Summary
A two day circular route that goes from the edge of civilisation (Penistone) to the Horse Stone, one of the remotest parts of the Dark Peak. Enjoy a wild camp at this lonely spot. Admire the wonderful stone rock formations between the Horse Stone and Crow Stones, although the sight of neither horses or crows are not guaranteed. Visit the sad remains of Consul TF-RPM, an aircraft that crashed on the moors in 1951. Dodge the missiles as you make your way back through the Second World War artillery range at Langsett. A tough but immensely enjoyable outing in desolate and remote country.
Click on the above map for an interactive map of the routes in this Mini Venture. Use the toggle slider to display the specific routes that you want to see on the map.
The Trails Map (dropdown, top right) is the best free map for displaying footpaths and topography. Expand to full screen (cross arrows, top right) to see route detail. Ordnance Survey maps can be used with a small subscription to Plotaroute.
See the Captain's Log of individual days for details of GPX Downloads, Plotaroute Maps and Map/Directions PDF.
Duration: 2 days
Date: 3-4/06/2024
Overall Length: 20.89 miles
Overall Height Gain: 870 m
Route: Penistone, Hartcliff Hill, Horse Stone, Crow Stones, Cut Gate, Langsett, Penistone
Penistone To Horse Stone
Starts along the Trans Pennine Trail at Penistone and works its way to the moors through a combination of fields and country lanes. Joins the moors near Langsett and follows Hordron Road on to the moors. Things start feeling remote as the route heads up to Howden Edge (spoiler: it's more of a plateau than an edge). Heads over trackless moor to the isolated Horse Stone. Wild camp with a tremendous view down the Derwent Valley.
Horse Stone To Penistone
Follows the hill contour around the Derwent Valley to the tremendous rock formation of Crow Stones. Seeks out the crash site of Consul TF-RPM. Climbs up to the trig on Outer Edge. Bog hops across to the Cut Gate path, before heading back towards Penistone. On the way it passes a second world war artillery training site (don't pick up any suspicious objects) and the picturesque Langsett Reservoir. The walk to Penistone finishes through fields and country lanes.