Derbyshire Sept 2016


Long weekend in the White Peaks, Derbyshire. - Report by Lonica Vanclay

Walking from Matlock on Friday, 6 walkers and I covered 16 miles along the Limestone Way to Hartington passing through Winster and Gratton and Long Dales.  The clouds kept it cool and provided a dramatic backdrop.  The YHA in Hartington is in a Tudor mansion and provided an excellent base for us.

There were 9 who joined me on Saturday for our 22 mile walk through Wolfscote and Dove dales to Ilam Hall for lunch, then via the ridge above the Manifold Valley with stunning views and the Wetton pub back to Hartington.  We managed to shelter in Milldale for the worst of the morning's rain. 

Dovedale

The group crossing the Stepping Stones in Dove Dale (Photo: Nigel Heys)

Sunday was cool but sunny and clear and we had great views of the colourful fields as 10 plus me walked 20 miles through Lathkill Dale and Over Haddon to Sheldon and back via the ridge above the valley in which Hartington is.  We missed the village festival in the fields opposite the hostel but did admire the well dressings before we dined in style at the Devonshire Arms in Hartington.

On Monday, 7 set off with me to walk the 20 miles back to Matlock, via Youlgreave, Rowsley, Stanton Moor and Clough Wood.  The rain held off and we had time for a local pint before the train back.

We managed to see the range of treats that the White Peaks offered and were chuffed that we covered 125 kilometres in the time.

 

Lonica Vanclay

 

Photos by Helen Franklin