
High Tor
High Tor offers thrilling cliff-edge walks like Giddy Edge and the hidden High Tor Chasm, with breathtaking Peak District views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

High Tor
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
High Tor offers thrilling cliff-edge walks like Giddy Edge and the hidden High Tor Chasm, with breathtaking Peak District views.
"Conquer Giddy Edge for an adrenaline rush and unforgettable views over Matlock Bath!"

👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially on Giddy Edge. Good grip is essential.
⚠️ Be mindful of heights
Giddy Edge is not for the faint-hearted; it's a steep drop. Take your time and use the handrail.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giddy Edge
Cliff face of High Tor
A thrilling, narrow footpath clinging to the cliffside with breathtaking views over Matlock Bath.

High Tor Chasm
Near High Tor
A hidden, natural 'mine' with a secret path, offering a unique and less crowded exploration.

High Tor Summit Views
Summit of High Tor
Panoramic vistas of the Peak District, especially stunning on a clear day or during misty hikes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer High Tor's Thrills
Explore Beyond the Edge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially on Giddy Edge. Good grip is essential.
⚠️ Be mindful of heights
Giddy Edge is not for the faint-hearted; it's a steep drop. Take your time and use the handrail.
🗺️ Explore the Chasm
Venture into the High Tor Chasm for a quieter, more adventurous experience away from the main path.
📸 Capture the views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots from the summit and along the cliff edges.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially on Giddy Edge. Good grip is essential.
⚠️ Be mindful of heights
Giddy Edge is not for the faint-hearted; it's a steep drop. Take your time and use the handrail.
🗺️ Explore the Chasm
Venture into the High Tor Chasm for a quieter, more adventurous experience away from the main path.
📸 Capture the views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots from the summit and along the cliff edges.
💧 Check the weather
Conditions can change quickly. Misty or wet weather can add atmosphere but also increase slipperiness.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the exhilarating experience of Giddy Edge and the stunning panoramic views from High Tor. The High Tor Chasm is praised as a hidden gem offering a quieter, more adventurous exploration. Some find Giddy Edge challenging due to heights, but most agree the views are well worth the effort.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
High Tor is located in Matlock Bath. You can reach it by car, with parking available in Matlock Bath, or via public transport. The nearest train station is Matlock Bath, from which it's a short walk to the base of the tor.
Yes, there are several car parks in Matlock Bath. Some are closer to the base of High Tor than others, so it's worth checking local signage upon arrival.
While it's a longer walk, you can hike from Matlock town to High Tor. This often involves crossing the River Derwent and can be part of a larger Peak District exploration.
Giddy Edge is accessed from the paths leading up High Tor. Follow the main trails from Matlock Bath, and you'll find the entrance to the cliff edge path.
Matlock Bath is well-served by buses and trains, making it accessible without a car. From the station or bus stop, it's a straightforward walk to the High Tor area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, High Tor and its surrounding paths, including Giddy Edge, are natural attractions and do not require tickets for entry. Access is free.
High Tor is accessible at all times as it's an outdoor natural landmark. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility, especially when navigating Giddy Edge.
There is no admission fee for Giddy Edge. It's a public footpath and a natural part of the High Tor landscape.
While technically accessible, visiting High Tor at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, particularly on Giddy Edge. Stick to daylight hours for the best and safest experience.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but visitors are expected to follow 'leave no trace' principles and be mindful of the natural environment and other visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A short loop around High Tor and Giddy Edge can take about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how much you stop for photos. Longer hikes incorporating surrounding areas can extend this significantly.
Giddy Edge is a narrow cliff path with significant drops, so it requires caution. While often described as thrilling, it's generally considered manageable with care and the use of the provided handrail.
Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are highly recommended. Wear layers as the weather can change, and bring waterproofs if the forecast is uncertain.
There are no specific facilities directly on High Tor or Giddy Edge. However, Matlock Bath, located below, offers amenities like cafes, public toilets, and shops.
The main paths can be suitable for older children who are confident with heights. Giddy Edge itself may be too precarious for very young or nervous children. Parental supervision is essential.
📸 📸 Photography
The edge of Giddy Edge offers dramatic cliff-face shots. The summit provides panoramic views of the Peak District, and the High Tor Chasm offers unique, atmospheric perspectives.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Misty conditions can also create very atmospheric shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and guidelines before flying a drone in the Peak District National Park to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and the dramatic scale of the cliffs. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the landscape.
The main challenge is the exposure on Giddy Edge, requiring careful handling of equipment. The weather can also be unpredictable, so protecting your gear is important.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Matlock Bath, located at the base of High Tor, offers additional family-friendly attractions like the Peak District Mining Museum and the Heights of Abraham cable cars, which can complement a visit to the tor and provide a more relaxed experience for the whole family.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
While Giddy Edge is thrilling, solo hikers should exercise extra caution and ensure they are comfortable with heights and the conditions. It’s always a good idea to let someone know your plans and expected return time. The accessibility via public transport also makes it a convenient solo day trip.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Timing is crucial for the best photographic results. Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for softer light and more dramatic shadows. Misty conditions can also create incredibly atmospheric and moody images, adding a unique character to your shots. Be prepared for changing weather and protect your gear accordingly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Giddy Edge
When visiting Giddy Edge, sturdy footwear with excellent grip is paramount. The rock can be slippery, especially after rain, and the narrowness of the path demands focus. Many visitors recommend taking your time, using the handrail, and enjoying the unique perspective it offers. It’s a true test of nerve and a memorable part of any High Tor visit.
Safety is key when traversing Giddy Edge. While it's a popular attraction, it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings, the weather conditions, and your own comfort level with heights. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours and when the path is dry to minimize risks.
Discovering the High Tor Chasm
Unlike the busy Giddy Edge, the Chasm is often much quieter, providing a more intimate experience with the landscape. Visitors have likened it to a 'natural mine' or a 'quieter Lud's Church,' highlighting its unique geological features and the sense of discovery it offers. Exploring the Chasm involves navigating through rock formations and enjoying the raw, untamed beauty of the area. It’s a fantastic spot for those looking to escape the crowds and find a more off-the-beaten-path adventure.
When exploring the High Tor Chasm, respecting the environment is crucial. As it's less officially maintained, it's important to tread lightly, leave no trace, and be mindful of the delicate ecosystem. The experience is about appreciating the natural wonder and preserving it for others. It’s a perfect addition to a High Tor visit for those seeking something a little different and more adventurous.
Hiking and Views from High Tor
The views from High Tor are a major draw. From the summit, you are rewarded with sweeping panoramas of Matlock Bath below and the rolling hills of the Peak District stretching out before you. Whether bathed in sunlight or shrouded in mist, the scenery is consistently impressive. Many visitors find the expansive vistas to be a highlight of their visit, offering a sense of scale and natural beauty.
For those interested in photography, High Tor is a dream location. The dramatic cliff faces, the winding paths, and the vast landscapes provide endless opportunities for capturing stunning images. The changing light throughout the day, from the soft glow of sunrise to the dramatic hues of sunset, adds another layer of photographic potential.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit