There’s nothing quite like the wonderful displays of purple heather which spring up across the Peak District in late summer and early autumn, the sight of which can’t help but enhance any scenic ramble.
BAMFORD EDGE
Located to the north of the village of Bamford, Bamford Edge is one of the Peak District’s most photographed spots – affording exceptional views towards Win Hill and, of course, Ladybower Reservoir below.
Beautiful at any time of the year, the addition of the unmistakeable dashes of pink and purple at this popular spot elevate this glorious vista to yet new heights.
The heather here is really pronounced at this time of year and, combined with a stunning sunset, there are few places better to while away a late summer’s evening.
Its elevated position (it sits 1,380ft above sea level) means Bamford Edge can feel exposed, so a calm day/evening may be preferable.
One of the most stunning viewpoints in the whole of the Peak District, Surprise View, above the pretty village of Hathersage, is enhanced yet further at this time of the year with an injection of purple, as the heather blooms spectacularly here against the backdrop of panoramic views out to the wider Hope Valley.
What’s more, Surprise View is a fantastic launchpad for nearby spots which offer similarly wonderful heather-clad vistas, meaning you can incorporate a walk which really does showcase the best of the season in all its glory.
The likes of Stanage Edge and Over Owler Tor, for example, are all just a short stroll away.
The highest point in the Peak District National Park, Kinder Scout and its associated moorland is tailor-made for finding heather at this time of the year.
Why not begin your stroll in the village of Hayfield and enjoy all the dashes of heather you will inevitably pass along the way.
Particular spots and routes around this famous summit which lend themselves perfectly to heather spotting include Blackden Brook (although this can be a challenging hike) and Red Brook (generally regarded an easier route).
Wherever you find yourself around Kinder Scout, though, the chances are heather is not far away, making this breath-taking spot even more memorable for those who experience it.
Three types of heather can be found in the Peak District: bell heather; and, the most common, ling heather.
Baslow Edge, found on the eastern fringes of the Peak District, is a perfect place to spot bell heather, which flourish here against a backdrop of dramatic gritstone escarpment as well as far-reaching and spectacular views towards the Derwent Valley.
Look out too for deer roaming and highland cows, which shouldn’t be approached.
A trip to Baslow Edge also offers an opportunity to explore nearby beauty spots where heather is also prominent.
These include neighbouring heather-clad Curbar Edge, a popular route for hikers, Birchen Edge, and Gardom’s Edge.
Continuing the ‘edges’ theme, Stanage Edge is a must-see at this time of year.
The moorland just below Stanage Edge and overlooking Overstones Farm offers magnificent views out to the Dark Peak towards the aforementioned Win Hill, the Hope Valley and Kinder Scout, looming in the background.
These stunning views are made all the more picturesque by the vibrant colour, courtesy of the heather which, for a few weeks a year, transform the landscape here.
This is a truly iconic Peak District spot, one which inspired the great Charlotte Bronte. How many times did she look over the same heather-rich view that still exists here today?
Expect panoramic views aplenty.
Stanton Moor is the perfect spot to enjoy magnificent heather, especially if you’re looking for a less physically challenging location.
Enjoy elevated views down towards the picturesque village of Stanton Lees and the wider countryside and get up close and personal with the famous and seemingly timeless Cork Stone and Nine Ladies Stone Circle – a Bronze Age monument created, it is believed, around 4,000 years ago.
The moors here at this time of year are awash with a vibrant, royal purple colour as the heather briefly flourishes and creates a colourful blanket across large swathes of moorland – a true sight to behold.
Don’t forget to take your camera!
READ MORE: A photographer's guide to capturing Peak District heather
