Phil D (07923953338)
Moderate. 7.5 - 10 miles
Meet at 09:35 for a 09:40 start.
Fairholmes car park at the Upper Derwent visitor centre S33 OAQ
A visit to the landslip formations of Alport Castles, the iconic outcrop known as The Tower with an optional extension to Westend Moor trig point, hopefully catching a glimpse of some birds of prey. Complimentary Liquorice Allsorts included.
From Fairholmes car park and visitor centre, we’ll go up onto the Rowlee Pasture ascending to Alport Castles. After absorbing the view over the River Alport and the quirky features of this dramatic valley, we then have the option to dip onto the Bleaklow Plateau by reaching Westend Moor trig point (505m). This extension adds a total 2.5 miles to the walk (counting for there and back again from Alport Castles) – we can decide on this together, on the day, upon assessment of the conditions and how we are feeling.
If the weather allows we may be treated to decent views of Derwent Dam, connecting reservoirs and the surrounding moorland of the Upper Derwent Valley.
Our return leads us down past Alport Castles Farm (cue a fun fact of the day), following the River Alport which meets the River Ashop as we tread lower paths and tracks back to the car park completing the circular.
I believe there is a cafe at the visitor centre for our ‘debrief’ but there are also options for a cheeky pint at a pub en route home.
As this walk takes place in December. Christmas hats are fair game!
KIT – the usual prep of waterproof and windproof layers (inc. Hat/gloves), sturdy footwear with good grip, food and water (flask of hot drink advisable)
TERRAIN – this area is renowned for severely muddy and boggy routes (as am I!).
ASCENT – highest point is the potential extension, 505m at Westend Moor trig point. Our total ascent from the starting point will be no more than 300m.
Public transport or car sharing options: I am advised that the 257 bus service leaves Moorhead bus stop in Sheffield at 08:58 arriving directly outside the Fairholmes car park at 09:32. However, please double check the reliability of this nearer the time as I am not familiar with buses from the Sheffield area first hand.
I can offer lifts to up to 3 people depending on where you live, feel free to drop me a message to arrange this if you'd like one.