Stiperstones

"There are various routes to get to the summit depending on where you park. The easiest hiking trail is from the Knolls car park postcode: SY5 0NL which is closest to the summit. You can also park at The Bog car park postcode: SY5 0NG which adds an additional walk either along the road or up through the fields to get to the trail for Stiperstones to the left or to Nipstone to the right. Make sure you are wearing good boots as much of these trails are over rocky, uneven terrain. My favourite route to the top of Stiperstones however is from Snailbeach. There is a steep climb through the forest and a long walk to get to the main rock formations, but this trail has the best views and is more of a ‘hike’. You can park at Snailbeach village hall car park postcode: SY5 0NX, there is an honesty box by the toilets where donations are welcomed. Pre Covid-19, the village hall would often be open on a Sunday serving hot and cold drinks as well as cakes and other snacks, perfect to warm cold hands and fill empty tummies after a long walk or ride. Stiperstones is a National Nature Reserve and known for the beautiful purple Heather and wildlife including red grouse. The area used to be owned in the 11th century by Wild Edric, a Saxon noble. When the Normans invaded England he fought hard to defend his land, however lost the battle eventually and had to make peace with William the Conqueror. Legend states that for his failure to defend his land he was imprisoned in the lead mines by the witches and remains there to this day. If you see the ghost of Wild Edric galloping on his horse across the hills, it means war is imminent. In addition to hiking up to Stiperstones why not also take a walk around the disused lead mine buildings at Snailbeach and learn a little bit about it’s history? "