Category: Long Walks

On the 4th March, we embarked on an 8.30 mile, circular walk from Tansley, taking in Tansley Knoll and Lumsdale Falls before returning to the village. The weather was on our side and it was sunny for the majority of the walk.

Setting off from Tansley, we followed a well-marked path up to Tansley Knoll, where we were rewarded with panoramic views over the Derbyshire countryside. The gentle ascent provided a good warm-up, and the terrain was a mix of grassy fields and stone paths and reasonably dry and to our relief not too much mud.

From the knoll, we descended through woodland and open farmland towards Lumsdale, where the historic valley and waterfalls awaited. The Lumsdale Falls were in full flow, cascading over moss-covered rocks. The ruins of the old mills along the valley added an atmospheric touch to the walk. The damp paths near the falls required careful footing, but the scenery made it worthwhile.

The return to Tansley followed a mixture of woodland trails and country lanes, offering a peaceful conclusion to the walk. Overall, the route provided a mix of scenic views, local history, and natural beauty, making it a rewarding excursion, finished off with a pint in the Tavern pub at Tansley.

Our latest walk was to Haywood Oaks and Blidworth Woods, the weather kept fine for us, with bright sunshine. 

The walk was 8.34 miles and on very good Forestry Commission paths, which meant we weren’t walking through mud.  The walk was mainly through  woodland which was very nice; through Blidworth where we stopped for lunch.  After which we continued our walk through fields, again on good paths, where we saw two Red Kites.  Then through Blidworth Bottoms and woodland back to the carpark; a big thank you to all who turned out, fourteen in all, a good turn out for the time of year. 

Everyone commented on what a good walk it was and how much they had enjoyed it which was very nice.  Our next walk is Tansley Knoll and Lumsdale Falls, which is near Matlock.

Date: 9^th January 2025

The walk commenced from Teversal Visitors Centre under a crisp winter sky, with temperatures hovering around 5°C. The path to Hardwick Hall wound gently uphill, offering panoramic views of the frosty countryside. The trail, well-marked and lined with bare hedgerows, provided a tranquil atmosphere, punctuated by the occasional call of a robin or the rustle of dry leaves.

After approximately 45 minutes of steady walking, Hardwick Hall came into view, its Elizabethan grandeur standing stark against the pale sky. The grounds, partially dusted with frost, were quiet, allowing for peaceful exploration of the exterior. A short rest was taken here to admire the scenery and enjoy a warm flask of tea.

The return journey led through Lady Spencer’s Wood, a secluded haven where towering oaks and beeches created a serene canopy. The woodland path was soft underfoot, scattered with fallen leaves. The air was invigorating, carrying the earthy scent of damp moss. Several squirrels were spotted darting between trees.

The circuit concluded back at the visitors’ centre after a total of around three hours, leaving walkers refreshed and inspired by the landscape’s wintry charm. This route is highly recommended for its natural beauty and historical highlights.

The December walk was an 8 mile circular hike which started by the River Trent at Fiskerton.

The route took us to Farndon before looping around the big complex that is Staythorpe Power Station. The power station is fuelled by natural gas (methane) and the site once housed 2 coal fired plants.

The area is a focus for pylons which transmit the power across the county and beyond.

We took a coffee break near these ‘iron giants’ by the river at Staythorpe

The route continued to Averham and onto Rolleston for a late lunch stop behind the village hall.

Following lunch we completed the last section via the impressive water powered Mill at Fiskerton to the car park.

The next walk is on Tuesday 7^th January

We walked from Cromford to Bonsall and through Bonsalldale back to Cromford a picturesque loop in Derbyshire, blending historical landmarks, charming villages, and scenic countryside. Starting in Cromford, we passed the historic Cromford Mill, a UNESCO World Heritage site, then follow a winding uphill path through woodlands towards Bonsall. The ascent provides rewarding views of the surrounding limestone hills and valleys.

Reaching Bonsall, a quaint village known for its narrow streets, traditional stone cottages, a rich lead-mining history and the 13th-century St. James’ Church. From Bonsall, the route continues along Bonsalldale, a serene, green valley flanked by rolling fields and dry-stone walls, making it an idyllic stretch for nature lovers.

The descent through Bonsalldale is gentle, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the countryside. The walk loops back alongside the River Derwent to Cromford where we had a pint and a chat at the Greyhound public house.