Alport Castles, Derwent Dam, Ladybower (11 Miles, Moderate)

Alport Castles is one of those must-see locations in the Peak District. It's a bit of a shocker that the Marauders are only now making our first visit.

The idea is to spend a little time at the impressive rock formation at Alport, letting people tackle the simple scramble to the top of the tower. It's easy enough but a little hairy if you're not fond of heights.

The rest of the walk is well worth the trip, even if you don't fancy the scramble, with plenty of ups and down, with views over the mighty Derwent Dam and Reservoir, plus a trek through Alport Dale and alongside the River Ashop.

After the hike we'll retire to the Ladybower Inn for a post-walk tipple.

Note: there's limited internet access at the start so you might not be able to contact me if you're running late.

Meeting point

9:45am at the Fairholmes Carpark under the Derwent Dam.

Toilets and refreshments available at the start.

Parking

The carpark is £7 for the day.

The formerly free lay-bys up the road are now £6.70 all day or thereabouts so I'm afraid it's a charge wherever you park these days.

Public transport

The Sheffield to Bakewell 257 bus stops at the Ladybower Inn so shout up if you're taking public transport and need a lift from there.

Dogs

Well behaved dogs are welcome on the walk and in the pub afterwards.

What to bring

Please bring a packed lunch, water and appropriate clothing/footwear for the weather and terrain.

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DISCLAIMER

Please acknowledge the following:
• The walk is entirely free of charge. You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses.
• Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part).
• Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself.
• Walk distances can be up to 15 miles or more and we can be out for as long as 5-7 hours.
• We usually stop for a packed lunch and pop in to a country pub for a post or mid-hike drink.

Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section!

Here's a guide to the difficult rating:

• Easy - Short distance, less than ten miles and mostly flat. Suitable for anyone capable of a brisk stroll.

• Moderately Easy - Shortish distance, around ten miles, some gentle hills. For those who walk regularly but don't have too much hiking experience.

• Moderate - Between ten and twelve miles, a few decent hills with potentially steep sections. For those with some hiking experience.

• Moderately Challenging - Longer distance, twelve miles or over with lots of hills. Suitable for hikers who enjoy being out for most of the day.

• Challenging - Around fifteen miles or more, with hills, mountains and maybe the odd scramble. For experienced hikers who like pushing themselves.

• Hard - Long distance, sometimes over twenty miles, with mountains and difficult terrain. Only suitable for fit, experienced hikers.

IMPORTANT
Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organised by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is not a business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone. By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer.