welcome to the

The valley and its surrounding A working These moors are recognised Water contains a wealth of landscape internationally for their important The reservoirs of Derwent and Not everyone in the valley is blanket bogs and associated places to explore and enjoy. Howden were built nearly 100 a visitor. There are hill farms breeding birds such as the years ago to supply the cities of scattered about the area. golden plover and merlin. From the majestic reservoirs, , , Farming has been a key influence and Leicester. Over 1000 since prehistory and continues quiet forests to the wild people were involved in today. Traditional techniques Biodiversity pole open moorland there is building them and were such as hay meadow housed in the management help preserve the The carvings on the pole at something for everyone. temporary ‘Tin Town’ landscape and its biodiversity. Fairholmes depict the rich variety at . These are supported by of natural wildlife found in the European initiatives such as Upper Derwent. How many Ladybower was Environmentally Sensitive Areas. different species can you see? completed in 1945 to supply The White-faced Woodland an ever increasing demand. This sheep – the largest of the hardy resulted in the flooding of the hill breeds are associated with Dambusters villages of Derwent and this area. Ashopton – when water levels During the second world war the Man’s influence over the last 8000 are low you may get a glimpse The Woodlands are managed dams of Howden and Derwent years has left a rich cultural heritage. of the village remains. for timber, recreation and were used for training by the 617 conservation. Careful ‘Dambusters’ squadron. This was From ancient pre-historic settlements management away from a pure because of their similarity to the on the moors to the industrial A living landscape conifer crop to a more mixed Möhne and Eder Dams in the woodland has enhanced their heritage of the reservoirs there are industrial heart of Germany. There With the combination of water, value for both wildlife and is a memorial and museum at the lots of stories to discover. woodlands and high moorland, landscape. This is a sustainable West Tower of Derwent Dam the Upper Derwent has source of timber that may one (limited opening). become a unique place for day find its way into your homes. wildlife. Go quietly and Climbing above the farms and you may see some of forest you reach the high the shy and moorland. This may appear to be uncommon species wilderness but has been created such as the sandpiper, through centuries of management goshawk or mountain for hunting and grazing. The hare. Much time is spent grouse moors are carefully conserving these creatures managed to maintain a patchwork and improving habitats. of differently aged heather. exploring the valley

Even if there are crowds Please ensure you have a map, around the car parks, you will compass (and the knowledge to be able to find your own quiet use them), suitable footwear and spot if you are prepared to look clothing to allow for the changing for it. There are many ways to weather. explore the valley. Walking and cycling guides, maps and advice can be found In the saddle in the Information Centre.

There is a wide range of easy going and more challenging Waymarked walks routes for cyclists and horse riders in the area. There are several self- Please remember that guided circular trails starting riding is only permitted from the visitor centre at on bridleways – not on Fairholmes. Colour banded footpaths or on the open waymark posts mark the moorland. Cycles for adults, routes. All routes start from the children and people with far corner of the lower car park. 1.5km (40mins) 1 disabilities can be hired from the 3km (1-1 /2 hrs) cycle hire centre at Fairholmes. • Red route – a gentle stroll 4.5km (2-3 hrs) through the forest and returning past Derwent Dam wall.

On foot • Black route – a moderate stroll up to the edge of the The Upper Derwent has moorland with wonderful footpaths for everyone – from views across the valley easy waterside strolls to to the Derwent moors. strenuous hill walks. Follow some of the waymarked • Green route – paths to explore the valley. A slightly longer route The high moorland is Open taking in forest, views Access, offering many across to challenging routes but they and returning along the are not for the unprepared. reservoir side. help to keep it the Upper special Derwent

Disturbance to wildlife and sheep is a major problem - please keep your dog on a lead! working in This area is vulnerable to fire – take special care to avoid valley starting fires! partnership discover & enjoy Take your litter home, leave gates as you find them, protect wildlife, plants and trees! Keep to footpaths and don’t climb over walls. Don’t pollute reservoirs and streams! Over 2 million people visit the Upper Derwent each year. Beware of forest operations and timber lorries - look out for This means the valley needs to be carefully looked after if it local signing. is to remain as attractive as it is now. Since 1980 the valley has been managed by a unique and award- winning partnership, Traffic management and car parking which represents the range of local interests. The Upper Derwent Partnership works with local farmers, To help protect and enjoy the valley there is a traffic management residents and visitors to: scheme in operation. Please park only in designated car parks and lay-bys, or better still leave the car at home next time you visit • conserve and improve the valley’s natural and cultural heritage and use public transport. Bus and train links are available from surrounding villages, towns and cities. • provide better facilities for visitors • support the needs of the local community The road north of Fairholmes is closed to motor vehicles at certain times to provide • improve public transport and manage the traffic in the valley a traffic free area for walkers and cyclists (Disabled Badge holders exempt) – please You are an important part of the Upper Derwent Partnership. observe local signing. A minibus service Please help by following the advice in this leaflet. We hope operates when the road is closed. you enjoy your visit and have a safe journey home.

websites: www.stwater.co.uk Like to do more? www.peakdistrict.org The Peak National Park Ranger Service and Water www.nationaltrust.org.uk provide a team of rangers to help care for the valley and make www.forestry.gov.uk your visit more enjoyable. Volunteer and part time rangers play a vital role in caring for this area. If you would like to find out more ask in the Ranger Office or contact 01629 816290. The National Trust provides opportunities for practical voluntary conservation work - for more details contact the office 01433 670368.

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Slippery Stones The Upper Derwent Information Centre

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o o Toilets d Alport l Back Tor a n Castles d Birchen There are toilets for all at Fairholmes and Heatherdene carparks s Clough Derwent Res. Der Dams and Dambusters Museum, Snake Inn went Edge This interesting display is open in the West Tower of Derwent Dam, Ashop most Sundays and Bank Holidays throughout the year. Clough FAIRHOLMESFAIRHOLMESAIRHOLMES Derwent Guided walks Dam There is a full programme of guided walks and other events throughout the year. Join a local Ranger and discover the secrets and beauty of the Valley and the surrounding moorland in the Mill Brook R.AshopR. company of a knowledgeable guide. As h Ladybower Res. op Fishing Trout fishing is available on . Permits can be SHEFFIELD bought from the Fishery Office next to Heatherdene Car Park. Hope Cross Planning events in the Upper Derwent. LadybowerLadybower InnInn All organised events in the Upper Derwent require permission. Please discuss your plans with the Rangers or contact the Ladybower National Park Ranger Service on 01629 816200 Fishery Office Information LadybowerDamLadybowerDam HeatherdeneHeatherdene For more information about the area, including events, guided walks etc. YYorkshireorkshireorkshire BridgeBridge P.H.P.H..H. Upper Derwent Information Centre 01433 650953 Ranger’s Office 01433 659986 Upper Derwent Cycle Hire 01433 651261 National Trust – High Peak Estate Office 01433 670368 Fisheries Office 01433 651254 Travel-line (all public transport enquiries) 0870 6082608