Manifold Valley
12 June 2022
This varied and scenic 13 mile walk takes in some of the best countryside in the White Peak area. We start from Hulme End, at the northern end of the Manifold Valley. (Toilets available). A short walk along the valley limbers up the legs for an uphill path leading to the top of Ecton Hill. There are several remnants of the once thriving copper mining industry. The views from the summit trig. pillar are excellent. We then stay on high ground and follow a route across ‘open access’ land, before descending down the valley at Wettonmill. We will have a lunch break here. There is a cafe, toilets and riverside picnic areas. Leaving Wettonmill, we follow the path which runs along the former line of the Manifold Light Railway. We cross Weag’s Bridge and then walk over the – by now – dry riverbed, of the River Manifold. A steepish climb leads us past Beeston Tor, and onwards to the village of Wetton. From here we follow meadows to Windlegate Hollow, and then a track up into Alstonefield. Field paths then lead us to the stepped, steep path down Gypsy Bank, and into Wolfscote Dale. The final part of the route follows the River Dove (or if time allows we may go via Biggin Dale) to our destination of Hartington. There may be time for a drink before we board the coach home at 6pm. See below for coach pick-up points. No need to book, just turn up at your most convenient bus stop. (fare is £12).
| “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 |
