Description

Peak Walking Adventures Charity Challenge Walk for Derbyshire Wildlife Trust – The Route

Section 1: Hathersage – Abney Moor – Eyam (18 km / 11 miles)

From the centre of Hathersage, our walk briefly follows the River Derwent before rising above the Hope Valley, with views towards the Great Ridge and Mam Tor.  We climb over wild Offerton Moor, then pass above Overdale, a rich upland pasture and one of Derbyshire Wildlife Trust’s 55 nature reserves. The route continues over Abney Moor (400m) before descending into steep-sided Bretton Clough, sometimes called the “secret valley”.  We climb William Hill (429m) before descending into the historic village of Eyam, where we share the story of its voluntary quarantine during the Plague of 1665–1666.

Eyam Checkpoint: Eyam is our checkpoint for lunch and loos! A vehicle will also be waiting here, so anyone wishing to finish after 18 km / 11 miles can take a free transfer back to Hathersage.

Section 2: Eyam – Froggatt Edge – Hathersage (12 km / 8 miles): 

Leaving Eyam, we pass the Plague Boundary Stone, where villagers left vinegar-soaked coins in exchange for essential goods from other communities. We descend to Stony Middleton, then cross the Hope Valley and River Derwent. A steep woodland climb leads to Froggatt Edge, where we follow the gritstone edge with expansive views of Bamford Edge, Kinder Scout, Curbar Edge, and Chatsworth House. We continue to Tumbling Hill, then descend through woodland to Grindleford Station (an optional rail connection back to Hathersage). We pass the fascinating ruins of Padley Manor, linked to the 1588 execution of two Catholic priests.  Our final stretch follows the banks of the River Derwent, as we return to Hathersage along the Derwent Heritage Way, through riverside woods and pastures.