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The famous "Dambusters" dam and the open moors of Derwent Edge
The famous "Dambusters" dam and the open moors of Derwent Edge
Maximum group size - 8 people
Maximum group size - 8 people
This great guided walk starts from Fairholmes car park at the top end of Ladybower Reservoir near Bamford, Derbyshire. Before we head to the hills we will take time to visit the famous Derwent Reservoir dam where the “Dambusters” of the Royal Air Force 617 Squadron practiced 75 years ago this spring.
From the dam we head along the shore of Derwent Reservoir before the 300m/1500ft climb up onto the glorious Derwent Edge. The climb up is mostly gradual and on a clear day provides great views of the surrounding region.
Once on the ridge we pass the "Lost Lad" cairn and then follow a good paved path through the peat and heather landscape with a good chance for spotting some of the local wildlife. The views continue all the way along the ridge as we pass the various rocky tors and beautifully shaped rocks such as Back Tor, the Cakes of Bread, Dove Stone, and the Salt Cellar to name but a few.
From the end of the ridge we wind our way gradually back down to Ladybower Reservoir and our return to Fairholmes passing the site of the old submerged village of Derwent.
Walk Details
Walk Details
Meet: near kiosk at Fairholmes car park at 08:45 for an 09:00 start
Grade: Moderate
Length: 12km/7.5miles
Height Gain: 300m/1000ft
Price: £49
Price: £49
Terrain
Terrain
The walk is mostly on good footpaths with some rougher sections and includes one ascent of about 300m/1000ft. At any time of year there could to be some muddy sections.
Recommended Equipment & Clothing
Recommended Equipment & Clothing
Appropriate walking clothing to keep you warm on the day (no jeans as they can be cold if wet).
Waterproof jacket.
Waterproof trousers.
Spare warm layers (several thinner layers are more versatile than 1 thick).
Walking boots (some areas are rough and uneven so boots that go above the ankle, providing good ankle support, are recommended rather than low cut walking/trail shoes. Boots will also keep your feet drier than walking shoes in boggy/muddy areas). No Trainers.
Warm hat and gloves or sun hat if sunny.
Food, drink and snacks for the day. We will have a couple of food stops whilst out on the hill.
Personal first aid kit (for minor cuts, blisters, sun cream, pain relief and any personal medication).
Rucksack with waterproof liner/bag.
Money for parking and/or cafe
Hand sanitiser and face covering recommended A face mask/covering does not need to be worn, however whilst virus levels remain high it would be recommended in emergency situations to help protect people whilst providing first aid or assistance, or when entering busy cafes and toilet areas.
Optional additions: camera, gaiters and/or walking poles if you have them.
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