David and Jacinta's Walks- 2025

Alport Castles It was difficult to know how rainy and misty it was going to be, so we headed for Fairholmes as there is a range of walks to do from there. We decided to head up to Alport Castles. The route through the woods was pleasant with a multitude of autumnal leaves and pine needles which Jacinta has her eye on to put around the recently planted blueberry bushes. On the way to Lockerbrook Farm As the path opened up along Rowlee Pasture, we had some excellent panoramic views all around, although this was interspersed with rain and buffeting winds. Just before path up Rowlee Pasture Distant view of Back Tor and Mam Tor The final path up to Alport Castles is quite exposed and the strength of the wind was considerable. On this occasion, we could not linger at the top and instead made our way down Birchinlee Pasture a little to have a breather at a shooting hide. Looking for a sheltered spot for lunch on Birchinlee Pasture From this point, progress was easy as we went down to the Howd...

 Alport Castles and the Derwent Reservoirs The last time we visited Alport Castles via our proposed route was in January 2024, so now seemed the time to undertake it again. It is an excellent shortish route and the views, especially on a clear day, are spectacular. We had a brief commune with the ducks at Fairholmes and some sharing of parkin crumbs. Greedy ducks The walk then began with the walk up towards Lockerbrook Outdoor Centre, guided with (decorated) finger posts. Flower Power on the way up to Lockerbrook It was lovely to see the fresh growth on the fir trees. In a short time the views open out and are very impressive. The weather was cold, but not too bad and we made good progress up the hill and on to the open country. The path levels and the views it provides of the edges of the High Peak are worth seeing. The northern edge of Kinder, up to Fairbrook Naze The Great Ridge (Lose Hill and Back Tor in the gloom, Mam Tor in the sun)  Again, as in recent walks, there are ...