Shillito Wood and Big Moor
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 9.78 Miles
Escape to the serene beauty of Shillito Wood and the expansive Big Moor in the Peak District. This captivating walk offers a delightful blend of woodland trails and open moorland, perfect for nature lovers and hikers seeking a peaceful retreat. Begin your journey through the picturesque Shillito Wood, a haven of ancient trees and natural beauty. Then, venture onto Big Moor, where panoramic vistas stretch across rolling hills and vibrant heather landscapes. Big Moor is a renowned habitat for wild deer, offering frequent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Remember to keep dogs on leads to protect these magnificent creatures. Experience the moor at its most stunning in late summer, when a sea of purple heather blankets the landscape, creating a truly unforgettable sight.
The walk involves a combination of woodland paths and open moorland trails. The moor can become boggy, particularly after rainfall, so sticking to the marked paths is strongly advised. Good, waterproof footwear is essential. While the paths are generally well-defined, it's recommended to carry a map or GPS device, especially when venturing onto the open moor. Enjoy a walk with minimal obstacles, featuring gates and well-defined paths, and no stiles.
For convenient access, choose between the small Shillito Wood car park or the larger Longahaw Estate car parks (National Trust). There are no on-site facilities along the walk itself. Nearest facilities would be in surrounding villages. For those parking at Longahaw Estate, please visit the National Trust website for parking information and any access updates: National Trust Longahaw Estate.
For your safety, check the weather forecast before setting out. Carry sufficient water and snacks. Be aware of ticks, especially during warmer months. Inform someone of your intended route and estimated return time. Be aware of the possibility of getting lost in poor visibility on the moor.
Further Information
Shillito Wood and Big Moor are two of the most beautiful and historic places in the Peak District. The wood is a remnant of the ancient forest that once covered much of the region, and the moor is a vast expanse of open peatland.
The wood is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and badgers. There are also many birds to see, such as wood warblers, nuthatches, and woodpeckers. The moor is also a great place to see wildflowers, such as heather, bilberry, and bog cotton.
In addition to its natural beauty, Shillito Wood and Big Moor are also home to a number of historical features. The most notable of these is Shillito Cross, a medieval cross that is thought to have been erected by monks from Beauchief Abbey in the 13th century. The cross is a popular destination for walkers and can be seen from many points on the moor.
Another interesting feature of the area is the series of former reservoirs that can be found on Big Moor. These reservoirs were built in the 19th century to provide water for the city of Sheffield. Today, they are no longer in use, but they provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area.
If you are looking for a place to enjoy the peace and quiet of the Peak District, then Shillito Wood and Big Moor are the perfect destination. A walk through these woods and moors is a great way to step back in time and experience the beauty of the natural world.
What will I see on this walk?
