Shining Tor Peak District
Hike to Cheshire's highest point for breathtaking panoramic views across the plains and towards Manchester.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Shining Tor Peak District
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to Cheshire's highest point for breathtaking panoramic views across the plains and towards Manchester.
"Sweeping views over Cheshire and Manchester, a cracking little hike for all!"
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The stone paths can be very slippery when wet. Good grip boots are essential for safety.
🧥 Pack for All Weather
It's exposed up here! Wind, rain, and sun can all hit you. Layers and waterproofs are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Views
Summit of Shining Tor
Sweeping vistas across the Cheshire Plain and towards Manchester. A true reward after the climb.
Errwood Hall Ruins
Near Errwood Reservoir
Explore the atmospheric remains of a Victorian country house, adding a touch of history to your hike.
Trig Point
Summit
Reach the iconic trig point marker at the summit for that classic peak bagging photo opportunity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Elements
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The stone paths can be very slippery when wet. Good grip boots are essential for safety.
🧥 Pack for All Weather
It's exposed up here! Wind, rain, and sun can all hit you. Layers and waterproofs are a must.
☕ Bring a Flask
A warm drink and some snacks make the summit experience much more enjoyable, especially on cooler days.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many visitors enjoy hiking Shining Tor with their dogs. Keep them on a lead where necessary.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The stone paths can be very slippery when wet. Good grip boots are essential for safety.
🧥 Pack for All Weather
It's exposed up here! Wind, rain, and sun can all hit you. Layers and waterproofs are a must.
☕ Bring a Flask
A warm drink and some snacks make the summit experience much more enjoyable, especially on cooler days.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many visitors enjoy hiking Shining Tor with their dogs. Keep them on a lead where necessary.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The views are incredible, especially as Shutlingsloe comes into view. Great for photography if the light is right.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the expansive views from Shining Tor, calling it Cheshire's highest point with rewarding panoramas. The hike is generally considered accessible for families and dog owners, with the ruins of Errwood Hall adding historical interest. However, some note the exposed nature of the peak, warning of strong winds and slippery conditions when wet.
"I did a lovely 13 mile walk up windgather rock, cats tor, shining tor and saw errwood hall."
Rory Forrest (Hiker1307)
"Cheshire's highest point with some good expansive views. We walked from the North along the ridge which allowed us to see Shuttlingsloe come in to view, definitely a opportune photo spot if the light is nice. Be careful on this route though as it is quite open and so exposed to strong winds and there's no where to hide if the heavens open, so come prepared. The stone path is also very slippery when wet so be careful!"
Amber Knowles
"Great little trek for all but smallest family members. Lots of rolling hills and easy enough to follow the path up to the top of the Tor. Follow road signs for Macclesfield.. nice little drive up the twisty A537 aka Cat & Fiddle road. Park up.. stick boots on and a warm jacket.. job done 👍🏽 pack a flask of tea or coffee and some food and your sorted. Been a few times now loads to meander around 😊"
anthony mcgrath
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point is via Errwood Reservoir, which has a car park. Alternatively, you can start near the Cat and Fiddle pub. Roads leading up can be narrow and winding.
Yes, there is a car park at Errwood Reservoir, a popular starting point for hikes. Parking is also available near the Cat and Fiddle pub.
Public transport options are limited. It's best to check local bus routes, but driving is generally the most convenient way to reach the area.
A popular route is from Errwood Reservoir, often including a visit to Errwood Hall ruins and Cats Tor. Another option is from the Cat and Fiddle pub. 
The roads, like the A537 (Cat & Fiddle road), can be twisty and narrow, so drive with caution.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Shining Tor is part of the Peak District National Park and is free to access for hiking.
As an outdoor natural landmark, Shining Tor is accessible at all times. However, consider daylight hours and weather conditions for your visit.
Parking at Errwood Reservoir typically has a fee. It's advisable to check current charges before your visit.
Shining Tor is not managed by the National Trust, so a pass is not required for access.
While not always advertised, local walking groups or guides may offer tours. Check local Peak District tourism websites for options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A typical hike from Errwood Reservoir to the summit and back can take 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and any detours.
It's generally considered a moderate hike, with some rolling hills and a steady climb to the summit. Suitable for most fitness levels.
Facilities are limited. Toilets and cafes are usually found at the Errwood Reservoir car park area or nearby pubs like the Cat and Fiddle.
Yes, it's a great family walk. Younger children might need some assistance on steeper sections, but the overall terrain is manageable.
You might spot various birds of prey, sheep grazing on the hillsides, and if you're lucky, small reptiles like lizards.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers expansive views. Also, consider the approach with Shutlingsloe in the background and the ruins of Errwood Hall for atmospheric shots.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light. Overcast days can also offer dramatic skies.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant details. Don't forget a polarizing filter for skies.
Drone usage in national parks can be restricted. Always check current regulations and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.
The main summit trig point is a must. The ridge walk offers evolving perspectives, and the approach from the north provides a good view of Shutlingsloe.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Dress children in layers to adapt to changing weather. Consider a shorter loop if needed, or focus on reaching the summit and enjoying a picnic with a view. Dogs are welcome, making it a great outing for the whole family.
🐶 Dog Owners
Important considerations for dog owners: Always keep your dog under control, especially around livestock and other walkers. Be prepared for muddy conditions and ensure your dog is comfortable with varied terrain. Remember to bring water for your pet, especially on warmer days.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Tips for saving money: Pack your own food and drinks from home to avoid expensive cafe stops. Utilize free parking options if available, or consider carpooling with friends. The stunning natural scenery provides all the entertainment you need without any admission fees.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Shining Tor
The ascent is steady, with rolling hills that build towards the final push to the summit. As you gain elevation, the views begin to open up, offering glimpses of the surrounding Peak District landscape and eventually stretching towards the Cheshire Plain and Manchester skyline. The summit itself is marked by a trig point, a classic landmark for hikers.
+1Many hikers combine the ascent of Shining Tor with a visit to nearby Cats Tor and Windgather Rocks, creating a longer circular walk. This offers varied terrain and even more expansive views. Remember that the summit is exposed, so be prepared for wind and changing weather conditions, even on a seemingly pleasant day.
Views and Vistas
Look out for other notable landmarks in the landscape. Shutlingsloe, often called the 'Matterhorn of Cheshire,' is a distinctive conical hill that is particularly photogenic from the approach to Shining Tor. The Goyt Valley, with its reservoirs like Errwood and Fernilee, also forms a significant part of the panorama.
These sweeping views make Shining Tor a popular spot for photographers and anyone who appreciates a good vista. The changing light throughout the day, especially during sunrise and sunset, can transform the landscape, offering unique photographic opportunities.
+1History and Heritage
+1Beyond the hall, the landscape itself tells a story of agricultural use and the impact of industrialization. The reservoirs, like Errwood, were created to supply water to Manchester, altering the valley's topography. The open moorland suggests a long history of grazing and land management.
For those interested in local history, researching the background of Errwood Hall and the development of the Goyt Valley can enhance the appreciation of the walk. It connects the natural beauty of the Peak District with the human stories that have shaped it.
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