The backdrop for this walk was included the rich history of Arkwright’s Mill at Cromford and the River Derwent. Twelve set off uphill along a narrow lane to Starkholmes where we then descended to Matlock Bath and walked by the river, flanked by the Victorian architecture of this popular spa town. The route then ascended steeply on the other side of the Derwent gorge, winding up steps through woodland. A convenient bench at Upperwood gave a much needed respite. Then new-found paths wound down to Cromford and a lunch spot by the village pond. Here the heavens opened and with no shelter the majority vote was to abort the rest of the walk. We were very soggy at this stage! Alas, Black Rocks and the interesting industrial heritage of the High Peak trail will have to wait for another day. Back at the start, the sun reappeared. The Chesterfield crew had cut their losses and departed but the rest of the group agreed to a flat walk along Cromford Canal. Rewards included a double sighting of a kingfisher, and cruising canal boats. Total distance about 5.5 miles (8.85km) and approximately 1000 feet (305m) of ascent.
