Mam Tor, a popular hill in the Peak District, has seen a surge in visitors in recent years, leading to both positive and negative consequences for the local area. This increase in foot traffic has caused erosion, littering, and parking issues, prompting local residents and authorities to seek solutions. Ed Procter, a resident of Castleton with a view of Mam Tor from his garden, has witnessed the growing number of visitors. He recalls a time when the hill was less frequented but now sees hundreds of people hiking to watch the sunrise. While the increased interest in outdoor activities is generally positive, Ed notes that the concentration of visitors in one area has brought challenges. As a member of Concerned for Castleton, a group that gathers information for local authorities, Ed highlights issues like illegal parking, littering, and even human waste left by visitors. Mam Tor's rise in popularity is partly attributed to its accessibility from major cities like Manchester and Sheffield, as well as its proximity to the village of Castleton, which offers amenities such as pubs and cafes. A car park near the summit allows visitors to reach the top via a paved footpath in about 15 minutes, making it an attractive spot for sunrise watchers. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have also played a role in promoting Mam Tor as a must-visit location. Craig Best, general manager for the National Trust's Peak District portfolio, notes that the volume of visitors increased significantly during the pandemic when people sought outdoor activities. The National Trust installed people counters on Mam Tor, revealing that nearly a million people visit annually. This influx has led to environmental concerns, including litter, dog waste, and erosion, particularly on the hill's archaeological features. The popularity of Mam Tor is also reflected in the Mountain Rescue data, which recorded 77 callouts in 2024, more than any other location in the Peak District. To address these challenges, the National Trust is collaborating with local authorities and the Peak District National Park Authority to develop a plan to mitigate the impact of visitors. Craig suggests increasing car park capacity and implementing physical measures to prevent dangerous parking. He also encourages potential visitors to have alternative plans if Mam Tor is crowded, as there are many other places in the Peak District to explore. In Castleton, parking has become a significant issue. Jo Bradley, who owns Holmesfield Farm with her parents, operates a pop-up car park to accommodate visitors. However, they are limited to opening for only 60 days a year and seek more flexibility to help alleviate parking congestion. The influx of tourists has also affected local businesses like Castleton Fish and Chips, run by Rachel Holloway and her husband Martin Sutton. They face challenges with waste collections and deliveries due to inconsiderate parking. Rachel advocates for improved public transportation to ease the pressure on parking and provide a more sustainable way for visitors to explore the area. Lawrence Key, who runs several businesses in Castleton, acknowledges the importance of tourism for the village’s economy but stresses the need for sustainable management to preserve the community. He highlights the mismatch between the village's capacity and the number of visitors, likening it to a theme park built for 10,000 people but hosting 30,000. Overall, while Mam Tor’s popularity brings economic benefits to Castleton, it also presents challenges that require careful management to ensure the area remains enjoyable for both residents and visitors. Local authorities and businesses are working together to find solutions that balance tourism with the preservation of the village and its natural surroundings.