One hiking trail in the Peak District has a rather unique feature, the remains of a plane that crashed in 1948.

The B-29 Bomber in question was a U.S. Air Force Superfortress aircraft that crashed in the British countryside during a domestic flight between UK bases.

The crash debris can be found about an hour from the nearest parking facilities, near the remote Snake Summit, and is a rather difficult hike so is not the best route for beginners, or for those hoping to bring their children along on a country hike.

The remains of the bomber make for an interesting visit, but the story behind them is one of tragedy, with all those on board the fly being killed in the crash.

The crash occurred due to the cloudy weather, with the pilots beginning their descent, believing that they had already passed over the hills, but sadly, they were mistaken.

At 11am on 3 November 1948, the aircraft hit the ground and was engulfed in flames. It wasn’t until the plane failed to land at its scheduled time at Burtonwood airbase that others realised the crash had occurred.

The crash site was then discovered at 16:30, and the bodies of those onboard were recovered the following morning.

The Boeing B-29 Superfortress was an American four-engined propeller-driven heavy bomber, designed by Boeing and flown primarily by the United States during WW2.

There are numerous hiking routes that can take you to the crash site, although all of them are particularly difficult. The Peak District website suggests parking at Snake Summit, or Doctor’s Gate Culvert – it is then about an hour’s walk to the plane.

Parking is also available at Torside, although this is then a four hour hike, with the website recommending that this is only suitable for experienced and well equipped hikers.

There are also a few routes suggested on AllTrails. Three of these are designated as hard, with one route taking five hours and 19 minutes, another lasting four hours and 57 minutes, and the third six hours and 12 minutes.

Another route, that has been labelled ‘moderate’ takes four hours and 12 minutes. One individual who enjoyed this hike, wrote: “Muddy and very cold/foggy at the top! But absolutely spectacular!”

While a fellow hiker, added: “Great hike & really touching seeing the crash site in person. Nice sunny day, even still there was thick mud in most parts, take proper equipment and you will have a great time!”

And a third wrote: “Very wet, windy and muddy. Great hike though. Seeing the crash site is a must. Glad we did it regardless of the bad weather.”