Image shared for Shining Tor

Shining Tor

559m Elevation
236m Prominence
England Country

Good walks are even better shared.

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Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

The Cat & Fiddle Route

A popular route starting from the iconic Cat & Fiddle pub, this track offers a straightforward ascent with stunning views along the way.

5.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Dewey Ethel Administrative County Top (1889 to 1996) Current County/UA Top

Elevation

559m

1,834 ft

Prominence

236m

Coordinates

53.2607, -2.0095

SJ994737

OS Map

118

Explorer: OL24W

At the Summit

The summit boasts a sizeable stone trig point and a smaller rock cairn, giving it a distinctive character. The surrounding area is sprinkled with heather and offers ample space for hikers to soak in the views.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy and rocky with sections of path that can be boggy after rainfall.

Shining Tor is primarily composed of sandstone and gritstone, with striking rock formations that reflect the tumultuous geological history of the Peak District. The area features exposed bedrock and heather-covered moorland, giving it a rugged charm.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, including the Kinder Scout plateau, the distant Clougha Pike, and even the beauty of the Cheshire plains on clear days.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Shining Tor' is thought to derive from the gleaming appearance of the gritstone in sunlight, reflecting the surrounding landscape.

Historical Significance

This summit has been a landmark for centuries, providing orientation for local residents and transient hikers alike.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the Cat & Fiddle pub, with limited spaces; try to arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Public Transport

Buses run regularly from Buxton to the Cat & Fiddle, especially during the summer months.

Nearby Facilities

The Cat & Fiddle pub offers food and drink, however, facilities such as toilets are limited, so plan accordingly.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of fast-changing weather conditions, which can lead to mist and sudden temperature drops. The terrain can become slippery after rain, and certain areas may have hidden bogs.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Shining Tor?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Shining Tor through the maps

Are there other walkers around Shining Tor?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Shining Tor search or of course create your own walk for Shining Tor

Can I organise a walk to Shining Tor?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Shining Tor.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Shining Tor?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Shining Tor here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: SJ994737

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.