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.