Todays walk in detail

On a fine, dry but very windy day 11 of us set out from the lovely village of Tideswell. The walk provides lovely views of the Derbyshire countryside. After leaving the village our path took us through fields containing many sheep and  new born lambs, one of which eluded its mother's clutches and was rescued by our intrepid walkers and returned to the fold. We then made our way via the hillside containing veins of lead. Having taken our coffee break here we proceeded  to the villages of Little Hucklow, Great Hucklow and Grindlow. We came across two sports cars way past their best but perhaps worthy of auction on "Bangers and Cash." Lunch was taken just before we reached Wardlow Mires. Having crossed the very busy A6123 we took the path up the steep slope that overlooks Cressbrook Dale. This provided superb views of the valley beneath our feet. We then made our way to the beautiful village of Litton where we saw Morris  performing in front of the "Red Lion." I'm not actually sure if they were Morris dancers but they were dressed in traditional attire of some sort. Then it was back down to Tideswell and time for us to take our refreshments at the "Horse and Jockey". Thank you for coming on the walk. As ever, we had a great day.

A big thank you to the 10 walkers who braved a potentially wet day to join me at the Outdoor Centre car park at Underbank Reservoir, 2 of whom were new walkers to our group. A big welcome to them. We climbed up through fields woodland to reach  before reaching the top of Ewden Heights (371 metres)where we had a coffee stop in the shelter of an old army target platform. There should have had fantastic views but we were in low cloud and could see nothing but our immediate vicinity! The plus side was that, even after all the rain of the previous day, the footpaths were reasonably dry. After dropping down the hillside via the grouse butts and onto the road(virtually no yomping as the gate now opened) we turned towards MIdhopestones and  climbed the last real hill of the day. The cloud lifted a little to give us our first view of the moors, and then onwards passing Midhopestone Reservoir, Reservoir number 2, and onwards to Langsett Reservoir( no 3)  and lunch. After braving the crossing of the main road, joining the Barnsley Boundary Walk path and the trans-pennine trail, crossing the road again, (ugh) we finished along the side of Underbank Reservoir. The rain held off, the mud was minimal and the company convivial. It was great to have two visiting walkers and we hope they will come again. Refreshment at the Wortley Club as we returned home.
 

A brilliant sunny start to the day for 24 walkers and 3 dogs as we headed out towards Woodall village across open farmland.  Most people know Woodall services on the M1 but Woodall village is a very quiet place in contrast.  Heading off across the fields towards Harthill we met some very curious horses before some glorious long horned cows with the cuddliest calves you've ever seen.  Everyone avoided the electric fence, unlike me when I pre walked the route, in my defence I'm not as bright as I look ! We then had a tea break in Harthill village before heading across the fields to Thorpe Salvin. On exiting the village the front runners of the group were treated to the sight of deer crossing the field into the woods.  A meal break was taken as we met the Chesterfield canal before following it back to Kiveton waters.  Great company was had on the 8 mile route and rehydration duties were carried out at the Red Lion at Todwick. Thanks to Roy for backmarking and to everyone else for coming on such a nice relaxing walk.

We arrived at Scout Dyke Car park at 9am to find the car park full. Fortunately there was a lay by a short way down the road. Looks like we will have to start our walks at 8am in future!! Eighteen walkers then set off on the 9 mile walk on a lovely sunny Spring morning. Crossing over the Pennine Line Railway we headed over fields and woods to Gunthwaite Hall. There we stopped to admire the fine example of a medieval aisled barn which was built in 1580. Onwards via Lower Denby where shortly after we stopped in a field for a coffee break. Here we were entertained by a huge ram and ewe full of the joys of Spring! We then went through Deffer Wood where we all successfully negotiated the fallen trees across the path by either climbing over or under them. More fields and woodland to take our lunch stop overlooking Gadding Moor. The highlight of the afternoon was cuddling a 4 day old lamb which after a difficult birth had been abandoned by its Mother. After a hot days walk much needed refreshments were taken at the Wortley Club.