Burbage Edge Circular Walk

Route Description for Burbage Edge Circular Walk

While there are a few steep sections of trail along the Burbage Edge Circular, namely around Higger Tor, Carl Wark, and the edge itself, the majority of the route is easy to navigate and fairly laid back. To navigate these steep stretches, make sure to wear proper footwear. Additionally, there are a number of animals in the area, from grazing cattle to sheep and nesting birds. Be sure to keep your dogs on a lead if you are travelling with them. Parking near Burbage Bridge is also free!

Setting out from the car park, follow the trail south along the edge of the valley to begin the uphill climb towards the summit of Higger Tor. Once you have reached the rock-strewn summit, enjoy the beautiful views that stretch out across the valley and include the Burbage Edge on the opposite side. Continue south along the trail and carefully navigate the steep, rocky terrain to arrive at Carl Wark.

This is a unique site, due to the presumed Iron Age fort that consists of built up embankment and rocky outcrop at the top of the hill. After exploring the area, head southeast along the trail to cut through a boggy stretch of terrain and eventually arrive at a car park at the edge of Hathersage Road. From here, turn your direction to the northeast and follow the trail on a course along Burbage Edge.

As you walk along the rocky edge of the escarpment, be mindful of the steep drop offs as you gaze out across the expanse of the Burbage Valley that is sprawled out to the west, with the Burbage Brook dissecting it in the middle. When you approach the area around Burbage Bridge where you began, investigate the rocks that are found in the area. The small bullet holes that mark their surface are a reminder that this area was once a training ground for soldiers during the Second World War. Continue on a short distance to cross over the Burbage Brook and return to the car park where you began your walk.

Other amazing walks in Peak District National Park

Check out our guides to Kinder Scout, Mam Tor, Stanage Edge, Dovedale, and Padley Gorge. Or see all of our Peak District walks on 10Adventures.