Climbs 457
Rocktype Limestone
Altitude 431m a.s.l
Faces NE
Dwane Barker climbing I'm in the Sin Bin (6a) at Harpur Hill © Alan James
Crag features
An impressive collection of quarried walls high above Buxton in an exposed position (if it's windy it will be cold here, even on a sunny day!), hence dries quickly. Rock generally good, excellent in places, with routes up to 33m long. Recent developments have left a number of worthwhile lower grade sport routes, many of them with a 'trad' feel about them due to the type of climbing and run-outs- "proper climbing, not just crimping"! Best routes are Mousehunt (6c), Bag of Bones (6b), The Prophecy (6c+), Coral Seas (6a+), Ratline (7b) and Cairn (7a+).
There is an excellant article here on the infamous Battle of Harpur Hill by Mick Ward.
For the latest info, try Gary Gibson's web site and don't forget to donate to his bolt fund every now and then!
Approach notes
From Harpur Hill (south of Buxton), head west (Grin Low Road), taking the first turning to the left up the hill. Continue until the road levels out in an industrial complex. Park near the old disused railway line on the left. Follow the line forking right to enter wasteland below the quarry. The upper tier is approached from the right. The industrial estate is private land and you risk being clamped. It's better to park in the village and walk up if possible.
Restricted Access
The rock varies in character from typically quarried on the lower tier through to more abrasive rock on the upper tier where blasting has uncovered large tracts of calcite-encrusted rock which almost feels like natural limestone. As with most quarries, extra vigilance needs to be exercised by both climber and belayer here given the blasting activity which has created potential for loose rock.
Climbs at this crag
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