This whole area is popular with the general public due to its folly, viewpoints etc. The National Trust has concerns over the state of the rock and dangers to the public. Do not climb on The Old Man (it continues to shed rock and lean with increasing angle each year). In addition, the area also contains a few disused quarries inc; Millstone Quarry is not NT land and ownership is uncertain. If you climb here be sensitive to the privacy of the people in the bungalows to the north.
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
Groups wishing to use this site must obtain permission from The National Trust, Styal Estate Office, 7 Oak Cottages, Styal, Cheshire. SK9 4JQ. Tel 01625 523012. You will be required to prove insurance indemnity to third parties as well as your competence to lead groups on rock. A warden lives on site.