Free Guide Countryside Destinations and Events 2018 Lots to explore... Events to enjoy... Time to relax... Welcome Derbyshire’s countryside is a fantastic place to explore the great outdoors. Our beautiful destinations attract thousands of visitors each year, which is great for the local economy. The countryside visitor centres offer information and guides, quality crafts and tasty treats.
I’m delighted we’ve been able to line up some exciting activities for you to enjoy. With more than 50 events there’s something for everyone, from family fun and festivals to skilled workshops and local heritage.
Come and explore some of the region’s best country parks, trails and historic waterways. With 3,000 miles of public rights of way and plenty of opportunities to walk, cycle or horse ride you can enjoy leisure time across the county. For visitors with more limited mobility you can hire a tramper scooter and venture further.
So whether you’re a regular visitor or looking to discover somewhere new, I hope you’ll be able to enjoy even more of what Derbyshire has to offer.
Councillor Simon Spencer Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member Highways, Transport and Infrastructure Derbyshire County Council
Front cover: Countryside event, Cromford Canal. Below: Black Rocks, High Peak Trail near Wirksworth.
1 Contents Discover Our Countryside Events ...... 3-4 wonderful Elvaston Castle Country Park and Visitor Centre ...... 5-9 days out... Shipley Country Park and Visitor Centre ...... 11-16
High Peak Trail and Cromford Canal: ...... 17-23 Middleton Top Visitor Centre, Cycle Hire and Black Rocks ...... 18 High Peak Junction and Cromford Wharf ...... 20
Steam Heritage ...... 24
Tapton Lock Visitor Centre: Chesterfield Canal ...... 27-30
Our Wider Countryside ...... 31-33
Our Countryside Destinations and Visitor Centres
Situated in the heart of England, come and enjoy our countryside destinations. Relax in beautiful surroundings with some of the region's best country parks, trails, waterways and attractions. Great visitor centres, a cycle hire facility and a programme of seasonal events to enjoy.
What’s on offer Our Visitor Centres: information and facilities - a great place to start your visit. Relax in beautiful surroundings: with gardens, parks, heritage, woodland, nature reserves, trails, lakes and canals. Explore: walking, cycling, horse riding, outdoor gyms, great play areas, boat trips, fishing and so much more. Enjoy: more exciting events, festivals and activities in 2018. Indulge: savour the taste of freshly ground coffee, enjoy a snack or dine in one of the cafes. Treat yourself: to bespoke cards and prints, and handcrafted gifts. Discover: what our wider countryside has to offer.
2 About the events Our We’ve lined up an exciting range of countryside events and festivals for everyone to enjoy, with seasonal interest and lots to look forward to. Our countryside friendly and experienced teams are on hand to help you entertain the events... kids, learn a new skill and explore our beautiful destinations. Event keys Gentle walk (easy going) Moderate walk (some climbs) Strenuous walk (some steeper climbs) Suitable for everyone Accessible by public transport (within 15 minutes walk of a bus stop or train station) For travel advice see page 33.
Event booking and charges The majority of events are bookable via their respective Visitor Centre. A small number of specialist workshops require pre-payment and must be booked online at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysideevents Details can be found throughout the brochure.
Special event charges vary. Some of our events are FREE. Parking charges apply at our principal countryside destinations. If you are coming to several events and visit these sites regularly, why not consider an annual season ticket. Details at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside
Clothes and what to bring with you Warm clothing, a waterproof and suitable footwear is recommended. For longer activities and workshops please bring a packed lunch and plenty of drinks. In warm weather remember your sun protection.
Young people attending our events All children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
Workshops All tools and equipment will be provided. No previous experience is required as tuition will be given. Participants may be required to use hand tools. Workshops are not suitable for children under 16 years.
Photographs Please note we may take photographs at our events and festivals. Photographs may be used in future leaflets and publicity for which the appropriate permissions will be sought.
Dogs ‘Dogs welcome on leads’ at some events, unless otherwise stated.
General enquiries and feedback Visit: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside Write to: Derbyshire County Council, Countryside Service, Economy, Transport and Environment, Shand House, Dale Road South, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 3RY Email: [email protected] Comments: We welcome your feedback and comments. Please send these using any of the methods listed above.
3 Derbyshire County Council Countryside Event Locations and Visitor Centres
The map shows our principal countryside destinations, event locations, visitor centres and pay and display car parks around Derbyshire. Glossop We have many more countryside sites, greenways and trails around the county that you can visit. See our website for more information at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside
Buxton Bolsover G Chesterfield Bakewell
B Black Rocks Cromford Wharf• Matlock Elvaston Castle Country Park and Visitor Centre• G Grin Low and Buxton Country Park B Hayfield Picnic Site (Sett Valley Trail) Alfreton High Peak Junction Visitor Centre Ripley Belper Middleton Top Visitor Centre and Ashbourne Cycle Hire Heanor Shipley Country Park and Visitor Centre• Tapton Lock Visitor Centre Ilkeston (Chesterfield Canal) Motorway Main roads Principal roads Towns Long Eaton Peak District National Park • Changing Places facility - a spacious accessible toilet with specialised equipment, including a height-adjustable changing bench and hoist. RADAR key operated. Swadlincote
© The Crown copyright reference 2018. Ordnance Survey 100023251. 4 Elvaston Castle Country Park Near Derby
5 Relax...in beautiful surroundings
Elvaston Castle Country Park is truly magical and steeped in history. Its formal gardens and wider parkland still inspire and surprise today.
At the heart of the estate is Elvaston Castle, a gothic revival masterpiece, once home to the Stanhope family and Earl’s of Harrington. Licenced for weddings inside the stunning Gothic Hall or within the walled gardens, this venue will not fail to wow.
Whatever the season there’s always lots to see and do, from play and picnic areas, to a host of popular events throughout the year.
6 Treat yourself
Head for the Castle Courtyards and Wyatt’s café overlooking the formal gardens or start your visit at the Information Centre and Shop. You will find friendly advice, refreshments and a wide range of gifts, seasonal plants and produce grown on the estate. Tramper scooter hire can be booked for easy access around the park.
Stay in touch Find us Website: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/elvaston Elvaston Castle Country Park, Facebook: Borrowash Road (B5010), Elvaston, Derby, www.facebook.com/ElvastonCastleCountryPark Derbyshire, DE72 3EP. Email: [email protected] Tel: 01629 533870. Elvaston Castle Country Park The visitor car park opens at 9am every day and To Ilkeston 25 closes at 8pm April to September; 5pm October To Derby A51 to March. A52 To
1
1 Nottingham B5010 Elvaston’s main car park off Borrowash Road is A6005 pay and display with toilets and a Changing A6 B5010 Places facility located near the entrance. Blue badge holders are also welcome to use the Elvaston ‘authorised vehicles only’ car park located closer Castle M1 to the castle. Season tickets are available from A6 the Information Centre and Shop.
A50 For information about Elvaston’s future visit www.futureelvaston.co.uk
24a For information about Weddings visit To Leicester www.elvastoncastleweddings.co.uk
7 For all Elvaston events - unless otherwise stated:
Meet: Elvaston Castle cobbled courtyard. Equipment: Suitable clothing and footwear. Location: OS ref SK406 330. Sat Nav DE72 3EP. Information: Elvaston Castle Country Park 01629 533870. Parking charges apply. Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Dogs welcome on leads.
If you would like to organise your own event, please contact us. Elvaston offers indoor and outdoor spaces for hire, ranging from a 27 acre showground to a smaller events field or the stunning Gothic Hall. The Gothic Hall FRIDAY 30 MARCH 10.30pm-3.30pm. Turn up any time. ELVASTON GOLDEN SUNDAY 22 JULY 11am-4pm. Turn up EGG TRAIL Join us, and the Easter Bunny, any time. TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC If you go at Elvaston for some Easter eggcitement! down to Elvaston Castle today you’re sure of Hop on down and follow the famous a big surprise! Kick off the summer holiday Elvaston Golden Egg Trail! Crack the code fun by joining us for a Teddy Bears’ Picnic. and claim a chocolate treat! Cost: £4 per Meet: East Avenue (in front of the castle). trail sheet. Length: Less than a mile. Cost: FREE to attend picnic. Small charge for some activities. SATURDAY 21 APRIL 12 noon-4pm. Turn up any time. NATIONAL GARDEN SATURDAY 21 JULY - SUNDAY 2 SCHEME (NGS) OPEN DAY Come and SEPTEMBER 11am-4pm. Turn up any time. discover the beauty of the Old English SUMMER ACTIVITY TRAIL Go wild in the walled garden at Elvaston Castle. Take in summer holidays at Elvaston Castle. Visit the the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy the shop in the cobbled courtyard to pick up your scents and colours of the plants varieties, activity sheet and equipment. Venture out in summer bedding and large herbaceous the park, use your senses to see what you borders. Estate gardeners on hand during can discover! Return to the shop to claim a the day. Delicious home-made cakes reward! Meet: Elvaston Castle Shop and available. Meet: Old English Walled Garden. Information Centre. Cost: £1.50 per sheet. Cost: Adults £2.50, Children under 16 free. Length: Less than a mile.
Further information: contact 01629 533870 Elvaston Castle Country Park Events 2018 or visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/elvaston SATURDAY 1 and THURSDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 7pm-9pm. THE PARK IN THE SATURDAY 5 MAY 4pm-6pm. EARLS, DARK. Come and meet some of the night- TREES AND AFTERNOON TEAS! Join the time residents of Elvaston Castle Country Rangers for a Springtime stroll through the Park. Learn about hedgehogs, birds and bats beautiful grounds of the historic Elvaston on this family friendly stroll around the Estate. Find out about the Earls that once grounds. You’ll meet rescued hedgehogs up lived here and the pioneering William Barron close and learn what we can do to help them. who helped to shape the park you see today. Then be amazed by our awesome owls! Find out who redesigned the Gothic Hall in Finally, as dusk settles, we’ll head out on to 1831 and why and what the future may hold the park with bat detectors to see how many for this amazing place. Then enjoy a relaxing different species of this marvellous mammal afternoon tea in Wyatts café overlooking the we can see! Length: 2 miles. Equipment: Parterre Garden. Meet: Main Car Park. No Bring a torch. Cost: Adults £6, Children £4. dogs allowed. Cost: £20 per person. No Dogs. (Not suitable for under 5's) PRE-PAYMENT / BOOKING ONLINE PRE-PAYMENT / BOOKING ONLINE ESSENTIAL ESSENTIAL. www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysideevents www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysideevents
8 WEDNESDAY 31 OCTOBER 10.30am- 3pm Turn up any time. ELVASTON’S PUMPKIN PARTY! Head to the courtyards to visit our Pumpkin Parlour! With the help of our fiendish friends, carve your very own pumpkin to take home! Pick up a Halloween trail sheet and explore the gruesome grounds of Elvaston - watch out for scary surprises along the way! Return to the start to claim a treat! Length: Less than a mile. Equipment: Come in spooky fancy dress. Cost: £2 per trail sheet, Pumpkin Parlour and other activities charges apply.
SATURDAY 17 NOVEMBER and FRIDAY 30 NOVEMBER 7pm-9pm THE SKY’S THE LIMIT Come and be amazed by the night sky at Elvaston. Learn about the planets in our Solar System, the stars, constellations and see what we can spot SATURDAY 22 and SUNDAY 23 through high-powered telescopes. You might SEPTEMBER 10am-5pm. Turn up any time. even see the spectacular Leonids Meteor DERBYSHIRE WOODLAND FESTIVAL Shower on the 17th if weather permits. Hot Now in its eighteenth year, the Derbyshire drinks available whilst you gaze at the stars. Woodland Festival is a really popular event, Cost: Adults £6, Children £4 (includes hot celebrating traditional and contemporary drink). Sorry no dogs. PRE-PAYMENT / woodland crafts - set within the historic BOOKING ONLINE ESSENTIAL. grounds of Elvaston Castle. This is a www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysideevents wonderful day out for all the family with lots of activities for children, delicious food and beautiful arts, crafts and gifts. Watch expert SUNDAY 9 and SUNDAY 16 craftspeople at work and have-a-go yourself. DECEMBER 10am-12noon or 1pm-3pm Bushcraft, fire lighting, furniture makers CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING Always a weaving, sculpture, wood carving, the Green popular event, our workshops on the art of Man and so much more. There’s something traditional wreath making will show you how for everyone and lots of activities are free! to make your own Christmas Wreath for you Cost: Special event parking charges to take home and hang on your door! All using apply. £10 per car/£5 per motorcycle all day. materials gathered within the grounds of Present the Discount Voucher off the back of Elvaston Castle. Come and have a go! this brochure to receive a £1 discount off the Equipment: Bring secateurs if you have any. Cost: £20 per person - includes Elvaston Castle Country Park Events 2018 daily parking charge. £15 Weekend Ticket available. Charges for some activities. refreshments. PRE-PAYMENT/BOOKING Information: ONLINE ESSENTIAL. www.derbyshire.gov.uk/woodlandfestival www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysideevents Elvaston Castle Country Park 01629 533870. Dogs welcome on leads. Halloween - what a scream!
SATURDAY 27 OCTOBER 6pm-8pm GRUESOME TALES AT ELVASTON CASTLE Join us, if you dare, for spine tingling stories as we explore the spooky grounds of Elvaston Castle at night! We promise plenty of fiendish family fun! Visit the ghostly gothic hall then fill up with freaky food in Wyatts café. Length: Less than 2 miles. Equipment: Spooky Fancy dress welcome. Cost: Adults £15 Children £8 PRE-PAYMENT/BOOKING ONLINE ESSENTIAL. www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysideevents
9 Visit Free maps on the website, show Derbyshire’s cycle, Countryside for everyone horse riding and easy access network. Many of the However you want to explore our routes run through pleasant, traffic-free spaces, ideal beautiful countryside we have routes for both commuting and recreation. Our Countryside and countryside sites to suit your needs. Visitor Centres offer self-guided walk leaflets, and lots of information to get you started. www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside
If you require easier access then our all-terrain mobility scooters (Trampers) could be the answer. By registering as a user you can book one of our Trampers at any of these locations. Instruction will be given on first use. Countryside Destinations with Tramper hire Elvaston Castle Country Park 01629 533870 Shipley Country Park 01629 533991 Middleton Top Visitor Centre 01629 533298 Tapton Lock Visitor Centre 01629 533020 High Peak Junction Centre 01629 533298 Creswell Crags Visitor Centre 01909 720378
www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside/access DerbyshireCountryside Shipley Country Park Heanor
11 Relax...in beautiful surroundings
One of the region’s finest, Shipley Country Park and Visitor Centre are set in 700 acres of rolling hills, wildflower meadows and tranquil lakes teeming with wildlife. Developed during the 18th century as a country estate and coal mining area by the influential Miller Mundy family.
Today, it is a great day out, with superb play areas, an outdoor gym and a host of seasonal events, self-guided trails and specialist workshops to enjoy. Tramper scooters are popular and available to hire from the Visitor Centre offering freedom for those with more limited mobility. Day fishing is available from the bankside and there are 20 miles of quiet paths and bridleways to discover.
12 Treat yourself
The Visitor Centre with Arts and Crafts Shop is a great place to start, with a wonderful selection of unique cards, prints, handcrafted gifts and quality homewares.
For tasty treats and homemade snacks head to the Ramblers Coffee Shop in the Visitor Centre or the Derby Lodge Tearoom a little further afield - muddy boots and dogs welcome!
Stay in touch Find us Website: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/shipley Shipley Country Park, Slack Lane, Facebook: www.facebook.com/ShipleyCountryPark Heanor, Derbyshire, DE75 7GX Email: [email protected] Tel: 01629 533991. To Ripley Shipley Langley Mill Eastwood Country Park A6010 A608 There are two main pay and Shipley Country Park Heanor display car parks. Charges Car park apply between the hours of Blue Badge A6007 parking Visitor A610 9am and 5pm Centre To (1 November to 31 March) and Nottingham between 8am and 8pm Smalley & M1 (1 April to 31 October). Season tickets are available Mapperley A6007 from the Visitor Centre. Reservoir A6096 Mapperley M1
A608 West Hallam A609 Ilkeston To Derby Common
13 For all Shipley events - unless otherwise stated:
Meet: Shipley Country Park Visitor Centre. Equipment: Suitable clothing and footwear. Location: OS ref SK431 452. Sat Nav DE75 7GX. Information: Shipley Country Park 01629 533991. Parking charges apply. Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Dogs welcome on leads.
EVERY SATURDAY THROUGHOUT THE YEAR 9am-10am. SHIPLEY COUNTRY PARKRUN A weekly FREE SUNDAY 20 MAY 12noon-4.30pm timed 5K run that starts and finishes at MOSAIC WORKSHOP An introductory Shipley Country Park car park. It is a fun, workshop to the art of mosaics. We will free event organised by volunteers for the guide you while you create a stunning benefit of everyone. Registration with piece of mosaic arkwork to take home. All parkrun is required before your first race. equipment and materials provided. Meet: Shipley Country Park car park, Suitable for beginners. Cost: £30 per DE75 7GX Further information and person. Further Information: Not suitable updates: for children under 16 years of age. www.parkrun.org.uk/shipleycountry/ Participants must be able to use hand course/ tools. BOOKING & PRE-PAYMENT Children under the age of eleven must be ESSENTIAL. Book online: accompanied throughout the run by an www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysideevents adult.
SUNDAY 1 APRIL 10.30am 1.30pm. Turn up any time. Self-led activity. HOPPING MAD! Shipley Country Park Events 2018 Bring the kids along for some Easter fun! Follow the Easter Trail to find the hidden clues and discover the secret word. Return to the start to meet the Easter Bunny and collect your treat. Length: 1 mile approximately. Cost: £2.00 per child.
MONDAY 2 - SUNDAY 8 APRIL SUNDAY 27 MAY - SUNDAY 3 10.30am-3.30pm. Turn up any time. JUNE 10.30am-3.30pm. Turn up any time. Self-led activity. ODD EGG TRAIL Self-led activity. NATURE TRAIL Come Come along to this egg-themed trail along to this nature-themed trail during the during the Easter school holiday. Track school holiday. Track down the clue cards down the clue cards to help you complete to help you complete the activity sheet and the activity sheet all about the weird world then return to the Visitor Centre to receive of eggs! Return to the Visitor Centre to a certificate. Length: 1-2 miles. Cost: £1 receive a certificate. Length: 1-2 miles. per child. Cost: £1 per child.
14 Solar Observing
SATURDAY 2 JUNE and 23 JUNE 10am-4pm Turn up any time. SOLAR OBSERVING Come along to view our closest star, the sun, through special filters. Ilkeston District Astronomical Society will have a SATURDAY 7 JULY 10am-4.30pm selection of telescopes for you to look SPOON CARVING WORKSHOP A one through and a chance to ask questions to day workshop to teach the use of axe and members of the society. Members’ work knife to carve wood. It will be a safe will also be on display throughout the introduction to woodcarving, with the aim month of June. (Solar viewing is weather of producing a spoon of your own to take permitting). Cost: FREE event. away. Other woodcarving ideas for the home will be discussed and shown, along FRIDAY 8 JUNE 6pm-8pm with inspirational ideas for decoration MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL COMMUNITY work. Suitable for beginners, this course 5K and MIDSUMMER 10K uses basic sharp hand tools which can seem strange at first, but full tuition with
Shipley Country Park Events 2018 A fantastic running event at Shipley Country Park organised by Heanor be given. Participants must have a basic Running Club. Registration required. Race level of strength and fitness to control the entry fee applies. Medal awarded to all tools when carving under instruction. finishers. Meet: Shipley Cricket Club, The Cost: £50 per person Further Field, Shipley, DE75 7JH Information: Bring a packed lunch or Further information: money for the café. Not suitable for www.heanorrunningclub.com children under 16 years of age. Sorry no dogs. PRE-PAYMENT AND BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Book online: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysideevents
SUNDAY 22 JULY 11am-4pm. Turn up any time. INSECT SHOW Join the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Entomological Society for their bug-tastic Insect Show, insect related displays and plant stalls. A guided butterfly walk will also take place (details nearer the time). SUNDAY 24 JUNE 10.30am-4.30pm Cost: FREE. THE BIG DERBYSHIRE FOOD FESTIVAL FREE to enter fantastic foodie day out for all the family. Delicious street food stalls, a fabulous Craft Marquee with lots of “Not on the High Street” gifts for sale, children’s entertainment and live music throughout the day. Further information: http://www.madhattersevents.com/ Mad Hatters Events: 01773 813771 Meet: Shipley Country Park Event Field. 15 festival, fordetails. available attheV FREE guided parkwalk afterthelaunch-see with cof (approximately 30walksover16 days), launch ofthisexcellentwalkingfestival, W 10am-10.30am SA www SUNDA FESTIV V AUTUMN FOOTPRINTS-THE DoubleOrQuit/ www DE75 7GX Shipley CountryParkEventField, Registration opensinMarch2018. the dayentries.Raceentryfeeapplies. Event Field.Registrationrequired-noon starts at5pmfromShipleyCountryPark 10 milesorevenNordicW distance youwanttorunontheday local charities. Ilkeston RunningClubtoraisemoneyfor scenic ShipleyCountryParkorganisedby multi-terrain 5or10milesracearound Double orQuitRaceisanannual Race Start5pm. miles. SA Centre toreceiveacertificate. will beadif During theschoolsummerholidaysthere activity any time. family inthefreshair dif week, (atrail,treasurehuntwitha SEPTEMBER SUNDA ALLEY ALK ference etc),somaketimeforfunwith TURDA .autumnfootprints.co.uk .ilkestonrunningclub.co.uk/ Autumn Footprints programme, Cost: Everyoneiswelcometoattendthe fee andcakeonof AL Y
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Shipley Country Park Events 2018 High Peak Trail and Cromford Canal Wirksworth and Cromford
17 AF AF Relax...in beautiful surroundings
Middleton Top Visitor Centre and Cycle Hire near Wirksworth, offers amazing views of the surrounding countryside and easy access onto the High Peak Trail. Step back in time 200 years inside the Engine House with its superb working beam engine from the era of the Cromford and High Peak Railway. With excellent cycle hire you can ride for miles on this beautiful traffic free trail through the heart of Derbyshire and discover fascinating heritage along the route. Visitor Centre, with parking and facilities offering friendly advice and light refreshments ideal for a picnic. Start your next adventure!
Black Rocks on the High Peak Trail is a magnificent gritstone outcrop, which can be reached by a short walk, but steep climb, from the car park rewarding you with far reaching views of the Derwent Valley. As well as an orienteering course, it is a venue for rock climbers and various walks in the area can be accessed from here. Café kiosk open weekends and high season.
AF 18 Black Rocks Cromford Mills Visitor Gateway AF
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19 AF Relax...in beautiful surroundings
Just south of Cromford is High Peak Junction Visitor Centre, on the Cromford Canal. Relax, take a stroll and watch the world go by in this tranquil haven of heritage and wildlife. Discover some of the oldest surviving railway workshops in the world and the working steam beam engine, Leawood Pump. Cromford Wharf is just a mile stroll along the towpath, with easy access for families and wheelchairs. The Visitor Centre serves freshly ground coffee and light refreshments whilst taking in the waterside views. Tramper hire and car park off Lea Road.
Cromford Wharf at Cromford retains much of its historical interest as a former working canal. Here you will find the Cromford Mills and ‘Visitor Gateway’ signposting other key locations within the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. The canal can be explored from the towpath between Cromford Wharf and Ambergate, a distance of just over five miles or take a trip on the historic narrow boat ‘Birdswood’ to High Peak Junction (information and booking email: [email protected]). A venue for all seasons, with ample parking and facilities and Wheatcroft’s cafe.
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T Cromford Cromford o Derby Canal A6 at .uk . For all Middleton Top and EASTER SUNDAY 1 and MONDAY 2 High Peak Junction events - APRIL 11am and 2pm. HORSE DRAWN unless otherwise stated: CANAL TRIPS A Traditional Shire cross horse, Chelsea, and staff in traditional Location: see events listings: costume will cruise you to see Leawood Middleton Top: DE4 4LS Pump in Steam. Departures 11am and (off the B5035, near Wirksworth) 2pm. See Birdswood website for further details, charges and to book. High Peak Junction: DE4 5AA www.birdswood.org Meet: Cromford (Signposted from A6 at Cromford) Wharf. BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Cromford Wharf: DE4 3RP SATURDAY 26 MAY - SUNDAY 3 (off Mill Road, Cromford). JUNE WILDLIFE WEEK NATURE TRAIL Follow the on site photo trail and discover Equipment: Suitable clothing and the fantastic facts about the wildlife of footwear. Cromford Canal. Cost: FREE. Meet: High Information: Contact 01629 533298. Peak Junction. Length: 0.75 miles. Parking charges apply. Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by FRIDAY 1 JUNE to TUESDAY 31 an adult. Dogs welcome on leads. JULY PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION Competition open to all non-professional EASTER SATURDAY 31 MARCH, photographers. Categories: High Peak Trail SUNDAY 1 and MONDAY 2 APRIL 11am- or Cromford Canal. Entries will be 3pm. HIGH PEAK JUNCTION RAILWAY displayed at High Peak Junction Visitor WORKSHOPS OPEN DAYS Entry to Centre from 6 to 12 August and will be these historic railway workshops and the open to public vote. Full terms and use of the fascinating Audio Tour is FREE. conditions will be available from our Visitor Just on the Saturday try your hand at Centres. being a blacksmith and make your own poker in the historic forge. Cost: £10 per SATURDAY 9 - SUNDAY 17 JUNE poker. CYCLE HIRE PROMOTION Visit Middleton Top Cycle Hire Centre during National Bike EASTER SUNDAY 1 and MONDAY Week and you can Hire One Get One Free. 2 APRIL 1pm-4.30pm MIDDLETON TOP A fantastic offer to get you exploring the beautiful High Peak Trail. In June pedal ENGINE HOUSE OPEN DAYS This is a rail and Cromford Canal Events 2018 chance to see the world’s oldest working through the countryside while it blooms with Engine House of its type. Learn how this wild flowers and herbs. Location: early railway was commissioned in the Middleton Top. Length: 17.5 miles of days before Stephenson’s Rocket. The beautiful traffic free trails to explore. magnificent beam engine was built in Further information and booking: 1829 and hauled waggons up the steep Middleton Top 01629 533294 Cost: From incline. Cost: £2.80 adults, £1.35 £10.50 child, £14.80 adult for 2 bikes. concessions. High Peak T
View from the High Peak Trail 22 HERITAGE OPEN DAY SUNDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 11am-3pm HIGH PEAK JUNCTION A Countrywide festival with many venues open for FREE. Visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk for details. FREE entry to our historic railway workshops and use of the fascinating Audio Tour.
HERITAGE OPEN DAY SUNDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 1pm-4.30pm MIDDLETON TOP ENGINE HOUSE This magnificent operating beam engine brings history to life. FREE entry as part of a nationwide heritage celebration, donations gratefully received.
DISCOVERY DAYS IN THE DERWENT VALLEY MILLS WORLD HERITAGE SITE Lots of family activities, including walks, workshops and talks, over 9 days, from Saturday 27 October to Sunday 4 November, taking in half term. Learn about the World Heritage Site in informative and entertaining ways. Something for all ages and many SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES events are FREE. In the final weekend, enjoy SATURDAY 21 JULY to SUNDAY 2 a host of activities around Cromford and SEPTEMBER 11am-4pm. Turn up any time. Masson Mills, the canal and in Cromford SELF-LED ACTIVITIES village, including the Countryside Service 1. Runaway Train Treasure Hunt around event below. Access the full programme at High Peak Junction. Follow the trail and be www.derwentvalleymills.org amazed by the history of run away trains and the oldest railway toilet in the world. Pick up a SATURDAY 3 and SUNDAY 4 trail pack from the Visitor Centre. Cost: £1 NOVEMBER 11am-3pm. Turn up any time. per child. HIGH PEAK JUNCTION OPEN DAYS Visit some of the oldest railway workshops in the 2. Mini-Beast Safari at Middleton Top. world and see them come alive. You will also rail and Cromford Canal Events 2018 Collect your bug catching pots, nets and be able to learn the fascinating history of the insect identification cards from the Visitor building and the industry it served. Have-a-go Centre then stalk spiders and go hunt a at being a blacksmith on the historic forge and grasshopper. Cost: £1 per child. make a poker to take home and keep. Cost: FREE workshop entry and FREE Heritage FOREST SCHOOL FUN THURSDAYS Audio Tour. Cost: £10 per poker. AT CROMFORD WHARF 2, 9, 16, & 23 AUGUST 2 Sessions each day 10am- 12noon, 1pm-3pm. Children’s activities including bushcraft, ecotherapy, den building etc. Materials provided. Cost: FREE. Parking
High Peak T charges apply. Location: Cromford Wharf. Contact: 07764 511463, [email protected] BOOKING ESSENTIAL
SATURDAY 4 and SUNDAY 5 AUGUST 10am-5pm. Turn up any time. CROMFORD SCARECROW FESTIVAL Follow the scarecrow trail around Cromford Mills. The historic narrow boat ‘Birdswood’ will lead you along the Cromford Canal to ALSO THAT WEEKEND: Leawood Pump High Peak Junction where you will find more will be in steam nearby, and ‘Birdswood’ the scarecrows. Leawood Pump is in steam over horse-drawn canal boat, will be in operation, the weekend 12noon - 5pm. with lots of activities at Cromford Wharf, organised by the Friends of Cromford Canal.
23 Steam Heritage Leawood Pump and Middleton Top Engine House Operating Days 2018
Leawood Pump Operating Easter Sunday 1 April Days - Open 12 noon to 5pm Monday 2 April May Bank Sunday 6 May Experience the power of this great Holiday Monday 7 May steam engine. The heat of the June Saturday 2 June boilers, the smell of grease and coal Sunday 3 June and the power of the wave as tons July Sunday 1 July August Saturday 4 August of water are pumped from the River Sunday 5 August Derwent to the Cromford Canal. August Bank Sunday 26 August Look out for Birdswood the Holiday Monday 27 August traditional narrowboat, which is September Saturday 15 September Heritage Sunday 16 September horse drawn on these dates. Open Day Directions: Park at High Peak October Saturday 6 October Junction car park, signed from Sunday 7 October Cromford, or enjoy a pleasant walk November Saturday 3 November Discovery Days Sunday 4 November of just over a mile along the Canal 11am - 4pm from Cromford Wharf. Charges: FREE but donations are gratefully received. Parking charges apply. Leawood Pump
Middleton Top Middleton Top Engine Easter Sunday 1 April House Operating Days - Monday 2 April Engine House May Day Sunday 6 May Open 1pm to 4.30pm Monday 7 May See the world’s oldest beam Spring Bank Sunday 27 May engine of its type in action. Holiday Monday 28 May June Sunday 3 June Discover how it got wagons up and July Sunday 1 July down steep hills on one of the Sunday 22 July world’s first long distance railways. Sunday 29 July Directions: From the A6 at August Sunday 5 August Sunday 12 August Cromford, climb the B5036, and Sunday 19 August follow the signs. August Sunday 26 August Charges Bank Holiday Monday 27 August Admission and parking charges September Sunday 16 September Heritage apply. Open Day Group Visits to Middleton Top FREE and Leawood can be arranged. donations welcome October Sunday 7 October Please contact us 01629 533298.
Contact: Middleton Top Visitor Centre, Rise End, Middleton by Wirksworth, Derbyshire DE4 4LS. Tel: 01629 533298 www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside 24 Photographs: by Ashley Franklin Photography Middleton Top Cycle Hire Centre Bikes for Adults and Children. Come and explore the High Peak Trail by bike. Take the opportunity to Tandems, Tagalongs, Buggies hire one of our excellent bikes, along the fabulous High Peak Trail with and Electric bikes all at its many fantastic connecting routes. competitive prices. Open weekends and school holidays from mid February until the end Open 9.30am-5pm, or dusk if of October. Open every day June, July and August. earlier. Parking charges apply.
Middleton Top Visitor Centre, Middleton-by-Wirksworth, Derbyshire DE4 4LS
Call 01629 533294 www.derbyshire.gov.uk/cycling Take a journey back to an age when Britain held centre-stage as the world’s first industrial nation – to a place where water power was first successfully harnessed for textile production – a milestone in the Industrial Revolution. Discovery Days Amid breathtaking countryside in the heart Festival 2018 of rural Derbyshire, and offering fascinating October 27 to insights into life during November 4 the 18th and 19th centuries, the Derwent Lots of special events and places to explore - Valley Mills World www.derwentvalleymills.org/discovery-days Heritage Site is the perfect choice for an outing. Tapton Lock and the Chesterfield Canal Chesterfield
Main picture: Tapton Lock Visitor Centre. Inset left to right: Canoeing on the canal, Tapton Mill Bridge and Hollingwood Hub.
27 Relax...in beautiful surroundings
Tapton Lock Visitor Centre is a hidden gem on the Chesterfield Canal. Its waterside location and garden offers a peaceful retreat in this busy market town. The canal was abandoned after the collapse of the Norwood Tunnel at Killamarsh in 1907, but is now restored as a haven for both people and wildlife, with seasonal boat trips aboard John Varley II.
All year round you can walk, jog or cycle along five miles of surfaced towpath, known locally as the ‘Cuckoo Way’ and with access onto the Trans Pennine Trail, why not explore further afield to Sheffield and beyond. The towpath and trail are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs and with tramper scooter hire available at the Visitor Centre, it’s easy for all the family to explore.
28 Treat yourself
The Visitor Centre offers a friendly welcome, with freshly ground coffee, fine teas and a wonderful selection of delicious snacks and cakes ideal for a picnic or meeting up with friends.
Stay in touch To Tapton Lock Sheffield Website: Visitor Centre www.derbyshire.gov.uk/taptonlock
A61 By-pass Facebook: Sainsburys www.facebook.com/TaptonLock Lockoford To M1 Email: Whittington Lane Junction 30 [email protected] Moor Tesco
A619 Chesterfield Find us
A61 By-pass Tapton Lock Visitor Centre, Visitor Lockoford Lane, Chesterfield S41 7JB Centre Tel: 01629 533020. Stonegravels Open 7 days a week all year round from 10am-4pm. Closed Christmas Day.
From the north M1 junction 30, follow the A619 towards Chesterfield. Chesterfield From south M1 junction 29, take A617 Town Centre towards Chesterfield. All routes from the A61 – look for the brown canal boat signs on the A61 near Tesco. A617 To M1 To Derby Junction 29
29 For all Tapton Lock events - unless otherwise stated:
Meet: Tapton Lock Visitor Centre. Equipment: Suitable clothing and footwear. Location: OS ref SK388 729. Sat Nav S41 7JB. Information and booking: Tapton Lock Visitor Centre 01629 533020. Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Dogs welcome on leads. SATURDAY 16 JUNE 11am-2pm EASTER EVENTS SATURDAY 31 and 3pm-6pm TEDDY BEARS PICNIC MARCH & SUNDAY 1 APRIL 11am-3pm BOAT TRIPS Bring your teddy, bring your EASTER EGG-CITEMENT Come along to grown up and bring your picnic for a jolly Tapton Lock Visitor Centre and take a day out! Cruising from Tapton Lock Visitor cruise aboard the John Varley II. Every Centre you and Teddy will travel down the child gets an Easter Egg and their grown- canal. We’ll stop for a picnic with fun and ups can enjoy hot cross buns. Easter crafts games before you sail back to the start. and quiz trail while you wait. Cost: £7 per Cost: Adults £6 & Children £4 TEDDIES person. SAIL FREE. BOOKING ESSENTIAL - call 01629 533020
SATURDAY 15 SEPTEMBER & SUNDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 11am-4pm TAPTON LOCK FESTIVAL Come and join Junction Arts and us for two days of CHESTERFIELD AREA fantastic festival fun! We’ve got music and WALKING FESTIVAL SATURDAY 12 performance in the marquee and you can MAY - SUNDAY 20 MAY With over 50 try your hands at crafts. Get close to the walks exploring the beautiful countryside water and have a go at canoeing or take a around Chesterfield and Bolsover. We trip aboard the Chesterfield Canal Trust’s have short family friendly walks with trip boat, John Varley II. Take a walk to activities for children, walks that visit local Waterside and learn about plans for canal breweries or you can take the challenge restoration or scale the dizzy heights on the and try the full 34 miles of the Round Adventur Teams climbing wall. With Chesterfield Walk. For details of all the refreshments on site, there is something for walks and to Book online go to everyone! Cost: FREE - charges for some www.chesterfieldwalkingfestival.co.uk activities. or pick up a festival booklet from Tapton Lock Visitor Centre or Chesterfield Visitor Information Centre. BOOKING Give the climbing wall a go ESSENTIAL - contact 01246 345777
SUNDAY 10 JUNE 10am-4pm Turn up any time. GLAPWELL ADVENTURE CYCLE FESTIVAL Come and join
Bolsover and District Cycling Club for a apton Lock and the Chesterfield Canal Events 2018 day of rides. Try the new mountain bike T trail at our Glapwell countryside site and then explore further with guided rides along the trails. Bring your bike for a free cycle safety check and Bolsover Extreme Wheels crew will be there, so if you don’t have a bike you can try one of theirs. Local cycle shops will join us, so you can see all the latest kit and caboodle! Meet: Stockley Trail car park (off the A617 Mansfield Road, behind Plug and Feathers Pub) Location: OS Ref SK446 366 Cost: FREE Further information: contact 01629 533020 30 Our wider countryside...
Main picture: Grin Low near Buxton. Inset left to right: Grassmoor Country Park (Five Pits Trail), Williamthorpe orchids (Five Pits Trail), Pleasley Pit Country Park and Pewit Carr Local Nature Reserve. 31 HOT DRINK VOUCHER Buy One Get One Free Offer The Voucher can be redeemed for one hot drink (tea, coffee, hot chocolate - no change given) at any of the following Derbyshire County Council Countryside Visitor Centres, subject to availability. VALID UNTIL 31 December Note: Opening times and days vary. Please see the website or contact the Centre 2018 Limited: 1 voucher/per person/per year Only original vouchers will be accepted. www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside
High Peak Junction Visitor Centre, Cromford : 01629 533298 Shipley Country Park, Heanor, DE75 7GX : 01629 533991 Elvaston Castle Country Park, Elvaston, Derby, DE72 3EP : 01629 533870 Tapton Lock Visitor Centre, Lockoford Lane, Chesterfield, S41 7JB : 01629 533020 Middleton Top Countryside Centre, Middleton by Wirksworth, DE4 4LS : 01629 533298
CYCLE HIRE VOUCHER £5 Discount when hiring two or more bikes Redeemable at Middleton Top Cycle Hire Centre only. Bikes must be pre-booked. Discount is off the total hire charge. Can’t be used in conjunction with any other offer. None transferable, no cash equivalent value. Come and explore VALID UNTIL the beautiful 4 November High Peak Trail by bike. 2018
Middleton Top Cycle Centre, Middleton Top Visitor Centre, Middleton by Wirksworth, Derbyshire,DE4 4LS : 01629 533294 A £20 refundable deposit will be required. Payable by cash, cheque or credit card. You will also need to bring along one form of Identification, such as a driving licence. Download the cycle hire opening dates/times from our website or contact the Centre directly. www.derbyshire.gov.uk/cycling Only original vouchers will be accepted. Offer is subject to availability. Public Rights of Way and Greenways... The Public Rights of Way network is more than 3,000 miles long and made up of footpaths, bridleways, restricted byways and byways open to all traffic. Public Rights of Way can be viewed through our mapping portal available at derbyshiremaps.derbyshire.gov.uk. where there is advice about how to access the information. Ordnance Survey Explorer maps also allow you to find your way around with the most recent editions showing areas of access land, over which walkers have a 'right to roam'.
Access to some routes may be restricted permanently or temporarily - further information to help plan your visit is available here: www.derbyshire. gov.uk/leisure/countryside/access/ rights_of_way/traffic_regulation_orders
To report any problems using the network contact Call Derbyshire on 01629 533190 or use our online reporting form at: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/ leisure/countryside/access/ Our wider countryside rights_of_way/enquiries
Cycling is a great way to spend some of your leisure time. We also promote over 350km of Greenways, traffic-free trails providing easy access for walking, cycling and, where possible, horse riding – connecting our countryside, villages and market towns. To explore your local area visit: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/ leisure/countryside/access
Public Transport… When visiting the countryside events or our countryside sites why not leave the car behind and travel by public transport?
To find the most suitable local bus or rail service contact Traveline on 0871 200 22 33 You can also plan your journey with interactive maps showing the nearest available bus stops at www.travelineeastmidlands.co.uk. For more details on public transport in Derbyshire, including bus timetables and maps, log onto www.derbyshire.gov.uk/buses.
Volunteering with us… Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, keep active and learn new skills. It makes a real difference to our countryside too! Get involved and become a countryside volunteer. For more information on volunteering: Tel: 01629 533302 Email: [email protected] Visit: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysidevolunteering
33 A museum collection 360 million years in the making
Explore the wonders of the Peak District at Buxton Museum and Art Gallery. Take a digital tour of the landscape through museum objects and artworks at www.wondersofthepeak.org.uk
Browse hundreds of ‘wonders’ from the comfort of your own home.
Find out more:
W W W www.derbyshire.gov.uk/buxtonmuseum
/buxtonmuseumandartgallery
@BuxtonMuseum
D Woodland Festival 2018 Elvaston Castle Country Park Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 September 2018 10am - 5pm Come and enjoy Derbyshire County Council’s Woodland Festival, celebrating traditional and contemporary woodland crafts. Watch experts at work or have a go yourself. Quality arts and crafts, bespoke gifts and delicious food. Cost: Special event parking charges apply all weekend: £10 per car/£5 per motorcycle all day. £15 weekend ticket. See voucher below for £1 parking discount. Contact: Elvaston Castle Country Park 01629 533870, DE72 3EP.
www.derbyshire.gov.uk/woodlandfestival
Present this voucher at the 2018 Woodland Festival and you will get £1 off your daily parking charge. Email (Optional)...... Sign up to receive news about our countryside events and seasonal offers. I consent to Derbyshire County Council holding the email address for this purpose. This information will only be held for the promotion and will be kept until you unsubscribe from the newsletter. If you would like more information about how Derbyshire County Council holds your personal data, visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/privacynotices Only valid for the weekend 22 and 23 September 2018.