Favourite walks taking in some of the area’s most beautiful views and wildlife-rich locations
Elvaston Country Park Surrounded by over 200 acres of woodland, parkland and formal gardens (which are best suited to a quiet on-the-lead stroll), Elvaston Country Park is a paradise for the public to enjoy. At the heart of the estate is Elvaston Castle - a Gothic Revival masterpiece built in the 1800s.
Cromford Canal The flat and tranquil canal path, dotted with benches and wildlife-watching points, is ideal for a gentle walk. The route stretches for just over five miles and begins at Cromford Wharf, near the famous mills of Richard Arkwright, passing High Peak Junction and Leawood Pumphouse (operating on selected dates), through Gregory Tunnel and past Whatstandwell Bridge to Ambergate.
Upper Derwent Valley Reservoirs With its deep-wooded valleys and bleak, rugged moorland, the Upper Derwent area is renowned for its spectacular scenery. There are tracks and trails to suit all tastes, from idyllic strolls by the water's edge to hikes on the moorland that will banish the winter cobwebs. Several circular trails start from Fairholmes visitor centre, while the Heatherdene car park is an ideal base for exploring the paths through the woodland and along the water's edge to the south of Ladybower Reservoir.
Goyt Valley Reservoirs, moorland, wooded hillsides and gritstone edges combine in the dramatic Goyt Valley. Highlights of walking here include the Errwood and Fernilee Reservoirs and the paths along their perimeters; the shrine near Foxlow Edge; the trig point on Shining Tor and the romantic park and ruins of 19th century Errwood Hall.
Chatsworth House On the banks of the River Derwent, surrounded by glorious parkland, Chatsworth House always looks particularly stunning when enveloped in winter frost. There are footpaths in every direction but one of the most scenic circular walks is from Calton Lees car park to the village of Beeley, up to an area known as the Rabbit Warren and across to Stand Wood, passing the Swiss Cottage, Emperor Lake and Hunting Tower, before arriving back at Chatsworth.
Lathkill Dale Renowned for its famous 'disappearing river', interesting geological features and abundance of flora and fauna, Lathkill Dale is one of the finest limestone dales and an area of outstanding natural beauty. For dogs that love to take a dip, the River Lathkill is renowned for its crystal-clear waters.
Buxton Country Park Allow your dog to let off steam in Grinlow Woods before taking a brisk 20-minute walk to the summit of Grin Hill where you'll find Solomon's Temple, a folly built in the 1890s. Pause here for a well-deserved breather and enjoy some spectacular views across the High Peak.
Always follow the Countryside Code and keep dogs under control and on leads, especially where there is livestock grazing
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