The prehistoric site boasts a Neolithic chambered tomb and two Bronze-Age bowl barrows. There is a profound sense of peace and intimacy and you can’t help feel the long hand of history.
I have a real soft spot for Minninglow – easily identified by its distinctive ring of outer trees and taller beeches at its centre.
Park at Minninglow Car Park to start this 3.5-mile walk. Head west along the trail, the first views of Minninglow Hill opening up in front.
The cycling (walking and horse-riding) trail veers north then south again. Soon you will see the high stone wall of Minninglow Embankment ahead, an impressive piece of 19th century railway engineering.
Just before it on your left, there’s a disused quarry with an abandoned crane. Past the rusting machine is a signed concessionary path, set back from the trail. Follow it to ascend through fields and a series of wicket gates to Minninglow.
The prehistoric site boasts a Neolithic chambered tomb and two Bronze-Age bowl barrows. There is a profound sense of peace and intimacy and you can’t help feel the long hand of history.
Our ancestors sought out high points with superb outlooks where earth meets sky – the pre-historic version of church spires when man sought to get as close to heaven as possible. The sense of wonder and majesty these locations engender will touch your soul.
Go through the gap opposite the one you entered, and circumnavigate Minninglow’s boundary to appreciate its 360° views.
Make your way off the hill towards the old railway embankment, crossing a farm track down to the embankment tunnel. Go under it and continue to Royston Grange, turning right onto the track to pass the farm.
Heading uphill, go through the gate on the farm track, passing Royston Cottages. The surfaced lane brings you to Minninglow Lane. Turn left, following the quiet road enclosed by drystone walls. At its end turn right onto leafy Parish Lane.
Just before another railway tunnel, turn right onto Mouldridge Lane. You’ll come to Minninglow Car Park on your left, the end of a lovely White Peak ramble.
