Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The South Pennines SSSI spans across parts of West Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, and Lancashire, covering approximately 14,000 hectares of moorland, peat bogs, and heather moors. It is characterized by rolling hills and valleys forming an important upland landscape between the Yorkshire Dales and the Peak District. The site supports internationally important habitats including blanket bog, acid grassland, and heathland that provide breeding grounds for rare upland birds such as the merlin, red grouse, and golden plover. Raised bogs within the SSSI are home to a variety of restricted plant and invertebrate species, making it a hotspot for conservation. Historically, the landscape has been shaped by centuries of grazing, small-scale mining, and reservoir construction, with visible remains of past industrial activity such as old quarries and reservoirs. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore numerous footpaths and bridleways traversing the moors, including sections of the Pennine Way and the Rochdale Way, offering panoramic views and peaceful wildlife encounters. The area also provides opportunities for mountain biking and equestrian pursuits due to its extensive trail network. Notable features include the extensive reservoirs of the watershed between the rivers Aire and Irwell, and notable summits such as Blackstone Edge, famous for its gritstone outcrops. The SSSI appeals to naturalists, photographers, and hikers seeking remote upland landscapes with rich ecological value and a sense of quiet wilderness within reach of nearby towns.
