Peak District

Landscape and geology

The park contains uplands commonly above 300 metres, with Kinder Scout reaching the highest point at 636 metres. Despite the name "Peak," the terrain is defined more by rounded hills and dramatic escarpments than by jagged summits. Two broad geological zones create contrasting scenery: gritstone and moor to the north, and limestone valleys and plateaux to the south. Blanket bog and heather moorland are significant features on higher ground. Kinder Scout | Pennines | gritstone | limestone | moorland

Dark Peak and White Peak

The Peak District is often divided into two landscapes with distinct soils, rock types and land uses. These are commonly called the Dark Peak and the White Peak. Each area supports different habitats and human activity:

• Dark Peak: a northerly zone dominated by millstone grit and extensive moorland, with peat soils and gritstone escarpments that attract walkers and climbers. Geology | gritstone
• White Peak: a southerly limestone region of rounded hills, dry valleys and fertile soils; it contains most villages and small towns and supports farming and tourism. limestone

The park crosses administrative boundaries and includes parts of several counties and unitary areas, reflecting its broad reach. Derbyshire | Cheshire | Greater Manchester | Staffordshire | Yorkshire

Settlement, access and transport

Population is concentrated in the lower, sheltered dales and along valley floors in the White Peak. The surrounding cities and towns — including Huddersfield, Manchester, Sheffield, Derby and Stoke-on-Trent — are within a short drive, but the internal road network in the uplands is deliberately sparse. Narrow lanes and few through-roads reflect the hilly, uneven nature of the terrain; major motorways run to the east and west of the area rather than through it. Huddersfield | Manchester | Sheffield | Derby | Stoke-on-Trent | terrain

Uses, ecology and conservation

The Peak District is a popular destination for hiking, climbing, caving and cycling. Its mosaic of heathland, upland bog, grassland and woodland supports a range of species typical of British uplands and calcareous dales. Conservation management balances visitor pressure with habitat protection, farming interests and historic sites. Recreational use and community economies remain central to the park’s identity while conservation designations and local plans guide changes to land use and access. For further general information and visitor guidance see regional resources and park authorities. overview | conservation history