Yougrave

We begin at the hamlet of Alport, where the Rivers Lathkill and Bradford meet. Walking along the riverside path until we meet a lane, we follow this lane briefly and then turn left onto The Limestone Way. Walking uphill across fields there are pleasant views of the surrounding area, then we take the path through a wood, continuing until meeting a lane. Turning right onto the lane and going uphill for a short way we then take a path on our left, alongside a field where there is a stone circle called Nine Stones Close or Grey Ladies circle. We carry on to  Robin Hood’s Stride,(also known as Mock Beggar’s Mansion because from a distance it looks like a house with 2 chimneys) the gritstone outcrop where legend has it that Robin Hood leapt between the two towers on either side of it. We will have a break here, and then there is the opportunity to explore and clamber to the top, as well as taking the path opposite up Cratcliffe Rocks and being rewarded with wonderful views. The Hermit’s Cave is at the base of the rocks (it has a metal grille across it).

Moving on we follow the path downhill to a road then bear right up Dudwood Lane and make our way to Elton. There is a path across fields, but we could use the lane if it’s very muddy!  From the church in Elton we cross farm fields to Cliff Lane. There is a point of interest here: Burycliffe Troughs where spring water emerges from the hillside. The villagers used to draw drinking water and carry the buckets back up the hill, and some was transported by cart. There is also info about a motorcycle champion who was born and raised in Elton. A few yards along we take the footpath left along the base of Anthony Hill and here we will stop for our lunch break and there is the chance to explore the hill. Afterwards we continue down to Cliff Farm and then skirt the edge of Tomlinson Wood.

Then the path crosses several fields as we had towards the caravan park by Hopping Farm.  Following the path signposted to Middleton Dale we go across a field and then alongside a stream on our left to go down steps then turn into the beautiful Bradford Dale. Another interesting feature here is the stone books in the wall by the sheep dip. This is one of 17 Sites of Meaning which can be found on the boundary of the parish of Middleton and Smerrill.

After crossing a lovely stone bridge we go left uphill into the village of Youlgrave. There are public toilets at the top on the left with a donation box outside. Interestingly, there have been many different spellings of Youlgrave over the years, with Youlgreave seen commonly and there is a road sign at Newhaven which says Youlegreave. There may be time for a visit to the pub – there is The Farmyard Inn, The Bull’s Head Hotel and The George Hotel. Then it’s about half a mile’s walk to the bus at Alport. Take care walking along the road especially if dark has fallen as the pavement is narrow and in places there isn’t one and the road is narrow and often busy.  Alternatively, we could carry on along the river to Alport instead of going up to Youlgrave if preferred, or if we run out of time. There is a shortcut if needed which would branch off to Youlgrave at the edge of Bleakley Plantation to pass by Mawstone Farm which  would cut out the Bradford Dale section and be about one mile shorter. The bus leaves for home at 4.30pm.

We welcome new people to the club. If it’s your first walk with us the coach fare will be free. After that the fare is £14.