Free Guide Countryside Destinations and Events 2017 Lots to explore... Events to enjoy... Time to relax... Welcome There is an astonishing variety of countryside in from historic country parks to trails and canals that have been reclaimed from former industrial use. We can claim the birthplace of the modern factory system along the Derwent Valley, which is a World Heritage site, and over 3,000 miles of public rights of way criss-cross the county offering leisure opportunities to locals and visitors alike.

Now in its 51st year our Countryside Service continues to offer events and activities for all the family including stargazing, school holiday fun, mosaic making, guided walks, insights into our industrial heritage and narrow boat trips. Most of these are held at our four main destinations – Elvaston, Shipley, and Tapton Lock but there are plenty of opportunities for informal recreation such as walking, cycling, fishing and horse riding in the wider countryside. Several national trails pass through the county but you can have just a gentle stroll or longer walk to suit you.

The Derbyshire countryside is accessible to all with a variety of terrain. People with mobility problems can hire a Tramper scooter and not miss out on exploring leafy lanes and tranquil places. It is also great value! Walking costs nothing and our events are often free of charge or at a modest charge. Our Visitor Centres are a good starting point for information, food and drink and books and gifts.

I would encourage everyone to get out and enjoy our green spaces - whether we're welcoming you for the first time or you're one of our regular visitors, I'm sure you'll find something here that appeals to you and your family.

Mike Ashworth, Strategic Director, Economy, Transport and Communities, Derbyshire County Council

Front cover: Solomon’s Temple: Grin Low and Country Park. Below: Autumn on the at . Contents Discover Our Countryside Events ...... 3-4 wonderful Country Park and Visitor Centre ..... 5-9 days out... Shipley Country Park and Visitor Centre ...... 11-15

High Peak Trail and Cromford Canal: ...... 16-21 Middleton Top Visitor Centre, Cycle Hire and ...... 17 High Peak Junction and Cromford Wharf ...... 18

Steam Heritage ...... 22

Tapton Lock Visitor Centre: Chesterfield Canal ...... 25-29

Our Wider Countryside: Sites, Public Rights of Way and Greenways (multi-user trails), Public Transport, Season Tickets and Volunteering ..... 31-33

Our Countryside Destinations and Visitor Centres

Situated in the heart of , come and enjoy our great 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. Discover all that the Derbyshire villages, market towns and surrounding attractions have to offer.

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 2017… Indulge: savour the taste of freshly ground coffee, enjoy a snack or dine in one of the cafes… Treat yourself: quality countryside gifts, crafts, cards, books, maps and souvenirs... 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 kids, learn a new skill and explore our beautiful destinations. events... 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. For more information see page 33.

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 any of our events or festivals. Photographs may be used in future leaflets and publicity. If you have any objections please tell one of the staff before the start of an event.

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 Communities, 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 Chesterfield G 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 Middleton Top Visitor Centre and Belper Cycle Hire Ashbourne Heanor Pleasley Pit Country Park Shipley Country Park and Visitor Centre • Ilkeston Tapton Lock Visitor Centre (Chesterfield Canal) Motorway Main roads Principal roads Long Eaton Towns National Park • Changing Places facility - a spacious accessible toilet with specialised equipment, including a height-adjustable changing bench and hoist. RADAR key operated. Swadlincote

© Crown copyright and database rights 2017. Ordnance Survey 100023251. 4 Elvaston Castle Country Park Near

5 Relax… in beautiful surroundings Elvaston Castle Country Park offers 321 acres of open parkland, woodland and formal

historic gardens close to Derby and Nottingham. At the heart of the estate lies Elvaston Castle, ark a gothic revival masterpiece (currently not open to the public) redesigned for the third Earl of Harrington by James Wyatt in the early 1800s and based on the original house, which dates back to 1633.

The Stanhope family resided here until the estate was sold by the then Earl of Harrington.

Today, both the buildings and gardens are registered nationally (Grade 2 and Grade 2*) as being of special architectural and historical interest. Elaborate structures such as the 'Golden Gates' and 'Moorish Temple' provide a fascinating glimpse of the past. The core gardens are locally renowned for their rockwork structures and fine examples of topiary, originally introduced by William Barron in the 19th Century, a prominent garden designer of the time. The walled Old English Garden offers a lovely tranquil setting and close to the castle, St Bartholomew's Church is also of interest. tle Country P

Within the castle courtyards, you will find the Information Centre and Shop, café, toilets, baby changing facilities, tramper hire and exhibition space. ton Cas as Elv

View across the Lake

The Moorish Temple Explore Whatever the season there is always lots to see and do with popular events throughout the year and ample opportunities for a gentle stroll. Elvaston is well known for being a dog-friendly park.

Discover the network of pathways and wayfaring points, with orienteering maps and a wide variety of leaflets available at the Information Centre. Horse riders and cyclists can follow the bridleway which runs around the perimeter of the park, or if you are less mobile all-terrain mobility scooters are available to hire at the shop, if pre-booked.

Families can enjoy a picnic at tables across the park, including on the events field and historic lawns. Come and discover the interactive sculpture trail, children's play area and the lake. The local nature reserve is also lovely to visit (sorry, no dogs in the reserve). If you keep your eyes peeled you may even spot a knight, royal throne or a bear in the woods!

6 Indulge The Information Centre and Shop in the castle’s ark cobbled courtyard, sells a range of refreshments, hot and cold drinks, ice cream and confectionery, including traditional loose sweets and crisps, ideal for a picnic. Looking for a small toy, gift or card? Come and see what we have in stock!

The privately run Wyatts Café located within the castle offers a wide selection of tasty hot and cold meals, snacks, cakes and drinks.

An ice cream van is available most days at the main car park. tle Country P Treat yourself On arrival at Elvaston’s main car park look out for the sign board and map, helping you to find your way to our central courtyards. The Information Centre and Shop is a great place to start your visit, with friendly advice and a wide range of ton Cas maps and guides to make the most of your visit. as Our shop stocks a wonderful selection of countryside related gifts, cards, books and

Elv Elvaston souvenirs, handcrafted items and seasonal plants and produce grown on The Cobbled Courtyard the estate.

Stay in touch Find us Website: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/elvaston Elvaston Castle Country Park, Facebook: Borrowash Road (B5010), Elvaston, www.facebook.com/ElvastonCastleCountryPark Derby, Derbyshire, DE72 3EP. Email: [email protected] Tel: 01629 533870. Elvaston Castle Country Park The visitor car park opens at 9am every To Ilkeston 25 day and closes at 8pm April to To Derby A5111 September; 5pm October to March. A52 To Nottingham B5010 Elvaston’s main car park off Borrowash A6005 A6 Road is pay and display with toilets and B5010 a Changing Places facility located near Elvaston the entrance. Blue badge holders are Castle M1 also welcome to use the ‘authorised

A6 vehicles only’ car park located closer to the castle. Season tickets are available A50 from the Information Centre and Shop.

For information about Elvaston’s future 24a visit www.futureelvaston.co.uk To Leicester

7 For all Elvaston events - unless otherwise stated:

Meet: Elvaston Castle Cobbled Courtyard. Equipment: Suitable clothing and footwear. ents 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 7 Ev accompanied by an adult. Dogs welcome 1 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 ark 20 events field or the stunning Gothic Hall.

FRIDAY 3 and FRIDAY 10 MARCH 7pm-9pm. THE SKY'S THE LIMIT Come and Teddy Bears’ Picnic be amazed by the night sky at Elvaston, kindly supported by three local astronomical EASTER EVENT FRIDAY 14 APRIL societies, you can gaze through the high 10.30am-3.30pm. Turn up any time. powered telescopes and watch some ELVASTON GOLDEN EGG TRAIL Join us, and fascinating presentations. Learn about stars, the Easter Bunny, at Elvaston for some Easter galaxies, the solar system and space eggcitement! Hop along and follow the exploration. Whether you're a seasoned star famous Elvaston Golden Egg Trail! Crack the gazer or beginner looking to learn more code and claim a chocolate treat! Cost: £4 per trail sheet, (less than a mile).

there is something for all ages at this exciting tle Country P event. Our shop and information centre will be open for hot drinks, snacks and space SUNDAY 23 JULY 11am-4pm. Turn up orientated gifts. Cost: Adults £6, Children any time. TEDDY BEARS' PICNIC If you go £3 (includes hot drink). Sorry no dogs. PRE- down to Elvaston Castle today you're sure of PAYMENT/BOOKING ONLINE ESSENTIAL. a big surprise! Kick off the summer holiday fun www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysideevents and join us for our annual Teddy Bears' Picnic. We'll have outdoor activities, tasty treats and Meet: SUNDAY 26 MARCH 1pm-3.45pm. more! Small events field (near the ton Cas HALL OF FAIR STAR Not generally open for throne). Equipment: Bring your Teddy Bear the public to view - now is your chance to and a picnic. Cost: FREE to attend picnic. pre-book a half hour slot between 1pm and Small charge for some activities. as 3.45pm, to take a closer look at Elvaston's magical Gothic Hall. Find out about the Earls SUNDAY 30 JULY 1pm-3.45pm. that once lived here; who redesigned the hall HALL OF FAIR STAR. For details see Sunday Elv in 1831 and why. Meet: Outside Gothic Hall 26 March. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Call 01629 doors (onto topiary garden). Sorry, no dogs 533870. or high heels allowed. Cost: Adults £1.50, under 16s FREE. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. SATURDAY 22 JULY-SUNDAY 3 Call 01629 533870. SEPTEMBER 11am-4pm. Turn up any time. SUMMER ACTIVITY TRAIL Go wild in the The Gothic Hall summer holidays at Elvaston Castle. Visit the shop within the cobbled courtyard to pick up your 'Wildlife Wander' activity sheet and equipment. Venture into the park and use all of your senses to see what you can discover. Return to the shop to claim a reward! Meet: Elvaston Castle Information Centre and Shop. Cost: £1.50 per sheet. Length: Less than a mile.

8 FRIDAY 1 and FRIDAY 8 SEPTEMBER Halloween - what a scream! 7pm-9pm. THE PARK IN THE DARK Come and meet some of the night-time residents of Elvaston Castle Country Park. Learn about ents bats and birds, mammals and moths on this family friendly stroll around the grounds. Using bat detectors, we'll listen to the bat's night-time chattering, have a hoot with an

7 Ev owl, meet the mammals and look at our moth Length: Equipment: 1 trap in action. 2 miles. HALLOWEEN EVENT SUNDAY 29 Cost: Bring a torch. Adults £6, Children £3 OCTOBER PRE-PAYMENT/ 10.30am-3pm. Turn up any time. (Not suitable for under 5s). ELVASTON'S EERIE ADVENTURES! BOOKING ONLINE ESSENTIAL. Come and join us, if you dare! Explore the spooky fun on www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysideevents offer in the grounds of Elvaston Castle (watch SATURDAY 23 and SUNDAY 24 out zombie gardeners!). Visit our Pumpkin ark 20 SEPTEMBER Parlour and have-a-go at carving a pumpkin to 10am-5pm. Turn up any time. take home. With creepy crafts, haunted tales DERBYSHIRE WOODLAND FESTIVAL and tricks and treats included, we promise Now in its seventeenth year, the Derbyshire plenty of fiendish family fun! Length: 1 mile. Woodland Festival is a popular event Equipment: Come in spooky fancy dress with celebrating traditional and contemporary suitable footwear. Cost: Children £4 per Eerie woodland crafts set within the historic Adventure trail sheet. Additional charge for grounds of Elvaston Castle. This is a pumpkin carving/ other activities. wonderful day out for all the family with lots of activities for children, delicious food, CHRISTMAS EVENT SUNDAY 3, 10 bespoke gifts, plants and an array of stalls. AND 17 DECEMBER 11am-3pm. FATHER Watch expert craftspeople at work and have- CHRISTMAS SUNDAYS Get in to the festive a-go yourself. Fire lighting, survival skills, chair spirit within the magical grounds of Elvaston making, willow weaving, the Green Man and Castle. You can take a winter walk around the tle Country P so much more. There is something for Grade 2* listed gardens, visit the shop for some everyone to enjoy! Cost: Special event parking great gift ideas and refuel with a bite to eat charges apply. £8 per car/£4 per motorcycle and drink from the café or shop! Younger all day. Present the Discount Voucher off the visitors will be able to meet the great man back of this brochure to receive a £1 discount himself, Father Christmas, who will be residing off the daily parking charge. £12 Weekend in Elvaston Castle's Gothic Hall with his Elves Ticket available. Charges for some activities. each Sunday! Our regular craft fayre will be Information: Elvaston Castle Country Park here 3 and 17 December, with the annual ton Cas 01629 533870. www.derbyshire.gov.uk/ Rainbow's Santa Fun Run on 10 December. woodlandfestival. Dogs welcome on leads. Meet: Elvaston Castle Gothic Hall. Cost: Visit as Father Christmas £6 (includes a small gift for Coracle making - just one of the crafts at each child). Tickets at the shop in the cobbled our Woodland Festival courtyard. Pre-book on 01629 533870. No

Elv dogs allowed in the Gothic Hall.

CHRISTMAS EVENT SUNDAY 3 and 10 DECEMBER 10am-12 noon or 1pm-3pm. CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING Always a popular event, our workshops on the art of traditional wreath making will show you how to make your own Christmas wreath using materials gathered within the grounds of Elvaston Castle. Come and have-a-go, then take it home and hang it on your door. Equipment: Bring secateurs and gardening gloves if you have them. Cost: £15 per person, includes refreshments. PRE-PAYMENT/ BOOKING ONLINE ESSENTIAL. www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysideevents

9 Free maps are available, showing Derbyshire’s cycle, horse riding and easy access network. Many of the routes run Visit through pleasant, traffic-free spaces, ideal for both commuting and recreation. They are available at our Countryside Visitor Centres or you can also view Countryside for everyone them at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside However you want to explore our If you require easier access then our all-terrain mobility beautiful countryside we have routes scooters (Trampers) could be the answer. By registering and countryside sites to suit your needs. as a user you can book one of our Trampers at any of these locations. Instruction will be given on first use.

Principal countryside sites 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

and Museum and Education Centre 01909 720378

Visit our website for more information at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside/access Shipley Country Park Heanor

11 Relax… in beautiful surroundings Located near to Derby and Nottingham, Shipley Country Park offers an attractive and varied landscape and 1,000 years of history. The site was developed during the 18th century as a ark country estate and coal mining area by the influential Miller Mundy family.

Today the park is one of the region's finest with lots of facilities for a great family day out. Kids will love the three fantastic play areas, picnic sites and lots to see.

Former railways have long since been transformed into leafy pathways and old reservoirs are now tranquil lakes teeming with wildlife. Discover the beautiful woodlands, rolling hills and wildflower meadows.

The Visitor Centre next to the main car park has a well-stocked gift shop and café, with toilets, baby changing facilities, a wide range of leaflets and a Changing Places facility. You can hire a tramper or our exhibition space (pre-booking required) and if you are y Country P interested in organising your own event please ask us about the green space and room we have available for hire. Shiple

Bring out the adventurer in your child

Miles of paths criss-cross Shipley Country Park Explore Whatever the season, there is always lots to see and do with 700 acres and over 20 miles of quiet paths and bridleways for walking, cycling and horse riding.

The outdoor trim track and gym is a great way to keep fit while enjoying the views. Geocaching is popular on the park which also has an extensive network of wayfaring points. Day fishing is available on the bankside. Room hire and our all-terrain mobility scooters are available through the Visitor Centre, (pre-booking required).

Come and enjoy the park's events and activities from self-guided trails to specialist workshops and volunteering throughout the year.

12 Indulge At the Visitor Centre you will find the shop ark which sells a range of hot and cold drinks, ice cream and confectionery. Also the privately run Ramblers Coffee Shop offering a range of hot and cold meals and drinks.

A little further afield is the Derby Lodge Tearoom, which is run by volunteers, providing a range of homemade snacks and drinks - muddy boots and dogs welcome! Derby Lodge Tearooms

y Country P Shipley Country Park’s gift shop Treat yourself Make the Visitor Centre your first port of call. With friendly advice, information leaflets and event programmes as

Shiple well as maps to help you find your way around.

Our gift shop stocks a wonderful selection of countryside related gifts, cards, toys, souvenirs and books at very reasonable prices, handcrafted items and exhibits by local artists.

Stay in touch Find us Website: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/shipley Shipley Country Park, Slack Lane, Facebook: Heanor, Derbyshire, DE75 7GX www.facebook.com/ShipleyCountryPark Email: [email protected] Tel: 01629 533991.

There are two To Ripley Shipley Eastwood main pay and display car parks. Country Park A608 A6010 Shipley Country Park Charges apply Heanor between the Car park

A6007 hours of 9am Blue Badge A610 parking Visitor and 5pm Centre To (1 November to Nottingham 31 March) and Smalley & M1 between 8am and 8pm (1 April Mapperley A6007 Reservoir to 31 October). A6096 Season tickets

Mapperley M1 are available

A608 from the Visitor West Hallam A609 Ilkeston Centre. To Derby Common

13 For all Shipley events - unless otherwise stated:

Meet: Shipley Country Park Visitor Centre. Equipment: Suitable clothing and ents footwear. Location: OS ref SK431 452. Sat Nav DE75 7GX. Information: Shipley Country Park 01629 533991. Parking charges apply. Children under 16 years of 7 Ev

age must be accompanied by an adult. 1 Dogs welcome on leads.

SATURDAY 8 APRIL 10am-4.30pm. SPOON CARVING WORKSHOP A one day workshop to teach the use of axe and knife to carve wood. It will be a safe introduction ark 20 to woodcarving, with the aim of producing a spoon of your own to take away. Other woodcarving ideas for the home will be discussed and shown, along with inspirational ideas for decoration work. Suitable for beginners, this course uses basic sharp hand tools which can seem strange at first, but full tuition will be given. Spoon carving Participants must have a basic level of strength and fitness to control the tools SUNDAY 16 JULY when carving under instruction. Cost: £50 10am-4pm. Turn

SUMMER FUN DAY in aid of y Country P per person. Information: Bring a packed up any time. Guide Dogs lunch or money for the café. Not suitable Support guide dogs in your local for children under 16 years of age. Sorry no area and enjoy a great day out for all the dogs. PRE-PAYMENT/BOOKING ONLINE family. With demonstrations of dog agility, ESSENTIAL. heel work to music and dog cross-country www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysideevents running. There'll also be entertainers and various stalls selling a range of goods, crafts Meet: Shiple EASTER EVENT SUNDAY 16 APRIL and treats. Shipley Country Park Event . Cost: FREE. 10.30am-1.30pm. Turn up any time. Field Small charge may apply Information: HOPPING MAD! Bring the kids for some for some activities. Visit Easter fun! Follow the Easter Trail to find www.guidedogs.org.uk/nottingham or the hidden clues and discover the secret 0845 372 7424. word. Return to the start to meet the Easter SUNDAY 23 JULY Bunny and collect your chocolate treat. 11am–4pm. Turn up INSECT SHOW Length: 1 mile approximately. Cost: £2 any time. Join the Derbyshire per child. and Nottinghamshire Entomological Society for their bug-tastic insect show, insect related SUNDAY 2 JULY 12 noon-4pm. Turn displays and plant stalls. A guided butterfly up any time. LAKESIDE FESTIVAL Join walk will also take place (details nearer the Cost: FREE the Friends of Kirk Hallam Lake and the time). . countryside service for this summer festival. SUNDAY 23 JULY to SATURDAY 2 The Lakeside Festival highlights the many SEPTEMBER aspects of the rich wildlife of the site, and 11am-3.30pm. Turn up any time. also includes other invited organisations SCHOOLS OUT! Self-led activity During with similar aims to help animals, wildlife the school summer holidays there will be a and the natural world. Stalls and small fair different self-led activity each week, (a trail, rides too. Meet: Kirk Hallam Lake, off treasure hunt with a difference etc.), so make Godfrey Drive, Kirk Hallam, Ilkeston. time for fun with the family in the fresh air. Location: OS ref SK455 406. Sat Nav Return to the Visitor Centre to receive a Length: Cost: DE7 4HN. Cost: FREE. Small charge for certificate. 1-2 miles. £1 some activities. per child.

14 Food galore! HALLOWEEN EVENT SATURDAY 21 OCTOBER to SUNDAY 29 OCTOBER 11am-3.30pm. Turn up any time. (UN)NATURAL TRAIL. Self-led activity ents Come along and follow the Halloween Trail and search for the spooky clues that will help you learn about creepy critters and beastly bugs. Return to claim your treat! Fancy dress Length: Cost:

7 Ev welcome. 1 mile. £1.50 per child. 1

SUNDAY 19 NOVEMBER 10am start. THE MATTHEW WALKER 10K PUDDING RUN A fantastic fun run at Shipley Country Park. Take part and receive a Christmas pudding! More information: ark 20 www.heanorrunningclub.com

SUNDAY 19 NOVEMBER 12 noon- 4pm. MOSAIC WORKSHOPS Join the countryside service for this introductory SUNDAY 3 SEPTEMBER 10.30am- workshop to the art of mosaics. We will 4.30pm. THE BIG DERBYSHIRE FOOD guide you while you create a stunning piece FESTIVAL FREE to enter fantastic foodie day of mosaic artwork to take home. Equipment out for all the family. Delicious street food and materials provided. Suitable for stalls, a fabulous craft marquee with lots of beginners. Cost: £20 per person. Not unique gifts for sale, children’s entertainment suitable for children under 16 years of age. and live music throughout the day. More Participants must be able to use hand tools. y Country P details: www.madhattersevents.com PRE-PAYMENT/BOOKING ONLINE Mad Hatters Events: 01773 813771. ESSENTIAL. www.derbyshire.gov.uk/ AUTUMN FOOTPRINTS - THE AMBER countrysideevents VALLEY AND EREWASH WALKING FESTIVAL CHRISTMAS EVENT SUNDAY 17 SATURDAY 9 SEPTEMBER to SUNDAY 24 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS CAROL SEPTEMBER 3pm-4pm.

Shiple For information visit CONCERT Join Marlpool United Reformed www.autumnfootprints.co.uk Church Theatre Company for a sing-along of traditional carols to celebrate the festive SATURDAY 9 SEPTEMBER 10am– season. Cost: FREE, donations welcome. 10.30am. LAUNCH AND GUIDED WALK Everyone is welcome to attend the launch of Make your own mosaic this excellent walking festival, (approximately 30 walks over 16 days), with coffee and cake on offer. There is a guided park walk after the launch – see the FREE Autumn Footprints programme, available at the Visitor Centre nearer the festival, for details. Cost: FREE.

SUNDAY 15 OCTOBER 10am-12.30pm. WILD FOOD FORAGE A walk around Shipley Country Park in search of useful trees, plants and fungi. This walk will concentrate on exploring seasonal wild food, medicine and craft materials in the area. It will also look at bushcraft basics such as fire lighting. Meet: Mapperley car park, Shipley Country Park. Length: 2-3 miles. Cost: £5 per person. Location: OS ref SK436 437. Sat Nav DE7 6BR. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Call Shipley Country Park 01629 533991.

15 and Cromford Canal and Cromford

Main picture: Middleton Top Engine House, Inset left to right: View from Black Rocks, Hopton Cottage on the HIgh Peak Trail, High Peak Junction. 16 Relax… in beautiful surroundings

ail Middleton Top Visitor Centre and Cycle Hire r Located near Wirksworth, it offers fantastic 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, discover interesting heritage along the trail.

Treat yourself eak T at the Visitor Centre where you will get a warm welcome. We offer lovely freshly ground coffee, hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, snacks, ice creams and confectionery ideal for a family picnic whilst taking in the breathtaking views. It also stocks an excellent range of walk leaflets, maps and guides; our staff will be happy to provide information. We sell countryside related gifts, toys and souvenirs. Wonderful specialist books of interest to the locality and not readily available elsewhere. There's ample parking, toilets, baby changing facilities, tramper hire and a picnic area. High P Middleton Top is a venue for all seasons, loved by walkers, cyclists and horse riders alike and the start of the Pennine Bridleway (www.nationaltrail.co.uk/pennine-bridleway). In spring and summer wildflowers are abundant along the trail and in the nature reserve, while the surfaced track allows easy access into the countryside in the autumn and winter months.

Explore Middleton Top Cycle Hire You can hire a bike and cycle for miles on the beautiful traffic- free trails through the heart of Derbyshire. All ranges of cycle hire bikes are available.

Black Rocks Also on the High Peak Trail, near Wirksworth is Black Rocks, a magnificent gritstone outcrop, which can be reached by a short walk, but steep climb, from the car park rewarding you with superb views. Facilities include a picnic area, toilets and a small privately run café kiosk providing hot and cold snacks and light refreshments, open weekends and high season. Several walks in the area can be accessed from Black Rocks, as well as an orienteering course, it is a venue for rock climbers. Walking east along the trail will offer far reaching views of the Derwent Valley. Head west and you will reach the National Stone Centre and Middleton Top. Waymarked trails guide you through Forestry Commission woodlands on Cromford Moor.

17 Relax… in beautiful surroundings High Peak Junction Visitor Centre Located a mile south of Cromford, High Peak Junction on the Cromford Canal is a tranquil location to relax and watch the world go by. Visit some of the oldest surviving railway workshops in the world and the working steam beam engine, Leawood Pump.

Treat yourself at the Visitor Centre where you will get a warm welcome. We offer lovely d Canal freshly ground coffee, hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, snacks, ice creams and confectionery ideal for a family picnic whilst taking in the lovely canalside views. It also stocks an excellent or range of walk leaflets, maps and guides, countryside related gifts, toys and souvenirs. Wonderful specialist books of interest to the locality and not readily available elsewhere. You will also find tramper hire, toilets with baby changing and car park off Lea Road. omf High Peak Junction can be visited all year round. It was once the hub of transport activity and is now a true haven of heritage and wildlife. Enjoy the fascinating audio tour and heritage trail at this junction of both the canal and High Peak Trail. Cr

High Peak Junction Visitor

Centre and Workshops Courtesy of Steve Mellor

Explore Cromford Wharf Located at Cromford, it offers something for everyone; it has long since ended its role as a working canal but retains much of its historical interest. Ideal for a short stroll or longer walk with car park, toilets, Changing Places facilities and Wheatcroft's Wharf café; privately run offering a good selection of homemade, locally sourced meals throughout the day. Cross the road to the historic Cromford Mills where you will find the Visitor 'Gateway', providing opportunities to learn about the heritage, and signposting key locations within Cromford and the wider World Heritage Site.

The canal can be explored from the towpath between Cromford Wharf and , a distance of just over five miles. The 1.5 mile walk from Cromford Wharf to High Peak Junction is a gentle stroll suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Little grebes and water voles can be seen throughout the year with dragonflies and damselflies in the summer months.

Take a trip on the 'Birdswood' narrow boat from Cromford Wharf to High Peak Junction, or simply stroll along the towpath. 'Birdswood' usually operates every weekend in the summer often on Wednesdays and Thursdays in the week, private charters are available. When Leawood Pump is in steam 'Birdswood' is usually horse drawn. 'Birdswood' is run by the Friends of Cromford Canal. For information and booking please Tel: 07552 055455 or Email: [email protected]

The Friends of Cromford Canal tripboat ‘Birdswood’

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e d d For all Middleton Top and EASTER EVENT MONDAY 17 APRIL High Peak Junction events - 10am-4pm. CROMFORD AND HIGH PEAK unless otherwise stated: RAILWAY WALK - HIGH PEAK JUNCTION Explore the history of the C&HPR on this

Meet: For locations see events listings. enlightening walk with Brian and Dave, ents Equipment: Suitable clothing and authors of their recently published walk footwear. Information: Middleton Top book. Meet: High Peak Junction workshops. 01629 533298. Parking charges apply. Length: 7.4 miles. Location: OS ref SK314 Information and Children under 16 years of age must be 560. Sat Nav DE4 5AA. 7 Ev booking: accompanied by an adult. Dogs welcome Middleton Top 01629 533298. 1 on leads. Cost: FREE. BOOKING ESSENTIAL.

50th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS SUNDAY 30 APRIL 9.30am-4.30pm. The Cromford and High Peak Railway FOUR RAILWAYS WALK AND RIDE You (C&HPR) closed in April fifty years ago. will discover the history and delights of 4 SATURDAY 8 to SUNDAY 23 APRIL THE railways and, what’s more, it’s 50 years to CROMFORD AND HIGH PEAK RAILWAY the day since the closure of the C&HPR. You PHOTO TRAIL Explore the High Peak Trail will ride on the Steeple Grange Light Railway and discover its history with a wide range of and the Derwent Valley and Ecclesbourne photos from our archives. See the waggons, Valley Railway. It is a real ‘feet and seat’ locomotives and inclines in use. Photos are experience walking to, and riding on, the d Canal 20 on display at key points all the way from operating railways. Bring a packed lunch.

Middleton Top down to High Peak Junction. Cost: Walk is FREE but donations to Mayor’s or Length: 2.5 miles. Cost: FREE. Parking charity and Middleton Top and Leawood charges apply on our sites. Pump Group gratefully received, plus cost of railway admission, approximate total £15. Meet: Length: EASTER EVENT SATURDAY 15 APRIL Wirksworth Station. 4 miles. omf to MONDAY 17 APRIL 11am-3pm. HIGH Location: OS ref SK 290 541. Sat Nav DE4 PEAK JUNCTION RAILWAY WORKSHOPS 4FB. Information and booking: Middleton OPEN DAYS Entry to these historic railway Top 01629 533298. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. workshops and use of the fascinating Audio Tour, is FREE. Just on Saturday make your FRIDAY 12 MAY 7pm-8.45pm. own poker in the forge, £10 per poker. CROMFORD AND HIGH PEAK RAILWAY SLIDE TALK It is 50 years since the closure EASTER EVENT SUNDAY 16 APRIL of this historic and unique railway and this 10am-2.30pm. CROMFORD AND HIGH slide talk will delight you with the locos, PEAK RAILWAY WALK - MIDDLETON tracks, inclines and stories of the workers. ail and Cr r TOP Explore the history of the C&HPR on You'll also be brought up-to-date with the this enlightening walk with Brian and Dave, route and its use as the High Peak Trail. Join authors of their recently published walk Andy Pollock and Rick Jillings for this not to Meet: book. Meet: Middleton Top Visitor Centre. be missed evening. Derbyshire Eco

Length: 5.6 miles. Location: OS ref SK 278 Centre, Porter Lane, Middleton by

Cost Location: eak T 552. Sat Nav DE4 4LS. Information and Wirksworth. : £3. OS ref Information booking: Middleton Top 01629 533298 SK285 554. Sat Nav DE4 4LS. and booking: Cost: FREE. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. 01629 533038. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. High P

View from the High Peak Trail 20 SATURDAY 9 and SUNDAY 10 SEPTEMBER HERITAGE OPEN DAYS 2017 A countrywide festival with many venues open for FREE. Visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk ents for details. FREE entry to our historic railway workshops at High Peak Junction and use of the fascinating Audio Tour. The Engine House at Middleton Top is also open,1pm-4.30pm. FREE

7 Ev entry, donations gratefully received. 1 DISCOVERY DAYS IN THE DERWENT VALLEY MILLS WORLD HERITAGE SITE THURSDAY 1 JUNE to MONDAY Lots of family activities, including walks, 31 JULY PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION workshops and talks, over two weeks in Competition open to all non-professional October (from Saturday 14 to Sunday 29 photographers. Categories: High Peak Trail or October), taking in half term. Learn about Cromford Canal. Entries will be displayed at the World Heritage Site in informative and High Peak Junction Visitor Centre from entertaining ways. Something for all ages and 1 to 14 August and will be open to public many events are FREE. In the final weekend, vote. Full terms and conditions will be enjoy a host of activities around Cromford d Canal 20 available from our Visitor Centres. and Masson Mills, the canal and in Cromford village, including this Countryside Service or AUGUST SUMMER HOLIDAY event below. Access the full programme at ACTIVITIES SATURDAY 22 JULY to www.derwentvalleymills.org. SUNDAY 3 SEPTEMBER 11am-4pm. Turn up any time. SELF-LED ACTIVITIES FOR THE SATURDAY 28 OCTOBER and SUNDAY omf SCHOOL HOLIDAYS. 1. Heritage Trail 29 OCTOBER 11am-3pm. Turn up any time. Treasure Hunt around High Peak Junction. HIGH PEAK JUNCTION OPEN DAY Visit some Follow the route of the Audio Trail with our of the oldest railway workshops in the world Question and Answer sheets available from and see them come alive. You will also be able the Visitor Centre. Cost: £1 per child. Parking to learn the fascinating history of this building charges apply. Location: High Peak Junction and the industry it served. Have-a-go on the OS ref SK314 560. Sat Nav DE4 5AA. forge and, with the help of our Engine House 2. Mini-Beast Hunts around Middleton Top Wardens, make a poker to take home and and Redhill Quarry. Collect your bug catching keep. Cost: FREE workshop entry and FREE Heritage Audio Tour. £10 charge to have-a-go ail and Cr pots, nets and insect identification cards from r the Visitor Centre. Cost: £1 per child. Parking on the forge and for each poker you make. Location: charges apply. Location: Middleton Top OS Parking charges apply. OS ref SK314 ref SK275 552. Sat Nav DE4 4LS. 560. Sat Nav DE4 5AA. Follow the brown tourist signs from Cromford. Information: FOREST SCHOOL FUN THURSDAYS Middleton Top Visitor Centre 01629 533298. AT CROMFORD WHARF 3, 10, 17 & 24 eak T AUGUST 2 sessions: 10am-12 noon, 1pm- 3pm. Children’s activities including bushcraft, ecotherapy, den building etc., Materials provided. Cost: FREE. Parking charges apply. Location: OS ref SK300 570. Sat Nav DE4 3RP. Email: [email protected] Courtesy of Steve Mellor

High P BOOKING ESSENTIAL. 07764 511 463.

SATURDAY 5 and SUNDAY 6 AUGUST 10am-5pm. Turn up any time. CROMFORD SCARECROW FESTIVAL Follow the scarecrow trail around Cromford Mills. ALSO THAT WEEKEND: Leawood Pump The historic narrow boat ‘Birdswood’ will will be in steam nearby, and ‘Birdswood’, the lead you along the Cromford Canal to High horse-drawn canal boat, will be in operation, Peak Junction where you will find more with lots of activities at Cromford Wharf, scarecrows. Leawood Pump is in steam over organised by the Friends of Cromford Canal. the weekend 12 noon to 5pm. 21 Steam Heritage 2017 Leawood Pump and Middleton Top Engine House Operating Days See a powerful part of history in action and visit these Leawood Pump Operating Days - magnificent beam Leawood Open 12 noon to 5pm engines Pump Leawood Pump is situated on the Cromford Canal, a short walk from High Peak Junction. Built in 1849 to pump water from the River Derwent into the canal, it operated for almost 100 years. It remains in pristine condition due to the hard work of volunteers from Leawood Pump Group and staff from the Countryside Service. Come and experience the power of this Easter Sunday 16 April great steam engine as it pumps Monday 17 April 4 tons of water with each May Bank Sunday 30 April piston stroke. Holiday Monday 1 May June Saturday 3 June Directions: Park at High Peak Sunda y 4 June Junction car park, signed from July Sunday 2 July Cromford, or enjoy a pleasant August Saturday 5 August walk of just over a mile along Sunday 6 August the Cromford Canal from August Bank Sunday 27 August Cromford village. Holiday Monday 28 August September Saturd ay 16 September Charges Sunday 17 September Leawood Pump is free but October Saturd ay 7 October donations are gratefully received. Sunday 8 October Parking charges also apply. Discovery Days Saturday 28 October 11am-4pm Sunday 29 October

Middleton Top Engine House Operating Days - Middleton Top Engine House Open 1pm to 4.30pm Middleton Top Engine House is a Scheduled Ancient Monument containing a superb working beam engine, built by the Butterley Company in 1829. Using the power of steam, the engine raised and lowered wagons on the Middleton Incline of the Cromford and High Peak Railway. Easter Sunday 16 April Directions: From the A6 at Monday 17 April Cromford, climb the B5036, and May Bank Sunday 30 April follow the signs. Holiday Monday 1 May Spring Bank Sunday 28 May Holiday Monday 29 May Charges June Sunday 4 June Admission charges apply at July Sunday 2 July Middleton Top. Parking charges Sunday 23 July also apply. Sunday 30 July August Sunday 6 August Group Visits Sunday 13 August Visits to Middleton Top Engine Sunday 20 August House and Leawood Pump can August Sunday 27 August be arranged for individual Bank Holiday Monday 28 August schools, societies and groups. Heritage Saturday 9 September Tel: Middleton Top Visitor Centre Open Days Sunday 10 September for details on 01629 533298. October Sunday 8 October

22 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 its all at competitive prices. many fantastic connecting routes. Call 01629 533294 or visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/cycling Open weekends and school holidays from mid February until the end of October. Open every day June, July and August. Open 9.30am-5pm, or dusk if earlier. Parking charges apply. Middleton Top Visitor Centre, Middleton-by-Wirksworth, Derbyshire DE4 4LS Exhibitions, woodland park, sculpture trail, indoor and Come and be transported back in time with our authentic village outdoor playgrounds, family street. Experience the gentle rumble of trams passing by while you activities, cafe, refreshments soak up the atmosphere. Whatever the weather, enjoy a fabulous day and shops. Special 2017 events out packed with excitement, adventure, unlimited electric programme - see website tram rides and a little learning along the way. UNLIMITED for details. ENTRY FOR 12 MONTHS Unlimited Electric with full priced Tram Rides admission tickets Family TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY Activities

A6 to Nostalgic Buxton & Village Setting Manchester A615 it’s a fabulous day out! Matlock 28 Cromford SITUATED NEAR MATLOCK Alfreton Crich Tramway Village, Crich, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 5DP AND ONLY 8 MILES FROM Ripley M1 JUNCTION 28 A610 Tel: 01773 854 321 Email: [email protected] A6 A38 A50 to 26 www.facebook.com/ Derby @CrichTramway Stoke www.tramway.co.uk CrichTramwayVillage & M6 A38 to Birmingham M1 South

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.

25 Relax… in beautiful surroundings The gardens around our Visitor Centre, next to the Chesterfield Canal are hidden away below the bustle of the surrounding roads. This beautifully restored section of the Chesterfield Canal was first built in 1777 to serve the lead and coal mining industries of Chesterfield and the Peak District. The canal was abandoned, after the collapse of the Norwood Tunnel at Killamarsh in 1907, but through the combined efforts of Derbyshire County Council and the Chesterfield Canal Trust it is now restored as a haven for both wildlife and people.

Enjoy a picnic at one of the waterside picnic areas and just take a moment to look and listen, you might catch a glimpse of our elusive water voles; listen for a 'plop' as they drop into the water, or see the flash of the iridescent kingfisher flying past.

You'll find the towpath and trail are easy accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs terfield Canal plus, we have a Tramper all-terrain scooter available for hire at the Visitor Centre.

Water Vole Courtesy of Danny Green

Explore All year round you can walk, jog or cycle along five miles of surfaced towpath, apton Lock and the Ches known locally as the 'Cuckoo Way'. Why T not explore further afield along the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) to Sheffield and beyond?

If you want a different view of the canal, you can launch a canoe or day boat from our slipway (just call us for more details) or jump aboard the Chesterfield Canal Trust trip boat and enjoy the canal from the water.

Anglers can enjoy fishing the canal in different places, from one of the agreed fishing platforms. Williamthorpe Angling Club manages the fishery here and you can get a day ticket from the Visitor Centre or from the bailiff on the bank. Sailing along the Chesterfield Canal

26 Indulge Pop into the Visitor Centre and savour the taste of freshly ground coffee or try one of our selection of fine teas.

Why not make yourself cosy and enjoy a sandwich, sausage roll or one of our tasty cakes? And we believe it's never too cold for ice cream - our freezer is stocked all year round. terfield Canal

Treat yourself We have a range of Fairtrade gifts, and the kids can pick up a pocket money toy.

You can choose from a variety of Chesterfield Canal Trust souvenirs, maps covering the wider area and we can offer a wide variety of free walk, cycle and local attraction leaflets.

Stay in touch To Tapton Lock Sheffield Website: Visitor Centre www.derbyshire.gov.uk/taptonlock A61 By-pass Facebook: Sainsburys www.facebook.com/Derbyshire Lockoford To M1 Countryside Whittington Junction 30 Lane Email: Moor Tesco [email protected] Chesterfield CanalA619 apton Lock and the Ches Find us

T Tapton Lock Visitor Centre, A61 By-pass Visitor Lockoford Lane, Chesterfield S41 7JB Centre 01629 533020. Stonegravels Tel: Open 7 days a week all year round from 10am-4pm. (Closed for lunch Monday to Friday 1pm-1.45pm) Closed Christmas Day. Chesterfield Town Centre From the north M1 junction 30, follow the A619 towards Chesterfield. From south M1 junction 29, take A617 towards Chesterfield. A617 All routes from the A61 – look for the To M1 brown canal boat signs on the A61 near To Derby Junction 29 Tesco.

27 For all Tapton Lock events - FRIDAY 21 APRIL 11am-3pm. unless otherwise stated: DUCKS, DRAKES AND DUCKLINGS How many can you see? Jump aboard the John Meet: Tapton Lock Visitor Centre. Varley or walk the towpath and follow the

Equipment: Suitable clothing and duck trail counting and colouring your ducks. ents footwear. Location: OS ref SK388 729. Sat Come back to the Visitor Centre and make Nav S41 7JB. Information and booking: your duck hat or swan puppet. Cost: £3 per Tapton Lock Visitor Centre 01629 533020. child (extra charge for boat trips).

Children under 16 years of age must be 7 Ev FRIDAY 2 JUNE 11am-3pm. DUCKS, accompanied by an adult. Dogs welcome 1 on leads. DRAKES AND DUCKLINGS See 21 April for details. EASTER EVENT FRIDAY 14, SATURDAY 15 and SUNDAY 16 APRIL SATURDAY 17 JUNE 10am-12 noon. 11am-3pm. EASTER EGGCITEMENT Come DISCOVER ORCHIDS Some of the county's along to the Chesterfield Canal and take an old colliery sites have been transformed into Easter Cruise aboard the John Varley II. country parks and local nature reserves. Every child gets an Easter Egg and their Pleasley Pit Country Park is one of our finest grown-ups can enjoy hot drinks and hot and the best place to find British orchids in our cross buns. While you are waiting for your area. Join members of the nature study group boat you can join in with Easter crafts in the and find out why. Meet: Colliery car park, Pit Visitor Centre. Cost: £7 for boat trips plus Lane, Pleasley. Length: 2 miles. Equipment: small charge for craft activities. Suitable clothing and footwear. Cost: FREE in partnership with Pleasley Pit Nature Study CHESTERFIELD AREA WALKING Group. Information and booking: Tapton FESTIVAL SATURDAY 6 MAY-SUNDAY 14 Lock Visitor Centre 01629 533020. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. MAY Join one of over 50 walks exploring terfield Canal 20 the beautiful countryside around Chesterfield. Take a very short stroll and SATURDAY 15 JULY 10am-12 noon. discover or stretch DISCOVER BUTTERFLIES Pleasley Pit is your legs with the challenging 34 mile transformed from colliery to local nature Round Chesterfield Walk with Chesterfield reserve and has some of the best habitat for Ramblers, who are celebrating 50 years of butterflies in our area. Come along and join walking. For details of all the walks go to members of the nature study group for a www.chesterfieldwalkingfestival.co.uk butterfly hunt on the country park. Meet: or pick up the walking festival booklet from Colliery car park, Pit Lane, Pleasley. Length: Tapton Lock Visitor Centre or Chesterfield 2 miles. Equipment: Suitable clothing and Visitor Information Centre. Join our staff on footwear. Cost: FREE in partnership with ` THURSDAY 11 MAY 10am-12.30pm. Pleasley Pit Nature Study Group. Information TAKING NEW STEPS ALONG THE and booking: Tapton Lock Visitor Centre ARCHAEOLOGICAL WAY The ongoing 01629 533020. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. programme to develop the Archaeological Way takes fresh steps this year. We will FRIDAY 28 JULY 11am-3pm. ROSES explore a newly opened section of the trail AND CASTLES Join us at Tapton Lock and from Whaley Thorns towards Creswell. This paint your own narrowboat! Roses and castles circular route crosses fields to return to the traditionally decorated boats working the station. Meet: Langwith-Whaley Thorns canals; today you can paint your own mini Railway Station. Length: 4 miles. Location: boat and decorate plates or spoons in the OS ref SK529 709. Sat Nav NG20 9DE. same traditional style. The John Varley II is Cost: FREE. BOOKING ESSENTIAL via running trips today, so you can jump aboard a Chesterfield Visitor Information Centre on modern narrow boat and take a leisurely 01246 345777 or the online address above. cruise. Cost: £3 per child (extra charge for boat trips). apton Lock and the Ches Model Village at Creswell T

28 FRIDAY 1 SEPTEMBER 11am-3pm. ROSES AND CASTLES See 28 July for details.

SATURDAY 16 and SUNDAY 17 ents SEPTEMBER 11am-4pm. TAPTON LOCK FESTIVAL Our Tapton Lock Festival celebrates all that’s good about our canal. We are joining Junction Arts for a weekend of arts, crafts and

7 Ev outdoor activities. You can enjoy live music in

1 the marquee and try your hand at various crafts. If you've a head for heights then see how quickly you can scale the climbing wall, or if water is more your thing then have-a-go at canoeing. Look out for more details on posters and banners closer to the event. Cost: FREE. Charges for some activities.

SATURDAY 21 OCTOBER TO ‘All in a flap’ by Catherine Swain SUNDAY 29 OCTOBER 10am-3pm. ALL TUESDAY 1 AUGUST-THURSDAY 31 ABOUT AUTUMN It’s half term and time to AUGUST CHESTERFIELD CANAL YOUNG get out and enjoy some leaf kicking! Pick up a PHOTOGRAPHER COMPETITION Calling all self-led quiz trail sheet from the Visitor Centre budding young photographers! Get your and explore the Chesterfield Canal. See if you can find all our mini-beast and autumn facts cameras out and your boots on. Come and Cost: explore the Chesterfield Canal and bring us hidden along the towpath. £1.50 per your pictures. The competition is open to sheet. terfield Canal 20 young people 16 or under. Your pictures can be taken anywhere on the canal at any time Give the climbing wall a go of year, but must be submitted to the Visitor Centre during August. Winners will be selected by public vote. Cost: FREE to enter. Information: Details and entry forms with full Terms and Conditions from Tapton Lock Visitor Centre 01629 533020.

TUESDAY 1 AUGUST 11am-3pm. SCAVENGE AND MASKS Celebrate the school holidays in the fresh air on the Chesterfield Canal. Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet from the Visitor Centre. When you've collected all the items on the list come back and make a mask or headdress that reminds you of summer. Cost: £3 per child.

SATURDAY 5 AUGUST 10am-12 noon. DRAGONS AND DAMSELS The dragonfly ponds at Pleasley Pit Country Park attract many different species of dragonflies and damselflies. Join members of the nature study group to discover why it is one of the best sites in Derbyshire and see how many of the 19 recorded species you can spot. Meet: apton Lock and the Ches Colliery car park, Pit Lane, Pleasley. Length: T 2 miles. Equipment: Suitable clothing and footwear. Cost: FREE in partnership with Pleasley Pit Nature Study Group. Information and booking: Tapton Lock Visitor Centre 01629 533020. BOOKING ESSENTIAL.

29 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 Discover Countryside Sites across Derbyshire... Whether you're looking for an exciting day out with the family or a side quiet picnic spot, we offer a wonderful variety of countryside sites to fit the bill. These range from local footpaths to national trails, large country parks to small picnic sites, from flower-rich hay meadows to canals and wetlands. We offer lots of facilities for disabled visitors, easy-going routes, tramper hire and parking. Discover some of our hidden gems with historic buildings and woodlands to enjoy.

Walking, cycling and horse riding are great ways to explore the countryside and get more active. If you want to visit somewhere new, then one of our self-guided walks or countryside leaflets could be just the thing. Each leaflet serves as both map and guide. Leaflets are available from our Countryside Visitor Centres and some can be downloaded online. There is lots of information to get you started at: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside and www.facebook.com/DerbyshireCountryside

Public Rights of Way and Greenways... Our wider country 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/ 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

32 Public Transport… When visiting the countryside events or our countryside sites why not leave the car behind and travel by public transport? By reducing the number of cars on the road we can tackle side congestion and pollution problems which threaten to destroy the very environment people are going to visit. Buses run from and to villages and towns across Derbyshire, with many running every day.

To find the most suitable local bus or rail service contact Traveline on 0871 200 22 33 (7am to 10pm). Calls cost 12p per minute plus your phone company's access charge. 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. Our wider country

Car Parking with Season Tickets… Some of our countryside destinations offer excellent pay and display parking facilities, disabled access and some have Changing Places toilet facilities with specialist equipment. These wonderful locations include: • Elvaston Castle Country Park • Shipley Country Park (at Coppiceside and Mapperley) • Lea Bridge (High Peak Junction) • Cromford Wharf • Black Rocks • Middleton Top • Hayfield If you visit these destinations regularly, why not consider the annual season ticket and the benefits this affords you. Cars and motorcycles - £72.60 Annual Season Ticket. Coaches, lorries and horse boxes - £145.20 Annual Season Ticket. Season tickets are available to purchase from the Visitor Centres at Elvaston Castle Country Park, Shipley Country Park and Middleton Top. More information can be found at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside.

Our countryside sites in North East Derbyshire and Bolsover have introduced a Horse box parking scheme to allow riders coming to our multi-user trails (Greenways) access to designated parking areas. Information and application forms are available on the website or contact Tapton Lock Visitor Centre on 01629 533020.

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: Call Derbyshire 01629 533302 Email: [email protected] Visit: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countrysidevolunteering

33 Reopening May 2017

Discover the Wonders of the Peak: a journey through time and place

Explore the heritage of the Peak District through geology, archaeology and artistic endeavours

Discover the collections and tour the local landscape using www.pocketwonders.co.uk

Enjoy activities and events at the museum and out in the countryside

Find out more:

W W W www.derbyshire.gov.uk/buxtonmuseum

/buxtonmuseumandartgallery

@BuxtonMuseum

collectionsinthelandscape.wordpress.com Woodland Festival 2017 Elvaston Castle Country Saturday 23 and Park Sunday 24 September 2017 10am - 5pm Come and enjoy Derbyshire County Council’s Woodland Festival, celebrating traditional and contemporary woodland crafts. Watch expert craftspeople at work and have-a-go yourself at some of the skills on display. A weekend to suit all ages with lots to see, do and experience.

Cost: Special event parking charges apply all weekend: £8 per car/£4 per motorcycle all day. £12 weekend ticket available. See voucher below for £1 parking discount. Charges for some activities.

Location: OS ref SK406 330 Sat Nav DE72 3EP

Information Contact: Elvaston Castle 01629 533870.

Scan this QR code with your smartphone for more information. www.derbyshire.gov.uk/woodlandfestival

Present this voucher at the 2017 Woodland Festival and you will get £1 off your daily parking charge. Please add your post code to validate this voucher...... Only valid for the weekend 23 and 24 September 2017.