Blake Mere Trig Point

Blake Mere Trig Point is a key feature on several popular hiking routes. The most notable is the "tri-trig walk," a challenging 10-mile route that also encompasses the Hill House and Revidge trig pillars, circling the heart of the Staffordshire Peak District. Many hikers also visit it as part of the "Peak District Trig Point Challenge," an endeavor to locate all 88 trig points within the national park.

The approach to Blake Mere Trig Point often involves traversing wild and open moorland. While the trig point itself is considered accessible, the terrain can be varied, including grassy paths, potentially boggy sections after rain, and rocky outcrops. Appropriate footwear is strongly advised for comfort and safety.

Parking is generally available at nearby trailheads, though specific dedicated parking directly at the trig point is limited. Popular starting points often include small lay-bys or designated parking areas in villages like Longnor or Warslow, from where various routes lead to the trig point. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, is recommended as spaces can fill up quickly.

Direct public transport to Blake Mere Trig Point is generally not available due to its remote moorland location. However, bus services may operate to nearby villages such as Longnor or Warslow, from which you would need to undertake a significant walk to reach the trig point. Planning your journey in advance is essential if relying on public transport.

From Blake Mere Trig Point, you can enjoy fantastic panoramic vistas across the southern Derbyshire Dales. To the west, the distinctive geological features of Hen Cloud, The Roaches, and Ramshaw Rocks are clearly visible. The nearby Blakemere Pond (Black Mere Pool), steeped in mermaid legend, is also a notable natural feature in the vicinity.

While Blake Mere Trig Point can be visited in winter, conditions can be significantly more challenging. The open moorland is exposed to wind and cold, and paths can become icy or boggy. Snowfall can make navigation difficult. If planning a winter hike, ensure you have appropriate winter gear, navigation skills, and check weather forecasts carefully.

While the overall area involves moorland walking, some routes from nearby villages might offer a more gradual ascent or shorter distance, making them more suitable for beginners. It's advisable to check route descriptions on platforms like komoot for details on elevation gain and terrain to find a path that matches your experience level.

Yes, Blake Mere Trig Point is generally considered family-friendly for those accustomed to walking, and dog-friendly. The open access land allows for dogs, but they should be kept under close control, especially during lambing season or near livestock. Be prepared for varied terrain that might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Given the exposed moorland terrain, it's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, such as sturdy hiking boots, and dress in layers. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are highly recommended, even on seemingly fine days, as weather conditions can change rapidly in the Peak District. Sun protection is also important year-round.

While Blake Mere Trig Point itself is in a remote location, nearby villages such as Longnor and Warslow offer amenities. You can find traditional pubs serving food and drinks, as well as cafes and various accommodation options, including B&Bs and holiday cottages, within a short driving distance.

Blake Mere Trig Point (TP0713) is a triangulation pillar that served as a primary survey point for the Ordnance Survey. It played a crucial role in the accurate mapping of Great Britain before modern surveying technologies. Today, it functions as a passive station, but remains a significant landmark for hikers and those interested in the Peak District Trig Point Challenge.

As a popular spot within the Peak District, Blake Mere Trig Point can attract a fair number of visitors on weekends, especially during good weather. While it's generally not as crowded as some of the more famous Peak District attractions, you can expect to share the trails and the trig point with other hikers. For a quieter experience, consider visiting early in the morning or on weekdays.