OVER-EXPOSED! CRASH SITE, SHIRE

Start: Manor Park, Glossop

Distance: 9.24 miles

Duration: 3-4 hours

Ascent: 1,600 feet

Navigation: follow the route step-by-step here

By no means the easiest walk but defintiely a firm favourite amongst locals, the climb up to Higher Shelf Stones and the Over-Exposed crash site is definitely one of the most rewarding ones close to Manchester.

Starting from Glossop makes for a longer ascent — but if you’re looking to shorten the route, parking on Snake Pass near to the Pennine Way entrance gives you the best of both worlds: a shorter trail with the same amount of rewards.

Unlike a lot of the more strenuous hikes where the best views lie way up top, this route offers you insane views with every step you take.

Along the way, you’ll escape the confines of the valleys in favour of the sanctuary of high moors. The streams you see along the way make for a great respite on a sunny day — but it can get quite boggy so walking boots are a must on this one.

Before approaching the crash site, you’ll emerge at Higher Shelf Stones; the third highest summit in the Peak District. It’s a tremendous vantage point — and on a clear day, you can even spot Carneddau as well as a succession of endless flowing ridges.

Do bear in mind, the section across Bleaklow to the summit and crash site can become unclear if visibility isn’t great, so try and plan for a clear weather day and always take a navigation app with you.

After bearing right from Higher Shelf Stones trig point, it won’t be long before you come acrross the B29 crash site.

Walking around the remains of the wreckage was a truly sobering experience. The Over-Exposed! crasbed in November 1948 while carrying wages and supplies to Burtonwood USAF airbase (near Warrington) from Lincolnsire.

The crew were due to fly back to the States just a few days later but sadly didn’t make it home.

Definitely a route that tugs on your heart strings — but an important piece of our local area’s history nontheless.

A must-see if history is your bag, and an interesting route for all regardless.

Just remember the wellies!