Opencast Arch

Peak Limestone

A series of mined out limestone arches. Steep bouldering. Take care with loose rock.

Crag information
Climbing Area: Peak District Rock Type: Limestone
Importance: Local CRoW Land: Yes
Ownership: Unknown No. of Routes: 25
Within National Park: Yes Year Developed: 2022
Grid Reference: SK1350583123

The show cave owners have said they are happy for people to climb here, but are concerned about theft of the mineral for which that area is famous. They will challenge and call the police on anyone they suspect of stealing, and mentioned pretty hefty fines. They also stated that they periodically set cameras up there. So if you see any nice rocks on the floor while climbing there don’t be tempted to pocket them. Also, although when in the crag you’re nigh on invisible, except when topping out, you are likely to be heard from the show cave, (apparently noise travels well there), so needless to say, like all crags, best behaviour, and no speakers or shouting please.

Parking and Approach

The easiest approach for both is to park as for Blue John Cavern.
East of the buildings is a gate. Go through this and follow the broad path East and slightly downhill to another gate.
Once through this there is a choice of paths. The horizontal one leads directly to The Arch (the old one, not the new one) For Opencast Arch, follow the one leading diagonally up the hill for fifty metres then cut off it leftwards and traverse the hillside to find a horizontal sheep track that traverses above The Arch (the old one, not the new one). Continue along the track to a large sycamore. The arch is hidden under this. The easiest way down is at the far side of the hole.

That sounds complex but is actually quite an easy 5-10 minutes or so approach. It is also a better approach to The Arch (the old one, not the new one) than questing up the hill from Treak Cliff Cavern.

Given it’s proximity to the show cave, keeping a low profile would seem prudent. On the approach you will be easily observed, and it’s worth being careful not to kick anything down the hill, but once in the arch you are almost completely hidden from view.

If approaching from the parking below DO NOT strike straight up from the show cave, instead continue up the hill until level with the crag and then contour back south passing The Arch.

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

Not suitable

Area information

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