass and be comfortable with off-path navigation; trails can be vague across moorland.
• Wear gaiters - the bogs in certain stretches are relentless on trousers and boots.