What to Expect

"The broad top really is black. It is not the only fell with a summit of peat, but no other shows such a desolate and hopeless quagmire to the sky. This is peat naked and unashamed." 

Black Hill has changed since Wainwright walked the Pennine Way all those years ago. Vegetation has returned and it's a stunningly, windswept place to be on a summers day. The views from Laddow Rocks down the valley, over the reservoir's to Bleaklow are a wonder. The 'desolate' top of Black Hill has a sense of isolation that you rarely get on the frequented hills of the Peak. That is, until someone wonders out of never, waist covered in bog. But don't worry! We won't be heading that way. The views return on our descent into Crowden, with Bleaklow looking almost mountainous in the sun.  

We will be walking in a very exposed area which can be extremely boggy underfoot. Care is needed to keep to the paths and be aware of foot placement. It is initially steep getting onto Black Hill after which it flattens out somewhat. It's rare to get a clear day on Black Hill so sticking together is important in low visibility. There are steep cliff edges and deep cloughs. The way up is well walked, with visibile paths some of which is paved. The way down is has less obvious paths, sometimes non at all so care is needed. If we are lucky enough to have a clear day then there is no shade so bring plenty of sun cream and water.