This is a linear challenge walk taking you from the Dark Peak along the 9 edges into the White Peak. A long day, but with varying views and hopefully a café and toilet stop half way.
Distance: 23 miles/37km
Total Ascent: 3891ft/1186m of ascent
Level: Tough
Time: 7:30 - 18:30 (9 - 11hrs)
Start: Fairholmes Car Park, Derwent Ln, Bamford, Hope Valley S33 0AQ
Finish: Birchen Edge Car Park, Baslow, Bakewell DE45 1PU
Facilities: Public Toilets in the car park at start. Refreshment Kiosk open from 8am. Toilets and Cafe at Longshaw Estate. Pub and Toilets at The Grouse Inn. Pub and Toilets at Robin Hood Inn at end of walk.
Ethels: Lost Lad, Back Tor, High Neb and White Path Moss
What to Expect
This is a real adventure south from the Dark Peak into the White Peak. Views are abound over Ladybower Reservoir, across wild moors, the rushing Derwent River and green Valleys. We visit the 9 gritstones edges of the Peak District. Derwent, Stanage, Upper Burbage, Lower Burbage, Froggatt, Curbar, Baslow, Gardom's and Birchen. This long, challenging Walk is benefitted by a optional stop within the Longshaw Estate. We finish up at The Robin Hood Inn, perfect for a celebratory pint!
This is a long day with a gradual incline from the reservoir on the Derwent Edge. The paths are either paved or well worn, always uneven. There are slightly boggy areas, particularly one small section on Stanage Edge. We are up on the tops until a gradual descent into Longshaw Estate then straight back up onto Froggatt. The descent to the end is nice and gradual. Be aware that there is Highland Cattle on Baslow Edge, they're famous for being friendly so don't be scared if they want to say hello!
This is a linear walk so transportation is needed at either end of the walk. We can organise a mini van rental if so desired or we can help with lifts from Birchen Edge Car Park to Fairholmes Car Park either at the beginning or end. Its an exposed day, along the tops with little shelter so be prepared for all weathers. Other than at Longshaw Estate if any of the group wish not to continue the whole group would have to descend and the walk would be over. There are only certain areas where this would be feasible so please be prepared for a long, hard day. It's a challenge after all!