We had a beautiful day today with clear views, a lovely blue sky and no wind. This was the first of 2 walks, the second one being Derwent Edge this afternoon. The walk can either be started from the Ashopton Viaduct where there is free verge parking on the A57 or up at the Fairholmes Visitor's Centre.
The route crosses the viaduct then heads along the shoreline path of Ladybower - this is a delightful, flat easy stretch with good views down the reservoir to Wellhead and up on to Derwent Edge. Reaching the road, there is a short distance on tarmac before a path heads to the left up through Lockerbrook Coppice and on to the Outdoor Centre. The path is very easy to follow and then moves along the top of Hagg Side, over Bridge End Pasture and up on to Crook Hill. From Crook Hill the route descends to Crookhill Farm and from here down on a good path back to the viaduct.
A delightful walk with not too much up and down but with beautiful scenery all around.
At the Ashopton Viaduct at 0900 on a sunny August morning in the Peak District - no one here!!