Amber Valley Hidden Treasures (day walk)
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The Amber Valley in Derbyshire is well known for its famous attractions such as ‘The Tramway Museum’ at Crich and the ‘Heights of Abraham’ with those cable cars that span the gorge at Matlock, so those of you who hate cable cars will be pleased to know that we won’t be dangling on a bit of wire suspended high up. What I can offer you, however, is stunning picture postcards views, sleepy quiet waters to cascading dramatic loud waterfalls. This linear route will take you through some quiet, hidden spots of the Amber Valley with plenty of spectacular views and steep climbs and descents.
The route is steeped in history with the famous Crich Tower which stands at a commanding position across the valley stands as a memorial to the Sherwood Foresters Regiment who died fighting in World Wars 1 & 2.
The Cromford Canal (disused) has anamazing tranquillity about it with no moving traffic, is hidden from everyday hustle and bustle. It is hoped one day that this stunning canal is re-connected to the canal network.
Lumsdale Waterfalls are reasonably well known in the local area and are one of the top-rated series of waterfalls in the country. In a wooded gorge this was once home to 6 waterwheels now reclaimed by nature and is home to a stunning trek through this valley.
Matlock (split into two parts: Matlock and Matlock Bath) is a hive of activity in the summer months, with tourists and bikers who meet for rallies. The town park is one of the best examples of stunning flower displays and a fabulous mint condition band stand. I can also personally recommend the ice cream on the stall in the park - who knows what the weather may hold in April!
What to bring
April can be a strange time of year with the weather could be anything from a mini-heatwave (yes can happen in UK) to that amazing fun fluffy white stuff, snow!
Please keep a eye on the weather and kit up according to the conditions. I would recormended an essential piece of kit being a good sturdy but comfortable pair of walking boots as this will help you on the climbs as well as any walking poles you may have.
A good waterproof will also be essential for the section through Lumsdale, always worth bringing a set of clean dry clothes to leave in cars if you do find you get a tad wet makes for a much nicer journey home!
Food & drink
Please do bring a good hearty packed lunch as you will need plenty of engery and sustinance to keep you going throughout the walk. There are a few steep climbs so some additional engery snacks is highly advised as well as plenty of fluid to take with you on the walk.
There are no shops, or establishments for supplies anywhere on this walk and this does include Whatstandwell Railway Station so please do ensure you bring/ buy your supplies before the walk starts.