Social Walk up Derwent Edge, Peak District | 9th August

Come join us to explore the Upper Derwent Valley

You are invited to join a peer-led walk, hosted by BMC Peak District volunteer, Anne Kemp-Eyre. Starting at Fairholmes Car Park the route heads past the impressive Derwent Dam, we will then follow the Upper Derwent Reservoir for roughly 1 km, keeping the water on your left as the path gently rises. After leaving the reservoir track, the path begins to climb steadily onto the Derwent Edges. You’ll pass Lost Lad, a classic viewpoint with a cairn and a windswept feel, before continuing up to Back Tor (538m) — one of the most distinctive high points in the area. If the weather plays along, the views across the Upper Derwent Valley and deep into the Peak District are superb.

Once on the ridge, the walk becomes a scenic gritstone parade. You’ll pass iconic formations including: Dovestone Tor, Salt Cellar & Wheel Stones. This section is all about big skies, rugged rock shapes, and long views. We will then descent to Ladybower. Eventually the path drops back down into the valley, meeting the shores of Ladybower Reservoir. The final stretch is a relaxed walk along the water’s edge, looping back toward Fairholmes.

We’re excited to welcome you for a memorable day in the outdoors!

Anne has been in love with hill walking for as long as she can remember - she tackled her first long-distance walk at just 11 years of age and never looked back. Now a qualified Hill & Moorland Leader, Anne has hiked in many different parts of the world - from the Alps, the Rockies and the Himalayas.

Anne’s passion is to design mindful, wellbeing focused hikes that invite people to breathe, slow their pace, and rediscover the joy of being outdoors.

She spends time in the Peak District every week and believes being in nature is essential for her physical and mental wellbeing. Anne has been a registered nurse for over 25 years, qualified as a yoga teacher 4 years ago and is a forest bathing guide.

Walk Details

Walk Grading: Moderate

Distance: Approx. 15 km (9.5 miles)

Ascent: 475 m (1,560 ft)

Duration: Approximately 6 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 9th August, 09:50 am for a 10:00 am start

Location: Severn Trent car park, Fairholmes, Bamford, Derbyshire, S33 0AQ

OS Grid Ref: SK 17370 88931

Google map pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1BDnS5DhJLDqA3Qj9

Parking: Over 4 hours, £7 pay via cash and card. Please check out the BMC Liftshare service

Facilities: Public toilets and a café in the car park

Public Transport: Yes

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 a warm layer and waterproofs, as conditions can vary; bring a hat and gloves

Food and Drink: Bring enough food and water for a full day’s walk; 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. Sun cream is advisable on warmer days.

Who Can Attend

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

This walk incurs a £2 donation fee towards our hill walking projects. If you are unable to pay this fee, please contact us in advance, and we will anonymously include you for free

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 Walk Leader, Anne: anne.friendshipyoga@gmail.com