Chatsworth - a winter walk around the estate
16 people attending
9 places left
Chatsworth House – home of the Dukes of Devonshire – lies in the valley of the river Derwent surrounded by a mix of natural and man-made landscapes. The parkland was landscaped by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown in the 1750s. It’s one of Derbyshire’s iconic locations and the surrounding countryside provides plenty of opportunities to get outdoors!
This Sunday walk initially follows the park's western boundary over Calton Pastures before descending into the picturesque estate village of Edensor (pronounced 'Enzer'). We then cross through the park, passing close by Chatsworth House, the stableyard and the farmyard. From here the walk winds its way up through woodlands to the Hunting Tower and heads south along the eastern edge of the park, with a short stretch across open moorland. Passing by the Devonshire Arms in Beeley towards the end of the walk, we may stop for a drink before the last half-mile back to the start point.
The walk provides views over the hills and valleys to the west of Baslow. We’ll be walking along tracks, field paths and country lanes. The walk is 11 miles / 18 kilometres, with ascent of around 450 metres. It's possible to shorten this walk to around 7 miles / 11 kilometres by walking back along the river from Chatsworth House to Calton Lees.
A lift to Chatsworth, and return, should be possible if you can be at Buxton railway station by 09:30. Message the event leader to request a lift and include your phone number.
All photos by the event leader, with permission granted to OutdoorLads for their use.
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What to bring
Boots: your most important piece of kit: comfortable, waterproof, breathable and designed for hiking. Trainers may be OK, depending on how rough the ground is and if its dry. Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters. Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions.
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and to body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt), a mid layer (micro-fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (windproof jacket or thick fleece). Trousers: avoid jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, and take ages to dry out. Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry more quickly. On warm days shorts may be OK.
Waterproof jacket: carry one in your rucksack when walking in all but the calmest of weather. Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Hat or cap: useful for staying warm in winter and shaded in summer. Gloves: essential in winter and ideally waterproof.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, this should be comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely.
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter. Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days.
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated. Snacks: a range of biscuits, energy bars, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit (for example) are always good to have. Put them in your rucksack where they are easy to grab..
Water and other fluid: bring between one and two litres, depending on season of the year and temperature. A combination of water, fruit juice, energy drinks and a hot drink is a good idea.
Medicines: essential if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments, etc. A personal first aid kit with bandages and paracetamol or ibuprofen (for your own use only) is a good idea.
Hand sanitiser and a face covering: whilst we are living with Covid-19, please bring your own to events to help keep everyone safe.
Food & drink
Bring a packed lunch, snacks and plenty of water or other fluids (one to two litres) to drink. A hot drink is recommended!