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Whether you are a hectic hiker, an intrepid trekker, a regular rambler, a pub walker, a family stroller or a toddler (of any age!), Vicarage Farm Cottages will not disappoint. The Limestone Way, the longest signed footpath within the Peak District, adjoins Vicarage Farm, as does the Pennine Bridleway and the National Trail, which is the longest bridleway in the Peak District and links Derbyshire and the South Pennines. Once you have arrived at Vicarage Farm, forget your car keys and enjoy, from your doorstep, the best of limestone walking, whether over peaks or through dales. There are circular routes for all ages and abilities. The owners are keen walkers with knowledge of the area and of the limitations of our older and younger guests! An extensive array of guide books are available and guided walks can be organised for groups with some notice.
Vicarage Farm is also within a mile stroll of 2 national nature reserves at Hay Dale and Monk’s Dale, two separate limestone dales which showcase the best of limestone flora and fauna. (http://www.english-nature.org.uk/). By prior arrangement guided nature walks can be arranged for groups or families. These guided walks are tailored to the age and interests of the participants, so advance booking is essential. Try nearby Litton which is a wonderful starting point for some beautiful walks through hills, woods, river valleys and meadows. Take a short walk with views north towards Eyam Edge and the Hope Valley beyond and south over the village and towards Cressbrook and the Wye Valley.
Walk on to Cressbrook Dale and see Cressbrook Mill - once owned by Henry Newton's father William. Turn right along the river to find Henry's own Litton Mill, or turn left and walk the trout stream all the way to the spectacular Monsal Head and Monsal Dale. www.visitpeakdistrict.com/walkingfestivals Vicarage Farm Cottages are in an elevated but sheltered position surrounded by the White Peak with its miles of dry stone walls. The best walking map for the area is Ordnance Survey Outdoor Leisure 24 entitled ‘The Peak District White Peak Area’.
These additional links may also be of interest:
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Group bookings can be made by rambling groups and outdoor pursuit operators, when guests require ‘hotel’ rather than hostel comfort after a day’s walking, with sauna and relaxation in their own cottages.
Walk to the east end of the village over a few stiles and you're in the amazing orchid-filled Tansley Dale part of the Derbyshire Dales National Nature Reserve. Take the path past the old lead mine shafts and then follow the winter stream south into the most mysterious Ravensdale with it's amazing litchen-clad woods.
The Peak District was the birth place of free access for ramblers and offers the opportunity for endurance marathons. Experienced walkers enjoy the challenge of the first stretch of the Pennine Way, from its start at the moorland village of Edale to the summit and plateaux of Kinder Scout and Bleaklow (both above 2,000 feet OD).