Plane Crash Sites on Black Hill
/Black Hill, with its boggy terrain and exposed moorland, has long been a challenging landscape for hikers and navigators alike. In my latest Boot Routes video, I set out to explore some of the plane crash sites hidden on this remote hill while also keeping an eye out for golden plover and mountain hares—two of the moor’s most elusive residents.
The Journey to Black Hill’s Crash Sites
The moors have seen their fair share of aviation history, with multiple military aircraft succumbing to the harsh conditions over the years. Many of these wrecks still remain scattered across the hills, serving as poignant reminders of the past. Armed with my navigation skills, I set out to locate a few of these sites, using a combination of old crash reports, grid references, and on-the-ground map reading to pinpoint their exact locations.
Navigating on Black Hill is no easy feat, especially with its peat hags, deep groughs, and unpredictable weather. The terrain constantly shifts underfoot, making it a true test of both physical endurance and navigation ability. It’s a great reminder of why solid compass skills are crucial when exploring upland areas.
Wildlife Encounters: Golden Plover & Mountain Hares
While the wreckage tells a fascinating story of history, Black Hill is also home to some incredible wildlife. The golden plover, with its distinctive call and striking plumage, is a bird often heard before it’s seen. These moorland specialists thrive in the high-altitude habitats, blending into the landscape remarkably well.
Equally well-camouflaged are the mountain hares, which transition to a white coat in winter to blend in with the snow. With spring approaching, I managed to spot one still sporting its winter coat. Watching it dart across the heather was a real highlight of the trip.
Watch the Video
This adventure combined navigation challenges, historical exploration, and wildlife photography, making for an unforgettable day on the moors. If you want to see how I fared in finding the crash sites and capturing these incredible creatures on camera, check out the full video on Boot Routes:
📺 https://youtu.be/j46RIO7zZIE
If you've explored Black Hill or have tips on navigating to other crash sites in the UK, let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your experiences!