Holidays & Travel

with Al Hidden

Many years ago, I nearly moved to Derbyshire with work. Fortunately – as it happens, a bullet well dodged – the move didn’t happen. However, while researching possible places to live, I was struck by the stunning landscapes between Ashbourne and the market town of Buxton. Excellent walks close to town

Several decades later, it was a pleasure to spend a few days in Buxton, an easy drive up the M5, M6 and A53 from Gloucestershire. Not only is the town great for a Peak District ‘city break’, but it’s also perfect for exploring on foot, on two wheels or by car.

There’s loads of choice within a short drive – or without driving if you choose the lovely Ring of Trees walk (10 miles) or explore Combs Moss’s moderately challenging circumnavigation. Whatever you do, always take suitable equipment and follow good hill-walking practice, including bringing suitable maps. All walks mentioned are on OS Explorer OL24.

On a day of less clement weather, the circular Ring of Trees through Buxton’s ‘urban’ woodlands made a great introduction to this northern spa town and its environs. We started at Poole’s Cavern Visitor Centre and headed clockwise via Shay Woods and Corbar Woods before finishing the day with a picnic and breathtaking views from Solomon’s Temple atop Grin Low Hill.

From our centrally located Airbnb apartment, all the town’s renowned highlights were nearby, including its Pavilion Gardens, impressive Devonshire Dome, famous opera house and tempting teashops. Leaving town, excursion potential ranges from highbrow Chatsworth House to wider exploration of landscapes such as Curbar Edge.

Our week’s highlight was undoubtedly the 10 mile (16 km) circular walk on the craggy escarpments of Curbar Edge and White Edge, half an hour east of Buxton. The company was congenial and Mother Nature arranged great weather – plus a basking adder and swooping curlew – to accompany the awe-inspiring 360-degree panoramas. In autumn, I’m told, rutting stags are a regular sight – and sound – on the walk. Afterwards, on most Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, you can enjoy delicious home-baked goodies at Jolly’s Coffee & Cake in Clodhall Lane car park. For various reasons, I’m glad I didn’t move to Derbyshire. Avoiding relocation back then only made our recent trip even more special. It’s not just Sarah’s amazing sausage rolls, chocolate brownies and vintage Citroën catering van that come highly recommended when you visit Derbyshire! The Local Answer To advertise call 01242 510500 Page 7

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