The meet leader was the last to arrive at the Birchin Clough layby, finding Ali M, Chris K, Marianne and Sean already there. We were away just after 10, heading down into the woods of Lady Clough. The path beside the stream there is lovely, both in the woods and when it emerges at the NW end.Two culverts under the A57 gave Ali an idea for a scramble, then we had a slightly awkward climb over the road barrier to cross to Upper North Grain. The little-used path took us to a derelict shooting cabin, where we snacked before heading N toward Grains in the Water. We were surprised to meet a walker in this normally deserted section of moorland, but he headed SE while we meandered roughly parallel to the growing Alport stream.
Despite a brief shower, the decision was made to take a longer route involving a descent to the stream, crossing and ascent up the NE side. Another group decision half a mile on not to recross the stream resulted in lunch in the sunshine by the moated Alport trig point, surrounded by cotton grass and excellent views.. On we went to Alport Castles , where light rain started, then down and along the vehicle track until we could take the old Roman road back to the cars. A bout of heavy rain dampened enthusiasm a little, which may be why one member tried to divert toward the Snake Inn. Regrouped, we headed on through the felled plantation to the track back to Birchin Clough and the cars.
Despite some wet, a nice walk in a less-trod part of the Peak. Sean’s magic device recorded 11.1 miles and 683 m of ascent, so reasonable for a Sunday walk including some trackless sections.
Dave C
In Lady Clough
At Alport trig
Submit a CommentPlease be polite. We appreciate that.