Todays walk in detail

18 walkers set off from Rowsley with a long steady climb up to Chesterfield Lane then through the woods towards Tinkersley before dropping down to cross over the River Derwent, then past the Peak Railway and on to Churchtown, Darley Dale where coffee break was taken in the lovely church yard of St Helen's church where the bells were pealing. We then skirted the cricket ground before starting the next climb past the old quarry and old pumping station taking on the battle against ferns and nettles then over fields until we reached the Cork Stone and headed on to the Nine Ladies Stone Circle where lunch was taken in the first rain we've seen for weeks. After lunch we started the steady downhill and enjoyed the views towards Haddon Hall before descending back to Rowsley where refreshments were taken in the Grouse & Claret. Thanks to Andrew, Roy and Jenny for joining me on the recce, to Andrew for back marking on the day and to everyone who supported my first Sunday walk lead and made it so enjoyable.