Lumsdale
5 January 2025
Our walk starts form Bentley Bridge, which is on the A622 Matlock to Chesterfield road. We head for the beautiful pine woods over looking Bentley Brook with great views of Riber Castle and the Derwent Valley. We head towards Tansley and turn south, following the wooded stream and then across fields to the bottom of Lumbsdale. In the past members with wellingtons have waded up the stream, but we will not have time on this occasion. We follow the steps up the side of this beautiful wooded gorge looking at probably the best waterfalls in the Peak District. The highlight for some of you will be to visit the “Wishing Stone” where you can make your secret wishes for the New Year.
We then will take pleasant paths to Matlock Cliff, follow the cobbled road up to the Church and through the grounds to the War Memorial and zig -zag down to the river Derwent, We cross the bridge and follow the road into Matlock, and Hall Ley Gardens, where we will stop for lunch. Cafes available or sandwiches eaten in the bandstand.
After a 30 minute break we will go over the main road bridge and walk over Shining Cliff and go south to Upper Town, with more outstanding views overlooking the Derwent Valley. Down to Matlock Bath for a short break and then over High Tor. Giddy Edge could be an option for the more adventurous.
The walk then follows the river into Matlock were the coach will pick us up about 4.15 pm. The length of the walk is slightly over 9 miles. Shorter routes will be readily available. Do not be put off by any poor weather forecast. Most of the route is sheltered and any rain may not be wet!! – by Alan Woods.
New walkers are always very welcome. No need to book, just turn up at one of the bus stops listed below. Coach fare is £12. Happy New Year.
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 |
