The rock varies in character from typically quarried on the lower tier through to more abrasive rock on the upper tier where blasting has uncovered large tracts of calcite-encrusted rock which almost feels like natural limestone. As with most quarries, extra vigilance needs to be exercised by both climber and belayer here given the blasting activity which has created potential for loose rock.
Don't swim in the bright blue toxic pool (as if you needed telling)!
Parking and Approach
Careful parking is essential to prevent conflict with the landowners and local residents, with currently two possible parking locations:
IMPORTANT NOTE - As of early March 2025 the area surrounding and including the Industrial Estate off-road parking previously described is now subject to private parking enforcement. Notices have been posted around the area and are a result of occasions where inconsiderate parking of numerous vehicles along the roadside leading up to the HSE entrance have obstructed access. The notices refer to ANPR technology. This has been followed up with a request from HSE reinforcing this position and requesting the removal of reference to this parking location on the RAD:
Pub parking: park on the road alongside the Parks Inn, walk up Fiddle Street and into the fields behind the houses. Here a footpath leads across the fields that joins the previous approach just before the banking. Alternatively you can go left to the College Buttress and Dark Side Lower. Hillhead Lane parking: take this small road off Burlow Road at the south end of the village. Follow it for 200m to park on the verge before the Tarmac sign. Follow the bridleway to Dark Side Lower in 15-20 minutes.