Carl Wark Iron Age Hill Fort

Of all the Dark Peak’s famous gritstone edges, formations and tors, few hold the historical intrigue of Carl Wark, a distinctive outcrop below Higger Tor. Hikes to Carl Wark take you to the remains of an ancient fort high up on the atmospheric Hathersage Moor. Whether you’re a history buff, an avid hiker, a sucker for rugged, wild terrain or all of the above, there’s delight to be found here in spades.

This is an enigmatic, rugged part of the Peak District. To the northeast is the steep escarpment of Burbage Rocks. It rises above the high valley carved out by Burbage Brook, which tumbles to meet the River Derwent beyond Grindleford. Windswept Higger Tor, one of the most beloved in the national park, lords over the scene to the north. The whole region is beautiful on a sunny day and darkly atmospheric when mists embrace the moorland.

An ancient stronghold set amongst Dark Peak grandeur

Historians believe Carl Wark was an Iron Age hillfort and excavations around the site have even discovered artefacts hailing from the Bronze Age, meaning it may have been inhabited much earlier in the Neolithic period. Many of the earthworks and stone foundations of this complex historical site are still visible today.

The view from Carl Wark is extensive, such is its position above the Derwent Valley. Perhaps the finest aspect is straight down the barrel of the Hope Valley to the east, with the unmistakable shape of Mam Tor forming a grand termination.

There are a number of walking routes to Carl Wark and it is easy to tie it in with adventures to Higger Tor and Burbage Rocks. Its proximity to Sheffield means you’ll never have a shortage of places to stay or a lack of dining options. For something more rural, Hathersage is a quintessential Peak District village, a magnificent place to base yourself.