Long-ARS to Derwentwater

Saturday July 14th

Andy Davidson is leading next Saturday's walk above Derwentwater in Derbyshire.

Note earlier than usual start at 7.45 am

His description:- This is a walk of approximately 10 miles that we did do about 5/6 years ago, but as I think it's such a lovely walk I think it deserves a repeat.

We start from the Fairholmes car park (postcode S33 0AQ) and have a pleasant warm up along the edge of Ladybower Reservoir where we might see the remains of the hamlet of Derwent which was submerged when the reservoir was constructed. We then start our ascent onto Derwent Edge, a fairly gentle climb which we will be taking slowly because of the heat and my lack of fitness!
We pass close to Whinstone Lee Tor (415 metres) which could be an optional extra for anyone feeling super fit. We then pass some superb gritstone rock formations called the Wheel Stones, Salt Cellar and Cakes of Bread, before reaching Back Tor, which at 538 metres is our highest point. The whole ridge has wonderful views of Win Hill, Lose Hill, Mam Tor and Kinder.
We then take a short descent to Lost Lad before dropping down into Abbey Clough, again a lovely deeply cut valley. We eventually reach Derwent Reservoir (famous as one of the places that the Dambuster's practised before the raid) and return along its edge back to the car park.

The total climbing on the walk is about 1700 feet and most of it is quite reasonable. When I walked it this week there was a pleasant breeze along the top but the climb up and later descent was very warm indeed, if the weather remains as it is then plenty of water will be required. This is sheep country and there were plenty of ground nesting birds with young about so dogs must be on leads or under very close control for much of the time.

A fairly early start is required as Fairholmes car park does get busy as is a 1 hour 40 minute drive away, so meet at Audlem car park at 7.45 am.

NB All walkers must have suitable footwear and be prepared for adverse weather, carry food and water to last for the entire walk and be suitably fit for the various lengths of walk.

Non-members of ARS are welcome to come on a walk but are expected to join ARS and pay the membership fee after a trial walk or two.

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