Peak District
Ossoms Hill
334M
1096FT
About Ossoms Hill
Rising above the Manifold Valley's western flank, this limestone height offers a quiet alternative to the busier trails around Thor’s Cave. Characterised by grassy slopes and drystone walls, the summit provides a clear perspective over the winding river below and the village of Wetton tucked into the opposite hillside.
Key Statistics
Rank
366th Highest in Peak District
Parent Range
The Peak District
Prominence
?
43
Nearest Town
Grindon
Geology
Ossoms Hill is formed from solid limestone and dark, layered mudstone. These sturdy rock formations provide the rugged foundation for your hike today.
Classifications
Find It
OS Grid Reference
SK092553
Latitude
53.0948°N
Longitude
1.8641°W
Did You Know?
- •The name is believed to derive from the Old English personal name Ossa or Osmund, likely referring to the original settler of the nearby farmstead at Ossoms Fold.
- •The hill provides one of the best perspectives of Thor’s Cave, allowing walkers to see the massive limestone arch from the outside rather than looking out from within the cavern.
- •Below the hill’s eastern slopes, the River Manifold performs a famous geological disappearing act, sinking into limestone swallets near Wetton Mill and flowing underground before resurfacing at Ilam.
- •This section of the White Peak is rich in Neolithic history; the unique Long Low burial site sits just south of Wetton, featuring two barrows joined by a long, narrow bank.
- •While the summit is technically classified as a Tump, the climb feels considerably more significant if you approach from the riverbed rather than the high lane near Grindon.