Hiking along Derwent Edge

Route: Ladybower Reservoir and Derwent Edge

Meet at: Cutthroat Bridge Layby on the south side of the A57 between the Strines turn off and the Ladybower Inn, OS map reference SK216847, approx postcode S33 0AX. There is always plenty room to park in the layby. As an environmentally conscious group, we actively encourage car sharing. Further details of car sharing arrangements from Sheffield, Manchester and elsewhere will appear in the comments section nearer the time.

This exciting circular hike takes us along the shores of Ladybower Reservoir before ascending to the lofty heights of Derwent Edge where there are wonderful views to be enjoyed as well as a series of spectacular gritstone outcrops to play about on.

The full day will include a gentle stroll through Ladybower Wood, an extended scenic walk along the east bank of Ladybower Reservoir taking in the hamlet of Ashopton and some highly picturesque woodland before leaving the water’s edge to make a long energetic ascent of the hillside to Lost Lad Hillend and the beginning of Derwent Edge (at an altitude of more than 500 metres, one of the highest places in South Yorkshire) then a long hike offering some of the finest views in the Peak District while passing the magnificent rock formations of Back Tor (with some bouldering fun on offer), Dovestone Tor (with options for some easy rock climbing), White Tor and Whinstone Lee Tor (with the opportunity to do a bold Grade 3 scramble to reach the summit) before a long leisurely descent over moorland and through woods on the way back to our starting point. Optional social visit to a local pub or cafe afterwards.

Photos of some of our previous outings to Derwent Edge can be seen here:

https://www.meetup.com/sheffield-mountaineering-rock-climbing-meet/photos/34030351/

https://www.meetup.com/Sheffield-Mountaineering-Rock-Climbing-Meet/photos/31043255/

https://www.meetup.com/Sheffield-Mountaineering-Rock-Climbing-Meet/photos/30646186/

Difficulty: This outing can be done as an easy hike with no technical difficulties making it perfectly suitable for beginners and dogs. However if you are looking for a bit more excitement, as mentioned above, there will be plenty opportunities for some optional scrambling, bouldering and easy grade solo (unroped) rock climbing all along the route.

Experience Required: No previous experience required. All you need is a reasonable level of fitness, sense of adventure and preparation for any weather.

Duration: Approx. 15 km with height gain of approx. 500 metres. Estimated time 5 to 6 hours.

Ordnance Survey Map: Dark Peak Area OL1 Explorer Map 1:25 000 Scale.

As always, if everybody wants to contribute £2.00 towards our Meet Up site fees and other operating costs that will be great, thanks.