Matlock Christmas Market, Lumsdale Valley, Giddy Edge (12 Miles, Moderate)
Details
🎵 Ding dong merrily of high 🎵
...is what you might be singing as you look down from Giddy Edge, rosy-cheeked from the festive delights of Matlock Christmas Market, and maybe a spot of exertion from the various inclines on this yuletide ramble.
The Markets
It's the 30th anniversary of Matlock's Victorian Christmas Market and it opens at 9am, so turn up early if you want to explore the stalls before the hike. We'll also return to the markets afterwards to soak up the festive atmosphere and if you fancy we'll stick around till 5:30pm to watch the free firework display.
The Walk
The walk starts at 10am from the Garden Room tea shop, from where we'll explore all manner of historical and natural wonders in the nearby hills, including standing stones, a Hermit's cave, the three reservoirs of Ladygrove, two waterfalls, ruined mills and a micro brewery.
Last but not least we'll traverse the infamous Giddy Edge, giving those lacking a head for heights a chance to conquer their fear (there's an alternative path if you're not up for it, so don't panic).
Meeting point
Outside the Garden Room tea shop, Hall Leys Park at 9am (setting off at 10am):
https://maps.app.goo.gl/noTduEBDWkoQ9WLw9
Parking
There's a few nearby car parks all around £6 all day:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/BHGdMMPumfmeZNKm6
https://maps.app.goo.gl/zztiqkVyiNhz1a6S6
Or there's free on-street parking if you're willing to explore off the main roads. Bear in mind the markets are on so places might be busy.
Public transport
There're direct trains from Derby and Nottingham and plenty of bus connections to Matlock.
Dogs
Well behaved dogs are always welcome!
What to bring
Please bring a packed lunch, water and appropriate clothing/footwear for the weather and terrain.
After the hike
We'll return to the Christmas markets for a gluhwein and a bratwurst with the option of sticking around to watch the free firework display.
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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.