Derwent Valley Heritage Way, Pt 3
Sat 20th May 2017
Walk Details:
The first part of this stage follows the Derwent into the Chatsworth Estate, open parkland and a fine view of the frontage of historic Chatsworth House. Soon after we reach Baslow, then Calver before densely wooded sections and occasional views of the Gritstone edges bordering the Peak District. Passing Hathersage we follow the river until it is left at Bamford to follow an old disused railway track to reach Ladybower Reservoir. Across the dam wall, created during renovation work, we reach Heatherdene picnic site and car park with views of the many arched bridge carrying the Snake road across the dam. Not the end of the Derwent but the end of the DVHW. Upper Derwent valley has two more reservoirs where the RAF practised their dambuster missions in WW2. Beyond that are the dark brooding hills of Bleaklow and Howden moors, the gathering grounds of the Derwent