by Papa Bear Adventures
Minninglow Hill is an ancient site located in the Derbyshire Peak District, just off the High Peak Trail, closest to the villages of Pikehall and Parwich. This site is a collection of ancient tombs scattered throughout the woodland on top of a hill, marked by a distinctive double ring of beech trees that can be seen for miles around. Minninglow Hill is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, archaeology, or simply the beauty of the English countryside. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history, legends, and ways to explore this fascinating site.
The History of Minninglow Hill
Minninglow Hill is an artificial hill located on the limestone plateau of the White Peak, believed to date back to the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age, around 4,500 years ago. The hill was constructed using a technique known as a “cairn circle,” in which a circular wall of stones is built around a central mound. The tombs date back to the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods, making them over 5,000 years old.
The largest tomb at the site is an Early Neolithic chambered tomb, measuring 45m x 38m and standing at a height of 2.4m. It contains two complete chambers made of limestone slabs and three further incomplete chambers, and is believed to have been used for communal burials and ritual sites. The Minninglow site is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and has nationally-recognized heritage status due to its well-preserved condition.
The two Bronze Age bowl barrows located approximately 25m northwest of the chambered tomb form an oval mound that measures 23.5m x 16.5m and stands at 2m high. Excavations of the tombs revealed human bones and artifacts such as Roman bronzes, coins, and pottery dating from the 3rd Century. The Bronze Age barrows yielded two flint knives, a bronze razor, and a bone tool.
Legends of Minninglow Hill
As with many ancient landmarks, Minninglow Hill has its fair share of legends and folklore. One of the most popular tales is that the hill is home to a group of fairies who come out at night to dance and play. It is said that if you hear the sound of their music, you should stay away and not disturb them, or risk being cursed.
Another legend tells of a giant buried beneath the hill, who will one day awaken and wreak havoc on the surrounding countryside. This tale was likely created to deter people from disturbing the site and damaging the cairn circle.
According to local folklore, Minninglow Hill is haunted by the ghosts of those who were buried at the site. It’s said that on certain nights, the spirits of the ancient dead can be heard whispering and chanting as they roam the hill. The locals also believe that the site is guarded by the ghost of a Neolithic warrior who protects the burial mound from those who would disturb its peace.
Exploring Minninglow Hill
Today, Minninglow Hill is a popular destination for hikers and those interested in history and archaeology. The hill can be accessed via several footpaths, and there is a car park nearby for those driving. For those who want to experience the history and beauty of Minninglow firsthand, the circular Minninglow walk via the High Peak Trail is a must-do.
The walk offers stunning views of the Peak District and takes visitors through the very fields and embankments that were once part of the Cromford and High Peak Railway line. The climb up to Minninglow Hill is rewarded with a unique opportunity to explore the ancient tombs and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The site can be visited by taking a 3-mile circular walk starting from the Minninglow car park on the High Peak Trail. The walk crosses impressive embankments constructed in the 1830s when the trail was part of the Cromford and High Peak Railway and offers magnificent views of the surrounding area. The climb up to and down from Minninglow Hill is the most challenging part of the walk, but gates are provided and there are no stiles.
In conclusion, Minninglow Hill is an important and fascinating site that offers a window into the prehistoric past of the Peak District. Its well-preserved tombs, legends, and breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, archaeology, or simply the beauty of the English countryside. Whether you’re a hiker, a history buff, or just looking for a peaceful escape, Minninglow Hill is definitely worth a visit. So why not plan a trip today and experience this unique and enchanting site for yourself?
Photography By Papa Bear
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