Group Walk

Central England / Derbyshire

Anytime Anywhere

18ml.

08.30

Cromford Canal Wharf/car park (GBP4.80 or free on-street), Mill Road, opposite Cromford Mills and St Mary's church, Cromford, Derbyshire, DE4 3RQ

Leaving Cromford Wharf, the route goes the way of the High Peak Trail, Black Rocks, Bole Hill, Wirksworth, Alport Heights, Blackbrook, The Portway above Belper, Duffield, River Derwent, Allestree Park, Dale Abbey Park and after reaching Derby returns to Cromford by train from the railway station (fare is currently £6.70; approx £4.40 with railcard)

This is a new anytime challenge dedicated to and in memory of the late Alan S Edwards, who devised seven wonderful routes in a variety of the best locations in Derbyshire/Staffordshire. Over the years Anytime Anywhere has staged them all and as such seven superb days out have been enjoyed by many people. Alan, in the guide to his T'Owd Man's Walk from Cromford, mentions a satisfying route he did from Wirksworth to Derby, which, if longer, might be an idea for yet another anytime challenge. Sadly, he never got the chance to expand on it. However, in tribute to Alan and his great works, I have picked up the baton and walked with it from his beloved Cromford to Derby. I believe that I have done Alan's memory and creativity proud with my effort. I do hope so