The peculiar shape of this hill is due to a geological fault and a mining collapse early in the 20th century. From the summit at 320m there is a magnificent 360-degree view, which on a clear day allows the visitor to see as far as Teesside in one direction and the Yorkshire Dales in another. Newton and Cliff Ridge Woods skirt the northern edge of the property and Cliff Rigg quarry still retains evidence of the extraction of whinstone, once used for road-building. The area is rich in wildlife, particularly moorland birds. A spur of the Cleveland Way National Trail runs up to the summit.