We visit Carl Wark, believed to be an Iron Age hill fort. It stands on a plateau with natural fortifications on 3 sides and a wall built of huge boulders, strengthened by an earth ramp on the fourth side. From there we follow the path up onto Higger Tor for fine views across the Burbage Basin and to the gritstone edges beyond. Next it is on to the trig point at the eastern end of the famous Stanage Edge. Again for great views over the Hope Valley and its surrounding hills. The abandoned millstones that we pass on the way are fascinating. Millstones were produced in this area in huge numbers from the 14th century through to mid 18th century, and the millstone is now the official symbol of the Peak District National Park.
After a scenic walk along Burbage Edge, we enter the Longshaw Estate for a complete contrast of scenery. The estate once belonged to the Duke of Rutland, but is now owned and managed by the National Trust who have a nice tea room and shop conveniently situated along the route of our walk. The Estate countryside is traditional English parkland, complete with a little lake, and gently sloping down to a woodland path which takes us down to Grindleford. We end our walk with a stroll through meadows in the Derwent Valley back to Hathersage.
This is a great walk at any time of year, but during August and September is even more special as the moors are carpeted by the purple flowers of the ling heather.
The route we usually take is about 10 miles/16 kilometres with approx 400 metres of ascent.
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