Medium Walks

Tansley and Riber

We had a welcome return to the Peak District for our latest walk. From the start at Tansley, it was mostly either uphill or downhill, and by general agreement a very enjoyable walk, and also slightly longer than usual at just over 7 miles.

After passing Riber Castle, we needed a few minutes to get our bearings, looking down to Matlock Bath, with the cable car in view. We then headed south, above Cromford, before starting our return route near the Azalea gardens at Lea.

After 3 months of very little rainfall, the paths were all dry, and we agreed that this was not a walk for the winter or after bad weather.

Refreshment at the Tavern at Tansley was very welcome, by which time the sun had appeared, and was warming us up considerably.

Our thanks to Kevin Varey for planning and leading this walk. Our next walk in June will be to Hathersage.

John Tedstone

Melrose Holiday March 2025

Our trip to Melrose went without a hitch and was a great success; everyone seemed to have had a great time.

We had three day trips, and thankfully the weather was kind to us. We went to Jedburgh and Kelso two quaint, typically Scottish towns, Edinburgh, where we had a short guided tour and then time to ourselves.  The last trip and my favourite was to Lindisfarne Holy Island, with some stunning views across to the mainland and the ruined abbey.

The walkers among us went on two magnificent walks, the first along the River Tweed, where Gary and Tina managed to video an Otter fishing, unfortunately I didn’t see this.  We then continued via Sir Walter Scott’s house to Loch Cauldeshiels and then back to the hotel.

The second walk was through the Eildon Hills by the Rhymer’s stone and again along the Tweed back to the hotel, taking time to view Melrose Abbey and Melrose itself.

The hotel itself was very good as was the food and the staff very helpful and quick.  There was entertainment every night, which was very good especially the first night.

Thanks to everybody for making it such a memorable trip.

Mark

Long Walks Cresswell Crags

On the 5th of May 2025, a guided circular walk commenced from the Creswell Crags visitor centre, exploring a variety of local landscapes. The walk began around the Crags themselves, providing an early opportunity to appreciate the dramatic limestone gorge and prehistoric caves. From there, the route passed through the nearby model village, offering a glimpse into the historic layout and charm of early 20th-century industrial housing.

Continuing onward, the path meandered through a stretch of peaceful wooded landscape, rich in spring foliage and birdsong. This section provided both shade and tranquillity, with opportunities to observe local wildlife and wildflowers. The walk then took us past a working quarry, a stark contrast to the woodland.

The circular route concluded with a return to Creswell Crags, where participants had the opportunity to explore the visitor centre and its exhibitions on Ice Age archaeology and local geology and a nice cup of tea. The walk covered a variety of terrains and environments, offering a rewarding blend of history, nature, and scenic views. It was both educational and refreshing, with excellent participation and engagement throughout.