2010

Rising in a peaty lump between Bingley, Ilkley and Keighley, Rombalds Mooris an oasis of wilderness in the industrial dales of Wes tYorkshire. It is comprised of a number of smaller moors, the most famous of which is Ilkley. This stretch of moor has produced what could well be called Yorkshire’s anthem – On Ilkley Moor Baht’At, where a young swain risks life and limb for the love of sweet Mary Jane.

Four villages feature in this walk, each widely differing in character. Sheldon is just one street climbing the hill; Monyash, with its green and pond, is a popular place for a stop; Flagg, in a shallow bowl in the hills is off the beaten track; Taddington nestles under the hill just off the main road.

Paths and tracks cross and recross the area, several leading to the Magpie Mine, the remains of which remind us of one of the main industries of the area. These days the site is a haven for flowers emerging in spring.

Just beyond the north-eastern boundary of the Peak District National Park the River Don cuts through a high gritstone landscape between the towns of Sheffield and Stocksbridge. Despite the proximity of housing and industry, a fine day’s walking can be enjoyed on the heights flanking the Upper Don Valley. The fast-flowing waters of the Don itself provide early interest, then steep slopes, woodland, reservoirs and hidden hamlets keep you going. At the cost of an occasional road crossing, this route shows that good walking is easily accessible outside our national parks.

Explore the gorgeous museums of the Severn Gorge World Heritage Site, before climbing gently through South Telford, glimpsing Madeley Court, a 16th-century Manor House (now hotel) before dropping back into the gorge through the narrow lanes of Ironbridge.
By Simon Whaley.

Beginning alongside the River Witham, this walk takes you through some of Lincolnshire's ancient limewoods, which contain the largest concentration of ancient small-leaved lime woodland in the UK.
By Alex Surridge.

A sheltered, wooded route that follows the River Don, with an abundance of flowers in spring and summer, and the nature reserve of Sprotbrough Flash, with its birdlife. Conisbrough has two gems: the church, which dates back to Anglo- Saxon times, and the castle, with one of the finest Norman keeps in the country. The river bridge at Conisbrough Station makes shorter walks possible.

A stunning viewing platform,legally accessible  now that the CROW Act has become law but not that long ago it was a different story, is the highlight of this marvellous moorland walk in the Peak. You’ll need your navigational wits about you on this route, but your pioneering spirit will be repayed by stunning views. Stone and hut circles, ancient paths and weird rock formations make this access walk a real feast of interest.
By Roly Smith.

A perfect way to explore three hidden gems of the East Midlands. Fotheringhay is steeped in royal history, its ruined castle being the birthplace of Richard III and the doom of Mary, Queen of Scots. The neighbouring villages of Nassington and Elton offer their own delights, with quiet streets, rustic shops and a picturesque village green. The route includes gentle, rolling hills and is ccompanied by the River Nene and its tributaries.