The White Peak includes some tougher terrain such as the
limestone gorge of Middleton Dale which contains some of the most
impressive caves in the area including the dramatic Castle Rock. As an
example of the strange disappearing rivers of the limestone peak, at
Waterfall Swallet the water disappears into potholes underground, before
reappearing near Stoney Middleton village as thermal springs.
One of the most beautiful places in all of the Peak District is the
landscape of Dovedale, Manifold and the Hamps Valley, also on the White
Peak map. As the gritstone has been worn away by erosion, the ancient
sea floor has been revealed.
The Dark Peak area of the Peak District contains high gritstone
hills, steep-sided valleys and moorland plateau, with striking edges
rising
above the eastern side of the Derwent Valley. One of the highlights of
the Dark Peak area is Kinder Scout, now a Site of Special Scientific
Interest because of its blanket peat bogs and close by lies the one of
the most spectacular sights in the Peak District, Kinder Downfall, one
of the only natural waterfalls in the Peak District National Park. The
route starting at Edale, to Kinder and back via Jacob's Ladder is a
favourite round walk.
With the peaks of Blackhill and Bleaklow, the high moorlands, and
picturesque valleys all covered on the map, walkers and climbers are
spoilt for choice. Clearly pinpointed – along with every pub, house,
viewpoint, river and right of way – you’ll have no trouble plotting and
navigating your route. For those who fancy something more challenging,
why not walk a few sections of the Pennine Way or take the 55-mile
Derwent Valley Heritage Way.
With its outcrops of light-coloured limestone rock, the White Peak is
surrounded on three sides by the gritstones of the Dark Peak. The White
Peak has pastures and hay fields dominating the land, and the Peak
District's classic limestone dry-stone walls. A perfect contrast to the
wildness and wilderness of it's dark neighbour.
Whatever outdoor pursuits you’re planning, from cycling and
sightseeing, to riding and rambling, you’ll find something to cater for
every outdoor interest on the OS Explorer map bundle of the Peak
District.
The scenery is a treat for outdoor enthusiasts who will be able to
see the outcrops of light and dark coloured limestone and gritstone that
give the area its name.
Highlights of the area include:
- Castle rock
- Middleton Dale
- Waterfall Swallet
- Thermal spring at
Middleton Stoney
- Kinder Scout
- The Pennine Way
- Edale
- Derwent Valley
Heritage Way
