10 Mile Solo Hike – Alport Castles, Derbyshire, UK
The Alport Castles are a landslip feature in the Peak District National Park in Derbyshire County, England. At over half a mile long, it is thought to be the largest landslide in the United Kingdom.
This stunning rock formation features towering cliffs, deep ravines, and jagged pinnacles, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
The name “castles” comes from the debris from the landslide, which has produced several gritstone mounds that tower over the valley and appear from the distance to look like castles. Viewed from a distance the largest of these, the “Tower”, resembles a full-scale motte and bailey castle.
The geological history of Alport Castles dates back around 10,000 years. The unique rock formations are believed to be the result of a landslide, which occurred during the last Ice Age.
The combination of shale, sandstone, and gritstone rocks that make up Alport Castles have been eroded over millennia by weathering and water action. The result was the dramatic cliffs, ravines, and pinnacles that we see today.
Alport Castles is a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and geology.
Video Source: Epic 10-Mile Solo Hiking – Alport Castles – Peak District | Mavic Air 2S from Papa Bear Adventures ⁄ CC BY