Embarking on an 11-mile anti-clockwise walk with 2000ft ascent from Calver Sough, a charming village nestled on the banks of the River Derwent, with traditional stone cottages dotting the landscape.

We start our walk with a steady climb through Coombsdale Wood and then Rough Side - quite rocky under foot up to Black Harry Gate, encountering an old packhorse route, a remnant of the region's trading past. These paths were once bustling with merchants transporting goods across the moors. The gate itself serves as an historic marker, reminding walkers of the traditional ways communities interacted and traded long before modern infrastructure took over.

Then it's onwards and upwards to Longstone Edge, for a much needed coffee stop and extensive views over to Great Longstone and beyond. This area was also central to lead mining during the Industrial Revolution, with numerous mine shafts dotting the landscape.

It's then downhill to the small hamlet of Rowland (watch out for the rat !) and onto Hassop, famous for it Catholic Church, and Hassop Hall Hotel. Crossing Rymas Brook we then climb again up to the village of Pilsley for lunch and the possibility of a pint at the Devonshire Arms. We are now well past halfway and from here it's undulating fields, Bramley Wood and a tricky steep descent back to Calver (a walking pole would be handy).

As you make your way back to Calver Sough, reflecting on the journey through diverse landscapes and rich history, you'll appreciate how each area contributes to the unique character of the Peak District.

This circular walk not only offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature with good views but also serves as a journey through time, showcasing the evolution of this beautiful region from its mining roots to its current status as a cherished area of natural beauty and history.

Conclusion on the day of the Rekkie  - 4 of us had a very enjoyable walk with good weather and views. Hoping for the same when we do the actual walk.

'B' Walk - Leader- Barry Osborne. Distance - 8.75 miles. Ascent - 1,150 feet Mod.+ Clockwise.                                                                                                   

Calver & Calver Sough

The premier industry in this area was lead mining. Calver Sough, just North of Calver, is thus named because Sough is an underground channel built to take away water from the mines to prevent flooding. Today in this area there are many pubs and cafe’s to welcome visitors to the area set amongst beautiful scenery . 

The walk

Today our walk starts in Calver, where we alight from our coach at a bus stop on the A623. From here we walk carefully across the road towards Calver and the bridge over the river Derwent in the Derwent valley. Here we head North following the river until we come to the village of Froggatt, where we cross the river and continue North to Grindleford following beside the river Derwent. Here we leave the river to cross open fields and along a narrow lane to Grindleford Station where the cafe awaits us for our lunnch.     

After being fed and watered we climb a leaded path to the B6521 road which we cross, then continue to climb through a wooded area near the Longshaw Estate. We continue through the wood to reach a road which we cross to join Froggatt Edge, where we have walked many times before. From here it’s about a 2 mile walk South where we meet a path on our right, which takes us steeply down, back towards the river Derwent. It is strongly advised that on this section of the walk that a stick is used. Also we must all be prepared to assist each other on this steep, rocky section of the walk. 

Then from here it is a very comfortable stroll along the river until we reach Calver. It is a short step then back to Calver Sough and the Eyre Arms Hotel and Cafe 19 .

Please join me on this lovely walk in fabulous countryside, which will not disappoint.

P.S:  Don't forget to bring your walking pole which will be necessary on at least one section of this walk, as mentioned above.

'C'' Walk - Leaders - Elaine, Jean & Isabel. Dist - 5.5 miles. Asc. 370'. Grade - Mod. Clockw.

The coach will take our group to Calver Sough, which is just West of Calver village and drop us off near to our morning coffee stop at 'Cafe 19'.                                                                            

The first part of the walk has been changed since the original route via 'Hare Knoll' had various difficulties. Our alternative options were limited so we will follow the footpath alongside the A625 which will soon take us to the River Derwent at New Bridge. Here we will take the path to the left of the river to follow the Heritage Way to the small village of Froggatt. We cross the bridge and continue along the left hand side of the river, eventually reaching the local community shop in Grindleford. The shop usually has hot and cold drinks on sale but it is Sunday and there is a possibility that they may be closed. We shall have to see.

At this point in the walk we will need to retrace our steps along  part of the same route in order to avoid several steep ascents. Hopefully, no one will notice and at least you will be looking in the opposite direction with a different view !

So, back to Froggatt village we go from where we will be taking a different route, this time on the other side of the river as far as New Bridge. We turn left at this point to follow the path alongside the river passing the weir and goit, before cutting across the field path to Stocking Farm and on to Calver Mill. We then pass the excellent Craft Centre where we may pause for a quick look around.

The final stretch of the walk will be along the quiet backstreets of Calver village back to our starting point at Cafe 19 and the Eyre Arms, where you can decide where to have a well earned drink.

 This is a pleasant manageable walk, but a walking pole is advisable since it can be wet underfoot in places.

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