Dale Abbey, the Hermitage, and Locko Park
18 people attending
12 places left
Bring in British summertime on this walk from Spondon, east of Derby. We head over fields with a view of Trent Valley and Leicestershire to the site of a Moravian Church and settlement, one of the oldest Protestant Denominations in Christianity. Recently, the Ockbrook settlement was a private school.
The route heads through Ockbrook village founded in 560 by Creoda one of whose followers may have had the personal name Occa (an Anglo Saxon) who established Ockbrook in the 6th century on the banks of a small stream, the Ock. From there we head across open fields and through woodland near Hopwell Hall to the Cow Shed cafe for a short break.
Dale Abbey ruins is a large stone arch, the remains of an impressive abbey dating from the 12th century. The abbey was forced to pay a fine following accusations of grave immorality among the canons before it dissolved in 1538. Dale Abbey is recorded as the site of the "Wedding of Allan-A-Dale", the third of the stories of Robin Hood. The tenor bell of Derby Cathedral allegedly belonged to Dale Abbey.
The Hermitage is a Hermit's Cave, overlooking the abbey ruins from woodland nearby, hewn out of the sandstone cliff by a 12th-century Derby baker who wished to live a life as a recluse.
We return through Locko Park. The oldest part of the house is the chapel of 1669, built close to the site of a hospital which was in existence at least as far back as 1296, dedicated to the care of lepers. The name Locko derives from the old French word for rags, loques, in reference to the strips of lint that were applied to sores.
We head past the lake, and then on to Bluebell Farm shop and tea room, renowned for its home-made dairy ice cream.
Distance 15 km (9.5 miles). Total ascent 274 m (899 feet). Approximately 5 hours.
Dogs
Well-controlled dogs are welcome but please keep dogs under control at all times.
All images taken by the event leader with permission for ODL use.
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What to bring
Please keep an eye on the forecast, be prepared for cold and, especially, wet weather - layer appropriately and bring wet-weather gear.
Below is a standard kit-list you may wish to draw from:
Suitable well-fitted walking footwear is most important to keep you safe and comfortable. Sturdy trainers with cushioned soles and a good grip are often suitable but proper walking boots or shoes in wet conditions or on uneven ground are preferable. Smooth soles with no grip are not suitable. Thick, well-fitted socks cushion your feet, help to keep you dry, and prevent blisters.
Layers of clothing you can easily put on and take off according to changing temperature and weather conditions help to keep you warm and comfortable. Choose a base layer (vest or t-shirt), a mid layer (micro-fleece or long-sleeved shirt), and in cooler weather add an outer layer (windproof jacket or thick fleece). Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry more quickly. Synthetic trousers are lighter and dry quicker than denim. Large pockets are useful. Demin jeans become heavy and cold in the rain and take ages to dry out. On warm days shorts may be suitable, but consider rough foliage such as brambles or nettles on some routes. Check for ticks when walking through long grass, etc. with bare legs. A hat or cap keeps your head and eyes shaded in direct sun. Sunglasses protect your eyes from glare and make it easier to see where you are going. Sun block is advisable during prolonged exposure. In colder weather or a biting wind, a hat, scarf and gloves are essential.
Bring waterproofs to stay dry in wet weather. Water resistant fabric loses effectiveness over time. It will need to be re-proofed or replaced periodically. Bring a towel and a set of dry clothes to change into if possible. A backpack rain cover helps to keep belongings dry. Gaiters are optional and help to keep lower legs and feet dry. An umbrella is impractical while walking.
A comfortable backpack (with suitable capacity for your gear and lunch), allowing you to use your arms freely, is suitable for most day walks.
Walking sticks are optional and may assist when climbing or descending, or on uneven ground.
Bring any essential medicine you may need during the day for hay-fever, diabetes, or any on-going ailments or conditions.
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch, plenty of water and any preferred drinks, food and snacks to keep you nourished during the day.
We will eat packed lunch about halfway through the walk.