Hill Walk: High Peak Junction & Wirksworth Moor

Hill Walk: High Peak Junction & Wirksworth Moor

Undulating Peak District circular ramble near the Derbyshire Town of Cromford, incorporating a range of landscapes, including rock formations, heathland, pastureland and canal towpath. Overnight stop possible to combine with Sunday walk.

Logistics:
Meet: Check-In 10:25, for prompt start within 10 minutes.
Distance: Around 9 or 10 miles
Start Point: High Peak Junction car park on Lea Road, DE4 5AA, about one mile west of Holloway Village
Parking: As above, noting this is situated very close to the main A6, but can't actually be accessed by car from the A6. From the West Midlands, travel north up the A38 to the A610, and later turn right at Bullbridge
Route: Firstly a picturesque wooded climb of 250 metres, along the High Peak Trail, past Black Rock and up to the trig point. From here we descend towards Wirksworth, and climb again slightly towards the mid-distance pub stop. We then head due east over Wirksworth Moor, woodland and farmland to meet the Cromford Canal (disused) which leads us back along the Derwent Valley Heritage Way to the start/end point. Strenuous in places but not gruelling.
Refreshments: Picnic stop midway, and pub stop (not for meals).
Bring: Waterproofs & Refreshments & Good walking footwear, and clothing to match the weather.
Guests: Under 16s & dogs (under control) may attend as guests.
Emergency Contact: 078.137.37.623, though not available while driving or for lateness problems. Today's walk leader is Paul W.

RoadMap: [Streetmap.co.uk - Map of 431503,356163](https://streetmap.co.uk/map?x=431503&y=356163&z=120&sv=431503,356163&st=4&ar=y&mapp=map&searchp=ids&dn=697&ax=431503&ay=356163&lm=0)
EarthView: Lea Rd - Google Maps

Stop Over Option
We also have a nearby walk on Sunday (26 Oct) so you are welcome to attend both and stay overnight in Matlock on Saturday, where we can meet up in the evening. Driving both days is also fine, as this is not an excessive journey from most of us, or there are frequent weekend trains between Birmingham New Street and Matlock via Derby. And please note that this is the last day of BST, clocks back, so we gain an hour on Saturday Evening. The town of Matlock has a Premier Inn, Cottage Rentals, AirBNBs, and campsites available.
GO: Matlock Getaway Evening Out with Hiking, Sat, Oct 25, 2025, 5:00 PM | Meetup

Safety:
As with any outdoor activity, there is some inherent risk. Whilst we aim to avoid unnecessary risks, participants should take all reasonable precautions themselves. A suitable pace for the walk will be determined by the walk leader, which others must observe by keeping in visible distance, not forging ahead or lagging behind. Those attending are totally responsible for their own safety. You must be comfortable walking the specified distance in order to attend please.
RSVP Commitment:
Places are not unlimited, so withdrawing in the last 24 hours is not allowed. Attendances shouldn't be compromised by ghosting (no-shows, late withdrawals).