Tideswell-Dales-Litton 8 Mile Circular

by Jock Munro
2 years ago
Near Blackwell, GB

31 views

A challenging walk through a less well known Derbyshire dale - Monk's Dale.

The route starts in the peak village of tideswell and starts with a fairly steep walk along a country lane west out of the village onto high ground giving great views of the surrounding area. After about a mile the lane drops gently down to the head of Monk's Dale. The route then follows Monk's Dale down towards Miller's Dale. For most of the way it is very hard difficult under foot with damp slippery moss covered rock paths which are quite muddy in places. Stout boots are a must and a walking stick/pole is recommended. There is also some scrabbling required to pass fallen trees. Despite the necessary slow progress this dale is alive with woodland birds, insects and animals and makes the difficulties in travelling well worthwhile. We exit Monks Dale into Miller's Dale and take advantage of a pint at the nearby Angler's Arms which caters well for walkers and cyclists.

Our route resumes eastwards along the easy country lanes of Miller's Dale before turning into a picturesque riverside track running along the river Wye past Litton Mill. It then leaves the river path to take a higher route (thereby avoiding an very muddy section) before re-emerging onto the lane above Cressbrook Mill. A steep climb up the lane begins lasting for approximately 3/4 mile and ending with a very steep series of steps onto the tops just southeast of Litton village. A very pleasant easy walk across meadows follows before leading up into the village itself with the opportunity for refreshments at the nearby pub and cafe.

The final part of the route is another easy walk along country lanes north into Tideswell allowing for great long distance views of the countryside as we drop back down to end our walk for today.