Cocking Tor from Matlock via High Tor

This is a great day walk which is a circular route from Matlock.

It starts by ascending the great limestone cliff of High Tor which towers over the River Derwent. The view from the summit area of the tor is very impressive, all the more so because the cliff edge is totally unfenced and even those with a head for heights are likely to find the drop unnerving.

There is an excellent view of Matlock Bath and the Heights of Abraham on the opposite hill and for those with strong nerves, a narrow path called Giddy Ledge, winds across part of the cliff.

We then pass by the the ruins of Riber Castle and Tansley Moor to a steep and rocky path up to Cocking Tor where we will stop for our lunch. Cocking Tor is a gritstone crag favoured by climbers, who have given some to the climbs rather amusing names!

The crag is also used as a launch point for paragliders and has great views of the surrounding countryside and Ogston Resevoir.

After lunch head back via the picturesque Lumsdale Valley, where ruined industrial mills and breathtaking waterfalls can be found. We then return through Matlock Green to our starting point in Matlock and maybe a well deserved pint of ale.