B-29 Crash Site
Bleaklow, Derbyshire
The B-29 Crash Site, is the location where the ‘Bleaklow Bomber’ crashed in the Peak District; located near to Bleaklow and Glossop and in very close proximity to the Higher Shelf Stones peak. The site is now a memorial to the 13 crew members who sadly lost their lives on November 3, 1948; the crew were performing a routine flight from RAF Scampton to AFB Burtonwood. While it is an incredibly interesting place to visit, it is also extremely moving.
The route…
There are a couple of starting points for the route to the B-29 crash site, depending on where you choose to park (parking details below). While the route is very much the same regardless of where you park, you will just find the starting point is different; you will have to walk slightly further if you park at Doctor’s Gate, but there is a track to follow until you meet the main path to the crash site.
The Snake Pass layby will get you started on the right path and it is relatively self-explanatory all the way. You will end up getting to a stream with no obvious direction; here, you should make sure you choose the path to the left and you will soon begin to see some of the scattered remains of the aircraft. If you went to the right, you will find yourself on the way to Bleaklow peak.
Once you have reached the site, you could turn around and return the way you came. However, I would recommend continuing to the Higher Shelf Stones peak (no more than a few hundred yards). Higher Shelf Stones peak is one of the highest peaks in the Peak District, so it is a real achievement. When you have reached the summit, you will see a white trig point in front of you and a path to the left; from here, you can continue your circular route back down to where you started. On a clear day, you should see your starting point in the distance, so it is relatively easy to follow back down the hill. The whole route should be around 4 – 5 miles and I would allow 3 – 4 hours to complete the route and explore the crash site and the surrounding scenery.
Things to know…
The route is not suitable for anyone with mobility issues as the paths are uneven and there are plenty of loose stones; also be mindful when crossing the streams, as the rocks are a little wobbly. Comfortable trainers or walking boots are a must! And don’t forget the summit of Higher Shelf Stones (621 metres high) can get pretty cold, even during the summer, so be sure to pack something warm.
Nearby attractions: Bamford Edge.
Prices
It is free to visit the crash site.
Parking
There are a couple of parking options to choose from, and both free! The closest parking location is a layby right next to the beginning of the route. There is no specific postcode for this layby, but you will find it along the A57 (Snake Pass), between Glossop and Snake Woodland (find map image below); the layby is located opposite a bus stop. The other option is at Doctor’s Gate (image below); this parking location is much smaller and will add less than 1 mile to your route.
**Information correct as of June 2021**
