Moorlands tend to be at altitudes of more than 250m occurring on high plateaus and hillsides. They are typically exposed, windy, cool and wet receiving more than 1000mm of rain per year. Moorlands are made up of a variety of habitats reflecting subtle changes in environmental conditions.

The underlying rock of moorlands in the Peak District is gritstone which is acidic and is generally covered by an organic peaty soil up to a depth of 4m. The peat has formed over thousands of years by the build up of layers of sphagnum moss.

What is the history of the moorlands?
Why are the moorlands important?
Where have all the moorlands gone?
What is being done to save our moorlands?
What can I do?