A Taste of the Peak District

Accommodation and attractions of the Peak District of the UK

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Peak District accommodation, general information and geology.

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Brief crag info:

Harboro Rocks. This small crag is situated about 10 mins drive from the centre of Wirksworth and is next to the High Peak Trail. The rocks are on private land but there are no known access problems. Please remove your rubbish in order to maintain the goodwill of the local farmer whose sheep graze the area. The rock at Harboro is dolomitic limestone with plenty of pockets and flakes. It tends to be rather friable so be warned - it is more so after the winter or spells of wet weather. The majority of climbing there is top roped or bouldering. It is a favoured venue for taking groups of novices owing to the ease with which top ropes can be set up (slings round huge spikes). There are  boulder problems of all grades though many of these are becoming very polished, especially on the easy walls. You can give your fingers and arms a good work out - there are plenty of overhanging problems. The cave has provided evidence of ancient settlement going back to the bronze age and nowadays provides shelter if caught out in the rain. Please do not be antisocial by using it as a toilet. It is possible to escape the crowds by heading to some of the areas round the back but the more holds tend to fall off and the nettles have huge teeth. There is a constant noise from the local factory but after a while you don't really notice it.

I cannot think of any really classic problems, some of the best are traverses that you can make up yourself. Try getting from the cave to the small brick building in one go. Have fun!

Click on the Harboro Rocks images below to see larger versions.