WHY GO
Cross open limestone fields to one of the Peak District’s most atmospheric prehistoric monuments, with the great Gib Hill burial mound nearby.
Arbor Low feels wonderfully exposed on the high limestone plateau: an earthen bank and ditch encircle roughly 50 fallen white limestone slabs and a central stone cove. The open sky and quiet fields give this Neolithic henge a strong sense of place, while nearby Gib Hill adds another layer to the ancient landscape. Take time to walk around the monument, read the setting and enjoy the broad country views. It is a short outing with a surprisingly long story.
Before you set out
Details and coordinates can be incomplete or out of date. Check current access, conditions, weather and your route with the site operator before travelling. This is not live navigation or emergency guidance.
Plan a safe visit
Editorial review: 30 October 2026. Conditions may change.
Approach
Turn from Long Rake onto the track to Upper Oldhams Farm and use the small visitor parking area. Walk through the working farmyard and fields, following gates or stiles to the stone circle; English Heritage gives 300 m from parking. Gib Hill lies nearby beyond the circle.
Walking time from arrival (one way)
8 minutes (approximate)
Terrain & steps
Farm track, working farmyard and uneven open field paths with gates or stiles; ground may be muddy and exposed to wind and rain.
Accessibility
English Heritage warns the 300 m field approach and its gates or stiles can be challenging for wheelchairs and buggies.
Access & restrictions
English Heritage lists free monument entry but a £1 per-person private-land access charge collected by the landowner. Visit at reasonable times in daylight. The small parking area has limited capacity. Dogs on leads are welcome, under close control around grazing animals. No smoking, vaping, barbecues or naked flames. Protect the monument by staying off vulnerable banks.
Facilities
No toilets, café, shop or other facilities on site. English Heritage identifies public toilets and a café at Parsley Hay, just over a mile west near the A515 and The Rake.
Seasonal considerations
Open at reasonable times during daylight throughout the year; the exposed plateau and farm fields can be wet, muddy or windy. Daylight is short in winter. Check the private-land charge and parking before travelling. The National Park announces refurbishment of the male and female toilets at nearby Parsley Hay from 2 November to 14 December; its accessible toilet and Changing Places stay open and temporary facilities are provided.
Sources & further reading
The references behind this entry. Use current site guidance for visiting arrangements.
