Bretton Clough and Eyam Ramble

Today’s walk of approximately 9 miles begins near the Plough Inn at Leadmill. After a short stretch along the  main road we turn right onto a lane which passes by the 17th century Hazelford Hall. We continue along a track, with picturesque views of the surrounding hills. Our route takes us through woodland with Highlow Brook on our right, to Stoke Ford, where we may want to have a break.       

     Afterwards we carry on through Bretton Clough. Legend has it that in 1745 the farmers of Eyam hid their cattle in this secluded clough to avoid being discovered by Bonnie Prince Charlie’s troops as they invaded the country. Upon reaching the top of the clough we continue uphill to a lane which leads us to Sir William Hill road. The scenery along here is magnificent, with beautiful views of both the Dark and White Peak. We take a footpath on our right to cross fields and descend through a wooded area and farmland to reach Eyam, the historical plague village. Time for another break here, where there are tearooms and pubs to offer refreshments. 

     The next section of our walk follows a path along Eyam Dale towards Stoney Middleton and then going down to the main road. We then walk along the base of the limestone cliff, passing Carlswark Cave and we could look for the small cave called Hobbit Hole. After crossing the main road we continue up a steep  footpath which has ropes at the side to help if the ground is slippery. At the top of the footpath there are impressive views of a large quarry which has been turned into a nature reserve.   

    In 2021 a dramatic train crash scene was shot in the quarry for the Mission Impossible part 7 film   starring Tom Cruise. We then go down to Stoney Middleton church and across fields to Calver village, finishing at the Derwentwater Arms. 

   A shorter option is from Leadmill across Eyam Moor and meeting up with the main group at Eyam, then shortening the afternoon walk by omitting the climb up to the quarry and meeting at the Derwentwater Arms, with the coach leaving for home at 4.15 pm.

As always we are keen to welcome new walkers. No need to pre-book, just turn up at one of the following stops.

Coach fare is only £12 payable on the return journey.

Coach Departure

The coach picks up at the following points.
(With the agreement of the leader other pick-up points
on the bus route may be available).

“Staff of Life” pub, Hack Lane	Sutton-in-Ashfield	9.15am
Priestic Road, opp McDonald’s	Sutton-in-Ashfield	9.20am
Eastfield Side, (Blue Bell)	Sutton-in-Ashfield	9.22am
Hermitage Lane stop, Sutton Road	Mansfield	9.25am
ASDA bus stop. Stockwell Gate.	Mansfield	9.30am