Explore
Back Tor
Derbyshire
Back Tor is a striking gritstone outcrop on the Great Ridge above the Vale of Edale, forming one of the more rugged and atmospheric viewpoints in the Peak District with wide, open views stretching across Hope Valley.
When we last visited after a sprinkling of snow found it to be a place that feels exposed and elemental, where the landscape opens out dramatically and the sense of height becomes immediately apparent as the ridge drops away on either side.
It’s particularly rewarding on clearer days or during early morning and evening light, when the shifting weather over Kinder Scout and the surrounding hills adds scale and drama to the experience.
Exploring Back Tor
Back Tor
Visitor Information
Practical details to help plan your visit to Back Tor and the surrounding areas.
What to expect
The approach to Back Tor is typically made along the well-known ridge path between Mam Tor and Lose Hill, making it part of one of the most scenic walks in the Peak District.
The terrain is generally firm underfoot but fully exposed, with constant elevation changes and sections that can feel challenging in strong wind or bad visibility. During winter, the climb up Back Tor can be VERY slippy, take care or even invest in some micro spikes!
Once on the ridge, the path rewards you with continuous panoramic views, with Back Tor itself marking one of the more rugged and rocky sections of the route where the landscape feels the most dramatic.
Nearby places to explore
Back Tor sits along the Great Ridge, making it easy to explore nearby highlights such as Mam Tor, Lose Hill, and the wider Edale valley landscape.
Explore Responsibly
Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints!
It’s important to preserve and protect these incredible landscapes. Please explore responsibly by following Leave No Trace principles. Respect wildlife, farmland and each other, take your litter home with you and leave places exactly as you found them.
Discover our latest guides, reviews and news
-
Wyming Brook Walk: Our Favourite Peak District Autumn Walk
If there’s one walk we’d absolutely recommend for experiencing autumn in the Peak District, it’s Wyming Brook Nature Reserve. On the very edge of Sheffield…
-
3 Incredible Peak District Autumn Spots You Need to Visit
Autumn transforms the Peak District into a spectacular mix of golden leaves, moss-covered rocks and peaceful woodland trails. If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy…
-
Sheffield Christmas Market 2026: Ice Rink Returns After More Than a Decade!
Sheffield is getting its Christmas ice rink back! After more than a decade without one in the city centre’s festive line-up, an artificial ice rink…
Need Inspiration For Your Next Adventure?
Join us on our socials as we share our and your adventures from around Yorkshire & the Peak District!
Explore Yorkshire
Explore Peak District
Or follow us on AllTrails
About Us
Explore Collective is an independent publishing project exploring Yorkshire and the Peak District through first hand, experience-led travel guides, photography and hiking inspired by real-world visits and outdoor exploration.
Explore more.
