Hen Cloud

Western Gritstone

Towering bastion of the Western Grit - contains some of the longest (and toughest for their grade) routes on grit.

Crag information
Climbing Area: Peak District Rock Type: Gritstone
Importance: National CRoW Land: Yes
Ownership: Within National Park No. of Routes: 132
Within National Park: Yes Year Developed: 1909
Grid Reference: SK008615

The footpath up to the centre of the crag is eroding in places, please try to walk on stones/boulders where possible. This whole area is vulnerable to fire in dry conditions and the ecology is sensitive.

Parking and Approach

Parking has always been limited at the Roaches and Hen Cloud and during peak times, it can be hard to find a space. Please consider lift sharing to reduce the number of vehicles and increase your chance of getting parked. Ensure that you park within the marked bays and don't block the road, gates or driveways - remember that large farm machinery and rescue vehicles need space to pass too. Given the limited amount of parking available, have a plan B in mind in case you cannot get parked near the crag.

Tickets have recently started to be issued for vehicles parked on the verges outside of the parking bays and wardens are patrolling 7 days a week including bank holidays. 

 

CRoW Information

Open access land, designated under the Countryside & Rights of Way Act (2000) give area access rather than linear access as provided by public rights of way. It also gives a legal right of access specifically for climbing, as well as walking and other quiet recreation on foot.

Please bear in mind however that the landowner still has the right to restrict access for up to 28 days per year (often used on public safety grounds for shooting in moorland areas), and can also apply for longer term restrictions with Natural England (such as bans on dogs, or regular restrictions during particular times of year). It is important to check for these restrictions regularly as they can be added at short notice – all details for open access land in England can be found on Natural England’s website.  

Group Advice

All group leaders should familiarise themselves with BMC's Green Guide for Groups of Climbers.

Area information

Weather Information

Guidebook info currently being updated

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Anonymous User
06/06/2023
4 June 2023 Jackdaws with chicks nesting on K2 and in many routes to the left as well