Beast of Bolsover Challenge

The ‘Beast of Bolsover’ is a 20 mile circular hike from Bolsover, passing historic houses along the way and taking its title from the fearsome nickname of local MP and keen walker Dennis Skinner.

The route takes in views of Bolsover Castle and the English Heritage and National Trust properties of Hardwick Hall and the old Sutton Scarsdale Hall, more recently famed as the deralict Wayne mansion in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Jusctice (see the clip here).

We will also see the preserved pithead buildings of Pleasley Colliery and its countryside with leaves starting to turn red and gold as we enjoy the villages of Heath, Palterton and Teversal, the setting for Lady Chatterley's Lover. 

This is coal mining country and although the mines have all but disappeared you will find a warm welcome in the communities that they have left behind.

Please bring some sandwiches to enjoy a picnic in the grounds of Hardwick Hall, or some money if you wish to buy hot food from the National Trust cafe.

Near the end of the walk there will also be a much needed pub stop so you can refuel and enjoy a drink (and a meal) at The Young Vanish Inn, Glapwell. Remembering we have just three miles to walk back to the cars afterwards, which thankfully will be a relatively flat finish with rewarding views of Bolsover Castle to greet us.

You will receive an epic bloody certificate to print out if you complete this walk, freshly clawed by the Beast of Bolsover!

Note: The pace of this hike will be quicker than a usual day walk and so will require a little more stamina - it's certainly not a gentle stroll. There will be snack stops and photo opportunities too, making this an enjoyable long walk which will go ahead in all weathers.