CHROME HILL AND PARKHOUSE HILL PHOTOGRAPHIC WALK

Peak District Photography: walking the Dragon’s Back – Chrome & Parkhouse Hills

Join me for a dedicated photographic walk on the two best-looking hills in the Peak District: Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill. This journey is adapted from my book, Peak District Through The Lens, offering a unique chance to walk ‘The Dragon’s Back’ before capturing the iconic sunset view.

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Why Chrome and Parkhouse Hills?

These limestone reef knolls rise swiftly and sharply out of the Upper Dove Valley, shaped unlike anything else in the region—arguably making them the only true peaks in the Peak District.

• Limestone Reef Knolls: Defined, dramatic shapes that offer stunning photographic lines and textures.
• The Dragon’s Back: We will walk the famous ridge of Chrome Hill, capturing the unique perspective from its summit.
• Iconic Sunset: Our final location on Hitter Hill is perfectly positioned to shoot directly into the setting sun, aligning the golden light beautifully with one of the two peaks.

Our Photographic Walk & Itinerary

This workshop is a slightly shorter, evening-focused walk (approximately 6 hours) designed to maximise time around the golden hour and sunset.

• 16:00 PM: Meet and greet with myself and other photographers. We then head off from Hollinsclough.
• The Ascent: Our 5-mile route begins by heading up to a limestone pavement and a World War 2 bunker on High Edge.
• Tor Rock & Chrome Hill: We’ll pass Tor Rock for a real appreciation of Chrome Hill’s form before heading up the hill itself. We will walk and photograph along the famous ‘Dragon’s Back’ ridge, reaching the summit.
• 18:30 PM: We will break for food. Please bring a packed meal. We will discuss what we have done and learnt on the day so far.
• The Grand Finale: We head back to the start, drive to Earl Sterndale, and walk up Hitter Hill to capture the classic, breathtaking view of both Chrome and Parkhouse Hills at sunset.

Learning and Skill Development

This workshop is a photographic walk, meaning we will build techniques throughout the day with the aim of putting what we have learned into practice for the sunset on Parkhouse Hill.

• Focus: This workshop is designed for people with a working knowledge of their camera. While I will provide plenty of technical and compositional advice, there is less time dedicated to fundamental camera instruction than on a standard workshop, due to the nature of the walk.
• Technical Skills: Throughout the walk, we will look at techniques such as:
  • Focusing
  • Using a tripod
  • Filters vs. exposure blending (essential for sunset)
  • Composition (using the dramatic lines of the peaks)
  • Working with the light
• Advanced Techniques: I am more than happy to discuss other more advanced techniques on a 1-2-1 basis as well as to the group, depending on what is beneficial.

What’s Included

• Expert Guidance: Benefit from my extensive experience and intimate knowledge of the Peak District.
• Small Group Size: With a maximum of 4 participants, you are guaranteed personalised attention and plenty of 1-2-1 tuition.
• Kit and Equipment Provided:
  • I have four sets of Maven Filters available for the group to use (a set per person). This is ideal for testing or upgrading your filter system.
  • I will also have spare tripods available for use.
• Pre-workshop Information: Upon booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with meeting details, a comprehensive kit list, discount codes, and a questionnaire to help me tailor the workshop to your needs.
• Post-workshop Support: You will receive access to my private Facebook client area for ongoing support, image sharing, and connecting with fellow photographers.

Additional Information

• Difficulty:Hill-Walking Route (Requires Good Fitness).
  • The route is around 5 miles long with steep and grassy sections, although we will be walking on well-trodden paths.
  • Hill-walking experience is preferred so you understand the undertaking. We will stop regularly and keep the pace comfortable.
• Group Size: Maximum 4 participants for a relaxed learning environment and plenty of 1-2-1 time.

Ready to explore the Dragon’s Back and capture the Peak District’s most magnificent sunset?