Challenge Walk, Castleton, Peak District | 20th December

Join a sponsored walk, hosted by BMC Peak District Hill Walking Rep, Alex Davis-Ward.

This challenge walk is a circular walk and will start and finish at Castleton, following a short section of the limestone way we will make our way to Tideswell then joining the pennine bridleway we will make our way to Rushup Edge, continuing we will walk along the broken road and back into Castleton.

There will be 3 stops one of which will be a pub stop. Approximately 20 minutes rest at each stop.

(This is a fairly flat walk with some hills with a overall ascent of approximately 1800 metres over 18 miles. A constant 3mph walk speed will be required)

The challenge is to race the sun back to Castleton, we’re excited to welcome you for a memorable day in the outdoors!

Alex is a qualified Hill & Moorland Leader and the BMC Peak District Hill Walking Rep. He leads walks on behalf of the BMC and other organisations and is now working towards his Mountain Leader qualification.

Alex has achieved the NNAS gold navigation award and the NNAS tutor award, and has completed many walking challenges, including a 50-mile challenge in 22 hours, which was self-navigated and completed in 18 hours.

Alex mainly leads walks in the Derbyshire Peaks but also leads walks elsewhere. As an ex drystone waller, he has always been interested in the outdoors and in the history of different areas.

Alex believes the best way to see, discover and explore, is on foot.

Walk Details

Walk Grading: Challenging

Distance: Approx 29 km (18 miles)

Ascent: 1800 m (5,900 ft)

Duration: Approximately 8 hours

If you or anyone in your party can’t attend after booking, please let us know so we can offer the place to others

Meeting Details

Time: Sunday 20 December, 08:00 am for a 08:10 am start

Location: Castleton Visitor Centre, Castleton, Hope Valley, S33 8WH

OS Grid Ref: SK 149 829

Google map pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bi4ZWhLXfGS8Dcmr9

Parking: Pay and display; payment options include cash or the PayByPhone app. Free parking may be available elsewhere in the village

Please check out the BMC Liftshare service

Facilities: Toilets are available at the car park

What to Bring

We’ll cover a range of terrains, so please ensure you are well-prepared with appropriate gear

Footwear: Sturdy, water-resistant hiking boots or shoes with good grip

Clothing: Dress in layers, including waterproofs, as conditions can vary; bring a hat and gloves for cooler areas

Food and Drink: Bring enough food and water for a full day’s hike; there will be no places to purchase refreshments en route

Other Essentials: Although we plan to finish within daylight hours, carrying a small torch or head torch is advisable for emergencies

Who Can Attend

Anyone, Under 18's must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Well behaved dogs are welcome but must be always kept under close control, please indicate on your booking if you will be bringing a dog

Health Precautions: If you have any health conditions that might impact your participation, please inform us in advance. Carry any required medications, and let the walk leader know if assistance may be needed in accessing them

If you are unsure of your ability or would like advice regarding kit and suitability for this walk, please email the leader in advance

Tickets are sold at £25.00 each with the sponsorship target of each participant being £75.00. The member who raises the most will be added to the prizedraw:

https://www.thebmc.co.uk/en/wildfire-fundraiser-prizes-2026

BMC Participation Statement

The BMC recognises that climbing, hill walking and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or death. Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions and involvement

Photographs may be taken by the leader for future communications about the programme. If you do not wish for your photograph to be taken please let the leader know in advance or at the start of the walk

By participating in this walk you agree to act in a kind and inclusive manner. Bullying, discrimination or the use of foul language will not be tolerated

Questions

Feel free to contact BMC Hill Walking Rep, Alex: davis-ward@protonmail.com