The 12 humans and 1 dog who assembled in Millers Dale were treated to a day of good weather and a varied walk. We crossed the dale and ascended the east side of the nature reserve before heading for Priestcliffe and Taddington. From the centre of the village a narrow path took us out and up to Sough Top, where a wall provided shelter for a coffee stop. By this time we were above snowline, and Ali’s snowman was enthusiastically destroyed by Kial’s dog. Onwards we went through Chelmorton, passing the IllyWilly well and the pub without deviation. The Midshires Way took us toward Deepdale, but a navigational error by the leader took us down too early, to Churn Hole. A pleasant lunch spot was found here though, at the expense of half a km of walk. Down we went to the Wye, and along to Blackwell bridge. A little further downstream we headed up the zigzag track to Meadow, where a deliberate decision was made to take the Pennine Bridleway toward Wormhill, restoring the distance lost earlier. This was possibly not universally approved, especially in the depths of the mud of the path behind Wormhill village. An escape was made through the churchyard and down to the river again. After a short muddy section downstream we climbed back up to the old railway track and back to the cars. A tad over 11 miles in all, in good company. Thanks to all.
Dave C