Eccles Pike facts for kids
Eccles Pike is a small, standalone hill located about three miles west of Chapel-en-le-Frith in the beautiful Derbyshire Peak District. It's made of a type of rock called gritstone, which looks pink at the very top. Even though it's not as tall as the bigger hills around it, like Cracken Edge and Combs Moss, many people enjoy walking up Eccles Pike.
Standing at about 370 meters (or 1,214 feet) above sea level, Eccles Pike offers amazing views! On a clear day, you can see the city of Manchester to the west and the wide Kinder Scout plateau to the east. Just south of the hill, you'll find Combs Reservoir, a large body of water. The word 'pike' in its name means a pointed hill. It's a bit of a mystery how it got the name 'Eccles', and whether it's connected to the town of Eccles, Greater Manchester which is famous for its tasty Eccles cakes.
What is Eccles Pike Like?
Eccles Pike is a popular spot for walkers and nature lovers. Its unique position gives you a fantastic 360-degree view of the surrounding countryside. The path to the top is well-worn, showing how many people enjoy visiting this special hill. It's a great place to get some fresh air and enjoy the outdoors.
The Eccles Pike Fell Race
Did you know Eccles Pike is home to a very old and exciting running event? The Eccles Pike Fell Race is thought to be one of the oldest fell races in the whole country, possibly starting way back at the beginning of the 1900s! A fell race is a type of running race that takes place over hills or mountains. This particular race is known for being short, but very tough and challenging. Runners have to be strong and determined to complete it!
The Topograph at the Summit
When you reach the very top of Eccles Pike, you'll find a special round plaque called a topograph. This cool feature helps you understand the landscape around you. It shows a 360-degree map of the hills, towns, and landmarks you can see from the summit. It's a great way to learn about the area and identify what you're looking at in the distance.
