Lathkill and Bradford dale are famous for their wild flowers in early summer, so let's take the time to enjoy them. From Youlgreave we first cut across the fields to Conksbury Bridge, then climb up to Over Haddon for a beautiful view of the valley below. After that there's a steep drop into Lathkill Dale, where we follow the river upstream through the woods before the water disappears underground and we continue into the dry upper dale, home to many rare species of flowers.
We then double back on ourselves along the Limestone Way, taking us from Lathkill Dale to Bradford Dale. Time permitting, we may continue to Middleton to see the well dressings, a White Peak tradition where pictures are made out of flowers and other natural materials to celebrate the wells that brought water to the villages. We then follow the path along the riverside back to Youlgreave, where there is a small swimming area if we need to cool down at the end of the walk. But be warned, it's very cold!
NOTICE: This walk will include lots of stopping to look at and identify wild flowers, and so will take longer than usual. However there could be some faster paced walking if we need to make up time due to too much looking at pretty flowers. Before Covid there was ice cream sold along this route – bring cash if you want to see if it's still available.
This walk isn’t feasible by public transport – the walk leader is going to arrange car shares with everybody meeting at Bolsover Street, behind the Arts Tower, at 09:15.
If you would like to attend, please text the walk leader on the number below (please do not use Facebook Messenger) and let him know:
1) If you need a lift to the walk start, if you can offer a lift to others, or if you will make your way to the walk start alone.
2) If you can offer others a lift, how many people you can take
Leader: Peter C (07875 656963)
Distance: 10.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Start/End: All Saints’ Church, Youlgreave
Transport: This walk isn’t feasible by public transport so car sharing is being organised.