By: Blonde Two
So here we Blondes are; we looked closely at maps, chose our National Park, drove our journey, pitched our tent, and slept soundly here in the Peak District.
We camping somewhere in the (so far) very lovely Edale, so if you spot us do say ‘hello’.
As this is our first visit to the Peaks (is that as wrong as saying ‘the Brecons’?) we thought that we would ask those of you with more experience than us, for walk and sightseeing recommendations. There is Kinder Scout of course, that is going to be a bit of a pilgrimage for both of us, and is top of the Blonde list (not so much a mass trespass but maybe a Blonde one); but where else shouldn’t we miss? Do tell; we can’t promise to walk everywhere, but we really will try our hardest!
Image flickr.com Simon Harrod
Kinder Scout is one of my two remaining English Marilyns to do. Note: the true summit is not at the trig point, it is quite a long way off in the middle of some horrid peat hags as far as I understand. Nobody ever has much good to say about it. Good luck.
Hi. The ridge of Mam Tor, Hollins Cross and Lose Hill to your south is a classic.
As for Kinder just walk round the southern rim.
If weather poor, never, drive over to Castleton and visit one of the caves – Speedwell is unusual.
Walk along any Limestone Dale [Miller/Monsal are popular, Lathkill pretty.] for unique geology and then along the top of Stanage Edge for some real rocks.
All very near you.
Well we are safely back after Hollins Cross, Mam Tor and Lord’s Seat. A bit misty for stunning views though but three days walking left. Good so far!!
One that I regularly do as a walk leader with Secret Hills Walking Holidays is to Thor’s Cave – a spectacular coral reef cave set high up the hillside – great views over the Manifold Valley from its mouth. The walk brings in the National Trust Wetton Mill (coffee stop) and we stop for lunch at the 18th century real ale pub the Royal Oak in Wetton – home of the International Toe Wrestling competition!
In fact I’ll be doing this with around a dozen others this coming Saturday. You’re welcome to tag along if you wish. Start and finish Hartington. Let me know if you’re available/interested. It would be great to meet up!
Hi Paul what a shame, we have to head home on Saturday. The cave sounds amazing, will look it up. Kinder Low and the waterfall today which was blowing uphill and very thrilling.
Never mind – another time maybe. Kinder downfall is pretty impressive on a windy day and it sounds like you caught it just right. Wintertime in the snow adds another dimension.