Thursday walk 14th February Report

14 of us met by the side of Ladybower in perfect spring-like sunshine with blue skies and crystal clear conditions.We were soon heading straight up the steep sides of Ladybower Tor at the top of which fantastic views awaited.
Continuing along the side of Lead Hill we picked up the path across Whitestone Lee stopping above Grainfoot Clough to admire the scene over tea.The steady descent past Grindle Clough to the track by the eastern shore of Ladybower followed.We walked past the inlet with the remains of Derwent village now re-hidden below the waters after its recent brief exposure and continued past the church and scattered buildings above the reservoir.
Near Jubilee Cottage we descended to the woodland area below with its amusing wooden models.An area with a tree trunk modeled as a train provided a novel but perfect lunch spot.
Continuing past Fairholmes 2 members left the group and headed back along the western shore of the reservoir.The remaining 12 then climbed through the woods to Woodcock Coppice and followed the ridge above Haggside to the open hillside of Bridge End Pastures.
Passing below Crook “Hill” (given a singular name on the map despite its obvious twin summits on the ground) there was some discussion about extending the walk to include the twin summits.The party then divided again with 4 members opting to complete the walk as advertised by descending past Crookhill Farm to the Ladybower viaduct.The remaining 8 then climbed the two summits,the views easily justifying the extension of the walk by some 0.7milesbeyond the normal permitted maximum of 8.
Thanks to all who came and enjoyed a magical day in unbelievable spring-like weather.
Mike