'Around the Dog and Castle'


The clash with England v Germany in the World Cup last 16 had a significant bearing on the turnout for this walk. There was also the slight problem that the details shown in Strider were for an incorrect car park but Jackie rounded us up at 8.30am and took us to Crowden where our walk was to start.

Jackie was leading for us as a 'guest' leader being a member of High Peak group and we also welcomed Stella from West Yorkshire and Tony from Westmoreland group

Our leader was a little concerned. She had only done a recce the day before and the mileage was a little more than stated. Not only that, but there was also some significant heather bashing and bog trotting. At least we knew before we started!

Off we went shortly before 9am up Torside Clough on the Pennine Way. We had only gone a short distance before we were caught by Wessex member Patrick Fleming who was 48 days into an 80 day, 1600 mile JOGLE walk. He looked in remarkably good condition for his walk and we wished him well - he declined an option to do some heather bashing with us!

Our first objective was Dog Rock which sits above Yellowslacks Brook with some super views down the valley towards Glossop. Some cross country work again to Hern Stones and then down to the Snake Pass. The sun was now beating down and we were very grateful for the opportunity to get under some trees as we followed the delightful valley of Lady Brook before crossing the Snake road to join the old Roman Road.

Alport Castles was the next objective and lunch was taken just below the edge where there was a solitary tree we could shade under. The Alport Valley was then followed to Grains in the Water and then on to the summit of Bleaklow.

Still no easy options - off down Black Clough and then on a compass bearing to Stable Clough.

The heat meant most had run out of water by the end of the day and the shop on the campsite at Crowden was very welcome. Overall, just short of 24 miles across some very rough terrain and almost 6pm before our return to our cars. An excellent day out - extremely glad I didn't stay in to watch the football.