Walk: 11am to 2:45pm - 6.5 miles
Friday had come around at last, and this week it was better than most as it's the start of my 7 days off work. However, there is a sting in the tail as when I go back next Friday I'm in for 8 out of 9 including two 12hr weekend days - that said, I don't really care as it's great to have this run of days off. Donna had been off this week which wasn't great timing, but we made the most of the day off together going for a steady walk in the Peaks, particularly enticing as the weather forecast was so good.
We arrived in the small village of Shatton (and yes that is a real name) at around 10:45am, parking up in the lay-by just off the main road, then proceeding to put plenty of clothes on as the temperature gauge in the car was reading -4c. I had my Berghaus base layer on, a thin Regatta fleece and my thicker soft-shell, with a waterproof coat packed in my bag. Plus, I had a neck-warmer on, a thick 'trappers' hat and gloves. Before we left home I'd persuaded my wife to take a 4th layer 'just in case' so she was also suitably 'togged up'
We followed the road up through the village in a westerly direction, then over a stream and along a track heading towards Brough. The walking was great as it was solid underfoot - however great care was needed on the heavily iced sections as they were frequent and 'very' slippy. It really was a joy to be out walking with such great scenery, great company, and great weather. There was hardly a cloud in the sky. We then took a track through Elmore Hill Farm, where the farmer had been very helpful and clearly marked the path through his/her property. We were only a short way into the walk but I'd already removed my soft-shell, neck-warmer and hat, and we hadn't even started climbing.
The next couple of miles or so were really enjoyable walking, along a clear track and although the first mile or so was a climb, it was never steep and we only rose about 350-400ft - just enough to get a little out of breath. Just before Abney Moor we took a sharp left northwards heading around Shatton Edge towards the TV transmitter which dominates the skyline. Now if the tower wasn't there, and the buildings were converted into a residence - what a place it would be to live with absolutely stunning views taking in Hathersage, Stanage Edge, Bamford Moor, and over to Win Hill and then the Great Ridge running from Lose Hill to the mighty Mam Tor. Spectacular!
We were now on the homeward leg, heading steadily downhill towards Offerton Hall, the path was undulating and a little slippy on top where the sun had melted the top layer of the ground. At the start of this section we'd 'set up camp' on a ledge and had some crusty bread and tomato soup...and a cereal bar each. I could only imagine how nice it would be to be laying there on a picnic blanket under the summer sun - maybe that's a plan for later in the year.
After taking a left downhill after Offerton Hall, we passed a field with 3 inquisitive horses in it, one of whom did enjoy a nibble at Donna's hand. The last section saw us follow the river Noe as it meandered it's way back to Shatton. A nice relaxing end to the walk, and a really enjoyable walk overall. Not too strenuous, few people about, and stunning views and weather. On Sunday I'm planning to head up onto Kinder with my mate Darrell, so we have our fingers crossed that the promised snow on Saturday isn't too disruptive.
More photos can be found via here.
Ben Nevis Charity Walk
Friday had come around at last, and this week it was better than most as it's the start of my 7 days off work. However, there is a sting in the tail as when I go back next Friday I'm in for 8 out of 9 including two 12hr weekend days - that said, I don't really care as it's great to have this run of days off. Donna had been off this week which wasn't great timing, but we made the most of the day off together going for a steady walk in the Peaks, particularly enticing as the weather forecast was so good.
More photos can be found via here.
Ben Nevis Charity Walk
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