LEJOG
Distance walked – 21km (13.1miles)
Total Distance – 812.9km (508miles)
And I would walk 500 miles
And I would walk 500 more
Just to be the man who walks 1000 miles
To fall down at your door
The Proclaimers – I’m Gonna Be (500miles)
Brian and Margaret
Today we were back on the track after a three day rest. It was notable for a number of reasons including our 5 wonderful guest walkers, amazing sunny weather, and for Louisa and I passing the 500 mile mark during the walk. We are really excited that we have managed to walk so far, particularly as we still feel physically and mentally fresh, and are enjoying every day.
Today was, however, an easy day to enjoy, as we crossed the rolling green hills of Derbyshire in good company and with the sun shining down on us.
We set off from Biggin Grange early, sadly farewelling Louisa’s parents, who we have spent a lovely three days with. We crossed a couple of fields to reach the village of Biggin and our meeting point outside the pub where Dan, our old friend was already waiting. He was accompanied by his dogs, Monty and Ruby. Not long after, his wife Ange, and our other friends Carol, Mark, and their son Rory arrived, and our company was complete. It was so fantastic to see all these dear old friends after so long, and we all set off in high spirits.
Setting off from Biggin
Bountiful Bovine
It was not long until we encountered our first problem – a field with the greatest number of cows I have ever seen together in one place. They were all clustered along the line of the footpath, and seemed to be having an Annual General Meeting, with most of the herd gathered at the stile where we were meant to exit the field. There were many mothers with young calves as well. We proceeded carefully, as we had the dogs with us, and we have had a number of bad experiences already. All was going well, as we gingerly tiptoed up beside the wall, until I came face to face with the giant bull, ring glistening in its nose. “Oh, that bull” I said, as Louisa yelled at me. We retreated bravely. Seeing a gap up the other side of the field, we headed that way, and managed to shoo some feisty cows away from the exit and make our escape.
Along the Tissington Trail
We soon reached the safety and easy walking of the Tissington Trail, which is a well-known Peak District path, constructed on a disused railway line. (It was originally opened in 1971, making it one of the first converted rail trails in the UK). It is great to walk on, as it sits high in the landscape, above all the surrounding fields and offers magnificent views of the green hills and dales of South Derbyshire. We passed through some amazing cuttings and then on to the old railway junction of Parsley Hay.
Carol and Louisa on the Tissington Trail
At Parsley Hay, there was a cafe. Thinking it rude to pass up such an opportunity, the company stopped for mid-morning coffee and cake. Refreshed, we set off, through more cow fields (the motif of the day), got briefly lost (another recurring theme) before a gentle road walk down to the village of Monyash.
500 miles!!
Along the road, our GPS watch indicated that we had passed the 500 mile mark. A brief celebration, a photo, and we were on our way – only roughly 700 miles to go!
The Way to Monyash
We soon reached Monyash and The Bull’s Head pub (appropriately named for our recent experience). As it was just after 12pm, some pints were consumed (another theme), and we were regaled with Carol’s Monyash anecdote, a story long in anticipation which I would not want to spoil here. . . .
Bovine Drapery in the Bull’s Head
Louisa . ..
We managed to tear ourselves away, and set off again in glorious sunshine, T-shirts and even shorts on show (by the braver from the North). We were now following the Limestone Way again, and we walked via a number of old lanes and green ways to the village of Flagg, where we had lunch on the corner of Mycock Lane (much to the amusement of Louisa)
Afternoon Paths
Canine Capers
The afternoon was very enjoyable, with great conversation, as we crossed more fields, encountered more cows, and were treated to the most glorious day of walking (dogs had a great time too). The kilometres melted away as we followed ancient paths across the landscape of fields and dry-stone walls.
The final approach into Miller’s Dale was a highlight of the day, as we descended steeply through a nature reserve, with an amazing gorge laid out below us. Louisa and I left our companions at the Angler’s Rest pub, before walking on to our campsite to set up our tent (first night camping). We returned soon after for dinner, before sad farewells and goodbyes. Thanks to Dan, Ange Carol, Mark and Rory for a great day.
Miller’s Dale
Today’s Route
One Response
‘T’was a massive pleasure to join you LEJOGERS for the day as well as Carol, Mark & Rory (special thanks for the dog supervision stuff 😉). Lucky weather, great company and a few crafty beverages made it even better and helped erase the bovine trauma…😊