🌲Upper Derwent🌊Howden Reservoirs🌊Alport Castles 10 Mile Walk🌲

Our scenic walk with stunning views and varied terrain starts near Derwent Dam.
The route climbs up through woodland and emerges on a woodland path alongside the spectacular Upper Derwent Reservoir.
This beautiful area, the Upper Derwent Valley, is known for its majestic reservoirs and spectacular scenery of forests and wild open spaces.
The path continues alongside the Upper Derwent and soon joins Howden Reservoir and Dam.
One half of Howden Reservoir lies in Derbyshire and the other half is in South Yorkshire. The picturesque Howden Dam was completed in 1912.
The route follows the majestic Howden Reservoir until it veers off and ascends through woodland to emerge on wild open moorland.

The path climbs gradually across moorland to reach the famous Alport Castles.
The Alport Castles are a spectacular formation of rocks formed from a great landslip, over half a mile long, it's thought to be the largest landslide in the UK.
These rocky tottering towers and eroded rock faces are thought to be one of the geological highlights of the Peak District.
The rock faces were once used for climbing, but crumbling and unstable they stand peacefully alone, but give a welcome home to peregrine falcons nesting in the craggs.

As the path approaches, Birchin Hat escarpment comes into view, a chaotic landscape of fallen boulders.
The most impressive feature is the Tower, a rock pinnacle which actually looks like a man-made medieval fortress, a scramble to the top of the Tower, but not safe to do so, the views are magnificent all around. Looking beneath the Tower, lies a mountain tarn called Alport Mere.

Leaving these silent sentinels to stand guard in this wild moorland, the route descends to the River Alport and Alport Castle Farm.

The return route follows the River Alport across pastures and moorland crossing the river and ford.
The route continues across farmland tors and coppices, ending through dense woodland which emerges at Ladybower Reservoir with a short walk back to the start at Fairholmes Carpark.

A challenging walk in some parts, with gradual ascents and some steep climbs. But good paths along the Reservoirs
Expect moorland trails riverside woodland and rocky paths
Suitable for anyone who likes a bit of a challenge

Catching up points as always and lots of stops and breaks along the way

Bring a picnic lunch and plenty of water and snacks to keep you going.

Toilets at the start at Fairholmes Visitor Centre

Walking boots are essential, a walking pole is helpful.
As always check the weather and dress accordingly

My number for any queries or problems 07505143980

Disclaimer

Everyone participating on this walk, does so at their own risk. Each person is responsible for their own personal safety as well as any medical conditions. Whilst the Group Leader endeavors to keep everyone safe by recceing the route, checking weather conditions and the route for potential hazards underfoot, the Group Leader and the Derbyshire Walkers' Group accept no liability or responsibility for any accidents or injuries to Members or Guests occuring on the walk or participation in any Group activity.

Our four-legged friends are always welcome 🦮🐕🦮

Look forward to seeing you all on our next adventure..👨‍🦯👩‍🦯🐕🦮🏞⛰️