Muddy Boots

Happy Spring Equinox!

Hot chocolate and Malibu on the rocks.

Yesterday's stone bothering mud bath!

Walk / Hike: Birchover Circular 14.47 miles Embark on this picturesque trail to immerse yourself in Derbyshire's captivating history and geography. Along the way, you'll encounter renowned landmarks. ...

Walk / Hike: Birchover Circular 14.47 miles

Embark on this picturesque trail to immerse yourself in Derbyshire's captivating history and geography. Along the way, you'll encounter renowned landmarks.

Rowter Rocks - A natural rock formation sculpted in the 17th century by Reverend Thomas Eyre, who, as a practicing druid and witch, carved steps, seats, and caves into the rocks.

Cratclife Hermit's Cave - Dating back to the 14th century, the Hermit's Cave features a crudely carved crucifixion standing four feet high on its wall, accompanied by a niche for a lamp or candle.

Robin Hood's Stride - Legend has it that during the 14th century, Robin Hood famously leaped between the large stones at each end of the tor, hence earning it the name "Robin Hood's Stride."

Nine Stones Close (Grey Ladies) - Dating back to the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age, only four stones remain standing today.

Anthony Hill, Elton – A possible vanished or ruined barrow found atop a wide ridge.

Nine Ladies Stone Circle - A small stone circle from the early Bronze Age, often said to depict nine ladies transformed into stone as punishment for dancing on the Sabbath.

The Cork Stone - A natural gritstone block surrounded by an alleged stone circle.

I parked outside the Druid Inn in Birchover DE4 2BL. There's a small lay-by where early birds often secure a spot. Alternatively, on-road parking within the village is available if the lay-by is full.

I walked this route in February 2024, and it was incredibly muddy—perhaps the muddiest walk I've ever experienced. While I typically classify this walk as moderate, the conditions made it quite challenging at times. I had to navigate around flooded areas and find alternative routes to proceed.

Birchover – Rowter Rocks – Hermit’s Cave – Robin Hood’s Stride – Nine Stones Close – Elton – Middleton – Youlgreave – Alport (keep an eye out for the pet Ewe who loves attention) - Shining Bank Quarry – Stanton in Peak – Stanton Moor – The Red Lion, Birchover

In Birchover, you'll find two pubs: The Druid Inn and The Red Lion, both of which I can highly recommend. If you're heading to The Red Lion, be sure to check their opening times beforehand. Additionally, don't miss the chance to try their own brewed beers—it's a treat not to be missed!

Map: https://explore.osmaps.com/route/20330655/walk--hike-birchover-circular-1447-miles?lat=53.169206&lon=-1.688591&zoom=12.6768&style=Leisure&type=2d

This was yesterday's walk!

https://youtu.be/1wplpIWiKFY?si=QVqzEqgmREIN7FAT

Walk / Hike: Baslow Circular 12.87 miles Beginning at Nether End Car Park, Baslow DE45 1SR, where parking charges apply, though free on-road parking might be available if you are fortunate.The route...

Walk / Hike: Baslow Circular 12.87 miles

Beginning at Nether End Car Park, Baslow DE45 1SR, where parking charges apply, though free on-road parking might be available if you are fortunate.

The route begins with hilly terrain until Baslow Edge, where it levels out. While there were some muddy patches, nothing too challenging. Expect a mix of gritstone edges, woodland, and riverside scenery, offering glimpses of history and abundant wildlife along the way.

Baslow - Baslow Edge (look out for the Highland Coos) - Curbar Edge - Froggatt Edge - Stoke Flatt Stone Circle (probable Bronze Age) - Hay Wood - Grindleford - Derwent Valley Heritage Way - Froggatt - Calver - Baslow

Wrap up your day with a choice between two pubs in Baslow, where you can enjoy a refreshing pint of local ale.

Map: https://explore.osmaps.com/route/20163897/baslow-circular-1287-miles?lat=53.274292&lon=-1.655736&zoom=12.1108&style=Standard&type=2d

Hassop, Monsal Trail, Bakewell Circular (6.39 miles)

Starting at the Hassop Station Cafe and Monsal Trail Car Park (DE45 1NW). This is a really easy walk and can get busy on the Monsal Trail. Relatively flat, with some road work through Bakewell. Look out for the disused mines around Holme Hall there are some very interesting features.

As at 13 January 2024 you will see flocks of visiting Waxwings near the Hassop Station Cafe.

Map: https://explore.osmaps.com/route/19901874/hassop-bakewell-circular-?lat=53.222334&lon=-1.686570&zoom=13.1117&style=Standard&type=2d

Chert Mine: https://her.derbyshire.gov.uk/Monument/MDR12988

Ladybower Circular (including plugholes)

10.9 miles https://explore.osmaps.com/route/19825441/ladybower-circular?lat=53.387869&lon=-1.745569&zoom=12.4734&style=Aerial&type=3d

https://youtu.be/J4Nne5_s60Q?si=L-6P3ofzIHumDxje