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Mam Tor

4.8
Β·2k reviewsΒ·, United Kingdom

Iconic Peak District hill offering stunning panoramic views, popular for sunrise hikes and ridge walks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful hike.

CrowdLow
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mam tor top walks castleton

Mam Tor

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful hike.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Peak District hill offering stunning panoramic views, popular for sunrise hikes and ridge walks.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"Amazing 360 views from the top, a steep but rewarding walk!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Download Parking App

Get 'JustPark' app for car park payment; signal is unreliable. :iphone:

πŸ‘Ÿ Sturdy Footwear Recommended

The path can be steep and uneven, good walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mam Tor Summit

Mam Tor Summit

Summit

Panoramic 360-degree views of the Peak District's stunning valleys and ridges. Truly breathtaking.

TikTokReddit
The Great Ridge Walk

The Great Ridge Walk

Ridge path from Mam Tor

A scenic ridge walk offering continuous, dramatic vistas. Perfect for extending your adventure.

Instagram+1
Sunrise Spectacle

Sunrise Spectacle

Mam Tor Summit

Witnessing the sun rise above the clouds is an unforgettable, magical experience.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Sunrise

Mam Tor is incredibly popular, especially for sunrise. Arrive very early, ideally before 5 AM on weekends, to secure parking and a good spot. Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience. TikTokInstagram

Parking and Payment

The Mam Nick car park (S33 8WA) is the closest to the summit. It's pay and display, often requiring payment via the 'JustPark' app, so download it beforehand as signal can be spotty. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful hike.
Crowd
Low
When
Sunrise
Why
Magical views above the clouds.
Crowd
High
When
Sunset
Why
Golden hour light on the hills.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is my favourite thing ive done on the sheffield bucket list! If you havent hiked mam tor for sunrise please do, it was stuuuuning 😍😍😍 #sheffield #thingstodoinsheffield #peakdistrict #mamtor
@ellamthompson
18.1K likes β€’ 259.6K views

🎯 Download Parking App

Get 'JustPark' app for car park payment; signal is unreliable. Reddit :iphone:

πŸ‘Ÿ Sturdy Footwear Recommended

The path can be steep and uneven, good walking shoes are a must. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

πŸ“ Mam Tor, Derbyshire We woke up at 5am on Sunday to travel from Sheffield to the Peak District to go and see the sunrise at Mam Tor. The views were unreal and it was such a wholesome morning. 🫢🏻 This spot gets pretty busy on a weekend and you can park very close by the main walk up to the summit on the hill. The walk will take around 20 minutes and don’t forget your hiking boots! πŸŒ„ #mamtor #peak...
@travel_chapters
6.7K likes β€’ 236.4K views
MAM TOR ⛰️10 mins walk to the top to watch the sunrise πŸŒ… πŸš™ Search on maps for Mam Nick car park (there is usually a coffee van parked there if you fancy a pre/post brew β˜•οΈ) or postcode S33 8WA ⛰️ You start at the steps on the car park & within 10 mins you are at the top πŸ“Well sign posted route πŸ”221m elevation gain βŒ›οΈThe trail is 4.2km ⏰ It takes approx 1hr30 to complete. Add time if you are wa...
kirsty.homelife
19.3K likes β€’ 980.9K views

β˜• Coffee Van at Mam Nick

A coffee van often operates at Mam Nick car park for pre/post-hike brews. Instagram :coffee:

πŸ’¨ Be Prepared for Wind

It can get very windy at the summit, even on a sunny day. Bring layers! Reddit :cloud:

With how busy Mam Tor has been getting recently, why not venture out to some of the other beautiful places the Peak District has to offer πŸ˜ƒ #outdoors #nature #sunrise #mamtor #travel #landscapes #peakdistrict #uk
jacksmithuk_
29.8K likes β€’ 1.3M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Download Parking App

Get 'JustPark' app for car park payment; signal is unreliable. Reddit :iphone:

πŸ‘Ÿ Sturdy Footwear Recommended

The path can be steep and uneven, good walking shoes are a must. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

β˜• Coffee Van at Mam Nick

A coffee van often operates at Mam Nick car park for pre/post-hike brews. Instagram :coffee:

πŸ’¨ Be Prepared for Wind

It can get very windy at the summit, even on a sunny day. Bring layers! Reddit :cloud:

🐢 Dogs on Leads Welcome

Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome, but watch for livestock. Reddit :dog:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mam Tor offers breathtaking 360-degree views that are consistently praised by visitors. The relatively short and rewarding hike makes it accessible for many, though parking can be a hassle and the weather can be unpredictable and windy. Despite minor inconveniences, the stunning scenery makes it a highly recommended visit. InstagramReddit

"Amazing 360 views from the top.
There are stepping stones up on one side.
Its a steep but rewarding walk.
Parking is in a car park off of the small country road, HOWEVER the machine is currently broken so you'll have to pay by the app "justpark". The location code is 80622, and its Β£6 for a minimum of 4 hours.
I would suggest doing this beforehand as phone signal isn't always the best in this area. Car park postcode is S33 8WA.
Its free for national trust members but the machine still won't accept a national trust card scan.
People also park along the surrounding lanes and walk a further distance to the top. ( the car park is the closest distance. )
Do park carefully and not on double yellow lines.

Its worth a visit despite the parking kerfuffle, and you can walk along a ridge path from the top.
Sometimes there is livestock near the top, so dogs welcome in leads.
Its also very popular for a sunrise viewing.
Sadly I only made the sunset."

R J

"Great walk up to the top of Mam Tor. Beautiful views and a well prepared path. There is ample parking at the carparks close by our along the road in the marked parking areas. Don't park along the road where there is a double line as you will get fined."

Frits de Vroet

"Quite a short walk from the car park and the views from the top are stunning. It can be very windy though so take care."

Rich Hunte

What People Like

Stunning 360 views
Rewarding short hike
Beautiful sunrise/sunset

What People Dislike

Parking issues
Can be very windy
Crowded on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

πŸš‡ πŸ—ΊοΈ Getting There

You can take a train from Sheffield to Edale, which is a good starting point for Peak District walks. From Edale, you can hike towards Mam Tor or use local bus services. Reddit The 'Blue Bus' also goes part of the way towards Castleton and Blue John Cavern, allowing you to start the walk from there. Instagram

The Mam Nick car park (postcode S33 8WA) is the closest to the summit, offering a short walk up. Instagram+1

Yes, the 'Blue Bus' service can get you close to the Mam Tor area, particularly near Castleton and Blue John Cavern, from where you can begin your walk. Instagram

Mam Tor is approximately a 50-minute to 1-hour drive from Manchester, making it a popular day trip destination. Instagram+1

While some people park along surrounding lanes, it's crucial to only park in marked areas and avoid double yellow lines to prevent fines. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Mam Tor itself is a natural landmark and free to access. However, parking at the Mam Nick car park is a pay-and-display service, typically around Β£6 for a minimum of 4 hours. Reddit

Parking at Mam Nick car park is free for National Trust members, though the payment machine may not always accept a direct scan of your card. InstagramReddit

Mam Tor is accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor natural landmark. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours is recommended. Sunrise and sunset visits are popular. TikTokInstagram

No, tickets are not required for Mam Tor itself. Booking is only relevant for parking if you plan to use the official car parks. Reddit

The postcode for the Mam Nick car park, the closest to the summit, is S33 8WA. InstagramReddit

🎫 🚢 Onsite Experience

The walk from Mam Nick car park to the summit is relatively short, often taking around 10-20 minutes, though it can be a bit of a leg burner due to the steps. Instagram+2

The hike to the summit is generally considered moderate. It's steep but well-prepared with steps on one side, making it accessible for most fitness levels. Instagram

There are no facilities directly at the summit of Mam Tor. You'll find amenities like cafes and restrooms in nearby Castleton. Instagram

Yes, Mam Tor is a great spot for families. The relatively short walk to the top and the rewarding views make it an enjoyable adventure for kids. Reddit

Absolutely! Mam Tor is the starting point for the popular Great Ridge walk, offering continuous stunning views along the escarpment. Instagram+1

πŸ“Έ πŸ“Έ Photography

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The golden hour light bathes the landscape in warm hues. TikTokInstagram+1

Expect breathtaking panoramic shots of the Peak District, sweeping valleys, rolling hills, and dramatic ridge lines. Sunrise shots often feature clouds below. TikTokInstagram

While drone photography can capture stunning aerial views, always check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife. The open landscape offers great potential. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A tripod can be useful for sunrise/sunset shots, and a polarizing filter can enhance the sky and reduce glare. Instagram

The summit itself offers the primary 360-degree viewpoint. The entire length of the Great Ridge walk provides numerous excellent photo opportunities. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘©β€πŸ‘§ Families with Kids

Mam Tor is an excellent choice for families looking for an outdoor adventure. The walk to the summit is short and manageable, typically taking around 10-20 minutes from the Mam Nick car park, making it achievable for most children. Instagram+2 The steep but well-prepared path with steps is engaging, and the panoramic views from the top are a fantastic reward that will impress even the youngest hikers. Reddit Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities at the summit, and consider bringing a small picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery. Instagram

🚢 Solo Adventurers

Mam Tor is a fantastic destination for solo travelers, offering incredible views and a sense of accomplishment. The relatively short hike means you can easily fit it into a day trip, and the well-defined paths make it easy to navigate. Reddit For those without a car, taking the train to Edale and then hiking or using local buses is a viable option. Reddit Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to visit, offering a serene and awe-inspiring experience. Just be sure to inform someone of your plans and carry a fully charged phone for safety. Instagram

πŸ“Έ Photography Enthusiasts

Mam Tor is a photographer's dream, especially during sunrise and sunset. The dramatic landscapes, rolling hills, and often cloud-filled valleys provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. TikTokInstagram+1 A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the expansive panoramas. Instagram Consider bringing a tripod for low-light conditions during dawn and dusk. Be prepared for wind, which can add a dynamic element to your photos but also requires a steady hand or tripod. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mam Tor Sunrise Experience

Mam Tor is renowned for its spectacular sunrises, drawing crowds eager to witness the dawn break over the Peak District. Many visitors report waking up in the early hours and traveling from nearby cities like Sheffield or Manchester to catch the first light. TikTokInstagram+2 The walk from Mam Nick car park to the summit is short, often taking less than 15 minutes, making it accessible even for those not accustomed to strenuous hikes. Instagram+2 The reward is a breathtaking panorama, often with a sea of clouds below, creating a truly magical and unforgettable scene. TikTokInstagram

Despite the allure, be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends. Instagram+1 Arriving very early is key to securing a good vantage point and parking. Some visitors suggest that even with crowds, the experience is worth it. Instagram The weather can be unpredictable, so checking forecasts and dressing in layers is advisable. Reddit

For those seeking a quieter experience, visiting on a weekday is highly recommended. Instagram The early morning light and the serene atmosphere before the main rush of visitors can be just as rewarding. Remember to bring a headtorch for the walk up in the dark and a fully charged phone for photos. Instagram

Navigating Mam Tor Parking and Access

Parking is a common topic of discussion for Mam Tor visitors. The primary parking area is Mam Nick car park, identified by the postcode S33 8WA. InstagramReddit This car park offers the most direct access to the summit, with a relatively short walk up. It operates on a pay-and-display system, and many reviews mention the machine being broken, necessitating payment via the 'JustPark' app. Reddit It's advisable to download this app and set up your payment method before arriving, as mobile signal can be unreliable in the area. Reddit

For National Trust members, parking at Mam Nick is free, though there can be issues with card scanning. InstagramReddit Some visitors opt to park along the surrounding country lanes, but caution is advised to avoid parking on double yellow lines, which can result in fines. InstagramReddit Parking further away means a longer walk to the summit, but it can be a way to avoid the main car park congestion. Instagram

Public transport options exist, with the 'Blue Bus' service being a viable option for reaching the vicinity of Mam Tor, particularly if you're coming from areas like Castleton. Instagram For those traveling from Sheffield, taking a train to Edale is a recommended route for accessing the Peak District and subsequently Mam Tor. Reddit

The Mam Tor Hike and Great Ridge

The ascent to Mam Tor's summit is a rewarding experience, characterized by a steep but well-maintained path, often featuring steps on one side. InstagramReddit The walk is relatively short, typically taking between 10 to 20 minutes from the Mam Nick car park, making it an accessible hike for many. Instagram+2 Despite its accessibility, the elevation gain means it can be a good workout, hence the recommendation for sturdy footwear. Reddit [^athletic_shoe:]

From the summit, the Great Ridge extends outwards, offering a more extensive walking opportunity. This ridge walk is a highlight for many, providing continuous, breathtaking views across the Peak District National Park. Instagram+1 The trail is generally moderate, but the exposure to the elements, particularly wind, is a significant factor to consider. InstagramReddit Visitors often recommend bringing layers of clothing to adapt to changing conditions. Reddit [^camerawithflash:]

Families often find Mam Tor a great destination, with the manageable hike and stunning scenery providing an enjoyable outing. Reddit Dogs are also welcome on leads, though it's important to be aware of any livestock that may be present in the area. Reddit [^dog:]

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