Lee Howdle has lived around Derbyshire for most of his life.
Even though he now resides less than an hour away in Arnold, Nottinghamshire, he regularly returns to the Peak to photograph his favourite spots.
As a self-taught semi-professional photographer, he has had his work published across multiple publications, as well as exhibitions in the UK and around the world.
Capturing landscapes through photography helps him relax from his high-pressured job as a supermarket store manager.
He’s always keen to get his fix of the Peak District, even if that means getting up at 2am for a summer sunrise before heading to work.
Here, as part of a new monthly series, Lee shares his favourite hidden spots across the county.
What do you love most about Derbyshire?
Derbyshire is full of stunning valleys and charming villages and I love the fact that Derbyshire is the home of the Peak District, where I spend a lot of my time.
There are many picturesque scenes to be found there, from hills, edges and much more. Many of the honeypot spots are easily accessible too, which makes it easy to photograph at sunrise or sunset.
Your go-to hiking place?
My go-to hiking spot has to be Chrome Hill, which is located in the village of Glutton Bridge, near Buxton.
It’s a great walk to do, especially at sunrise. Standing at the top of Chrome Hill looking across towards Parkhouse Hill helps you understand why these set of hills are called ‘The Dragon’s Back’ - the arch of the hills with the limestone rocks makes it look remarkably like a dragon’s back. The hike takes approximately two hours.
Favourite photo hotspot?
My favourite hotspot for photography is the Great Ridge on Mam Tor. There is a gate there which is positioned brilliantly for sunrise photos.
It’s amazing when the conditions are right as you can be above the mist and it feels like you are above the clouds.
Favourite spot for the views?
A great spot for the views in Derbyshire is Winnats Pass - another sunrise location.
Winnats Pass is a winding road that goes up a limestone gorge in Castleton. You can see many hills from Winnats pass - Mam Tor, Kinder scout and Win Hill – to name just a few.
Your favourite Peak District village?
My favourite village in the Peak District has to be Castleton. I spend quite a lot of time driving through this village as it’s on the way to Mam Tor and Winnats pass.
There are a variety of lovely, characterful shops, pubs, tea rooms and more and it also has a nice little market.
The village looks so beautiful all year around, especially when they have their famous Christmas lights on.
Peveril Castle is also located in Castleton, which has a lot of rich history. It has also recently appeared in the hugely successful and popular Game of Thrones. The Old Barn shop nearby also sells my photography prints!
A place for a post-walk pint (or) bite to eat?
The George in Castleton is my favourite place in the Peak District to grab some food and a well-deserved pint.
It’s a really friendly pub and their food is absolutely delicious. They do amazing stone baked pizzas, which fill you up a treat after a good hike!
Three words that sum up Derbyshire?
Stunning. Picturesque. Adventures.
See more of Lee’s work over at - leehowdlephotography.co.uk and on Instagram @LeeHowdle
