Eldon Hill Quarry

A former limestone quarry, its vast basin and exposed terraced face still dominate the site. Accompanying areas of grassland, pockets of varying aged broadleaved woodland, along with a good-sized pond give the site huge potential to help increase bio-abundance and biodiversity in this corner of the Peak District.

Location

Off the road between Sparrowpit and Winnats Pass

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Know before you go

Size

40 hectares

Entry fee

None

Parking information

At the side of the track by the entrance

Grazing animals

Shetland cows graze by the footpath year-round.

Walking trails

Two concession footpaths cross part of the reserve – through the fields and by the pond. Do not venture into the quarry basin for damage of rock fall from the exposed quarry face.

Access

Relatively level walking along the concessionary footpath through the grass.

Dogs

On a lead

When to visit

Opening times

Open all the time, remote and exposed to weather.

Best time to visit

Summertime to spot insects and wildflowers as they slowly increase in abundance and diversity.

About the reserve

Following the closure of the quarry and initial restoration over 20 years ago (early 2000s), the site has had little chance to develop or increase its wildlife abundance and biodiversity. The adjustment to the site’s land management since DWT became involved in 2024, the change in the type and grazing animals and reduction in numbers, should allow natural processes the space and time for wildlife to increase and flourish – watching this space develop over time will be fun and exciting as we anticipate a wide host of flora and fauna returning.