[1] The ridge forms part of the east/west watershed between the River Severn and the River Trent, with rainfall on the western side going to the Bristol Channel via the Severn, and rainfall on the eastern side ending up in the North Sea via the Trent.

The largest hill, Turner's Hill, is the highest point in the West Midlands county, with an altitude of 269 metres (883 ft) above sea level.

The height has also led to the construction of two radio transmission towers on the summit.

Portway Hill is the site of a nature reserve of the Wildlife Trust for Birmingham and the Black Country.

[1][5] Over the centuries that the hills have been inhabited there have been four churches located there, all named St. Giles, in the village of Rowley.