Ecton Hill

About Ecton Hill

Overlooking the steep-sided Manifold Valley, this grassy Tump is defined by its deep industrial scars and exceptional views. While the summit is modest, its position offers a clear sightline toward the limestone heights of Thor’s Cave and Wetton Hill, providing a peaceful vantage point above the river’s winding course.

Key Statistics

Find It

Did You Know?

• •The hill is synonymous with the Ecton Copper Mines. During the 18th century, it was one of the deepest mines in the world, reaching nearly 400 metres below the surface. The immense profits from the copper extracted here largely funded the construction of the famous Crescent in Buxton.
• •The name Ecton is of Anglo-Saxon origin, likely derived from 'ea-tun', meaning a farm or settlement by a river—specifically the River Manifold which loops around the northern and western base of the hill.
• •The slopes are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The spoil heaps from centuries of mining have created a unique habitat for metalliferous flora, including rare lead-tolerant plants like spring sandwort, also known as 'Leadwort'.
• •From the summit, look west across the deep incision of the Manifold Valley to see the dark, gaping mouth of Thor’s Cave set into the limestone crags of the opposite hillside.
• •Despite the hill rising to a respectable 369 metres, the 18th-century miners spent considerably more time nearly 400 metres below ground level than they did enjoying the views from the top.