Todwick Ramblers Club Walks
14th February 2010
On Sunday 14 February 2010 a 14-strong party of walkers met up at the Post Office to walk to the Chesterfield Canal. Initially our route took us via a temporary diversion and then through an extremely muddy section of footpath to finally exit out by the Station Hotel.
Crossing the railway we joined a good number of other walkers, who like us were enjoying the scenic delights of the old Canal. Eventually leaving the canal towpath we made our way first to South Anston and then on to Anston Stones. Here we turned for home using Mill Lane and Axle Lane to complete a ramble of approximately 6 miles.
17th January 2010
On 17th January 2010 a party of 17 ramblers headed off for a conducted tour around Potteric Carr Nature Reserve, one of the largest urban nature reserves in the country. Susan Parker was to be our guide, and the mild and sunny day gave us just the tonic we needed after the previous weeks of bad weather.
The reserve looked stunning as we walked through the woodlands of silver birch, with the sun reflecting off frozen ponds and marshes, and the surrounding reed beds and rushes also catching the sunlight.
Unfortunately, the cold weather conditions over the past week or so had affected the normal behaviour patterns of the bird life. Therefore, the anticipated sightings of the many species resident in the reserve was lower than usual.
No-matter, it gives us a good reason to return in the springtime, was the general consensus of opinion as we returned to the cars, after enjoying a hot snack in the nature reserve's Low Ellers café.
9th January 2010
Saturday 9th January dawned to reveal another ongoing but eye-catching white mid-winter scene, created by approximately 12 inches of snow covering the fields around Todwick.
A hastily rearranged short 4 mile ramble attracted 15 well equipped walkers, who set off to enjoy almost Arctic conditions.
The outward leg to Hardwick over a crisp blanket of snow gave us good clear views with only the delicate but plentiful tracks of animals visible on the gleaming snowy surfaces.
After a short stop by the frozen-over pond at Hardwick to enjoy a quick hot drink, the party returned to Todwick, with the chill wind increasing in intensity, and the snow beginning to fall once again. All in all a different but very enjoyable outing.
28th December 2009
On Monday 28th December 2009 our group set off in festive fashion from Laughton to attend the annual Carol Concert held at Roche Abbey.
The weather on the day was remarkable and we were able to walk under clear blue and relatively warm sunny skies from start to finish, enjoying excellent views of the surrounding countryside along the way.
Roche Abbey in particular looked impressive and very atmospheric with its limestone columns and walls surrounded by crisp white snow reflecting the sunshine.
The simple Carol service led by Thurcroft Welfare Brass Band was attended by a congregation of approx. 250 people. After enjoying a mince pie and mulled wine our party, along with other groups made its way back to Laughton.
13th December 2009
Sunday 13th December brought in a mild sunny morning which encouraged 17 ramblers to meet up at the Todwick Post Office.
Our ramble was to encompass the Stan Rouse Way, a 6 mile circular route which incorporates a wide variety of interest points ranging from the fishing lakes at Aston to the extensive views available from the ridge overlooking New South Farm.
The wet weather experienced over the previous few days had resulted in a footpath network that was very muddy underfoot slowing the groups pace somewhat due to the sticky conditions.
Fortunately the day remained fine and dry just long enough for our leader Ann Rusling to return the group back to Todwick before the dark clouds and the rain returned.
'Away Walk' on 23rd November 2009
Following the weekend of the Lake District floods and heavy local rain walk leaders Di and Dave Haswell were keen to check the Met Office forecast for the Away Walk in Derbyshire. Starting at Birchover and taking in Rocking Stone Farm, Stanton Moor Edge and the Nine Ladies Stone Circle the walk promised breathtaking views over Matlock and the valley.
The Met Office promise of fine weather with the occasional light shower persuaded them to go ahead. The rain started as the group met in Birchover. 'A clearing shower,' Terry insisted. It was only bouncing knee high at this point. Eight intrepid souls set off. The rain cleared as the figure of eight route passed through Birchover suggesting visual delights from the edge of the moor.
Alpacas were spotted sheltering from an approaching deluge. 'In line for the wettest walk yet,' suggested a kindly Jim. He was later to suggest that the definition of finishing a walk in the dark could only be verified if the street lights were on. Peering into the gloom from the edge of Stanton Moor at noon the only things visible through the torrential rain were the street lights of Matlock.
A slightly damp and bedraggled group returned to their cars as the sun finally broke through leaving the group to negotiate the now flooded roads back to Todwick. 'A good walk,' barked Bob!
8th November 2009
Todwick ramblers held their usual walk on the second Sunday of the month lead by Christine and Bryan Ferris. We started from Todwick Post Office with 16 ramblers, just in time for the rain to start. The route today took us along Axle Lane to South Anston. At this point we picked up another member, Diane. So it turned into a nice large group of 17. We stopped at 11 am on the outskirts of South Anston to pay our respects to those who had died in various conflicts, by having a two minutes silence. By this time the rain had stopped.
We carried along a path which took us down to the Chesterfield canal, where we stopped to have our coffee and sarnies etc. From here we carried on along the canal to Kiveton Waters, onto Kiveton then to Storth Lane and back to Todwick.
Everyone enjoyed the walk, it gave us chance to catch up on all our news, blow away the cobwebs whilst enjoying some well needed exercise.
'Away walk' on 25th October 2009
The away walk on Sunday 25th October was lead by Ken Whetter. Starting at the Village Hall car park in Cuckney, where Ken outlined some of the features of this historic area, the group of 12 walkers headed across fields to the small village of Norton. With a stiff but sunny breeze at their backs, they then followed the Robin Hood way with views over the Welbeck Estate and its many lakes. Passing lodges and a memorial to one of the Duke of Portland's forebears, the group turned south through attractive woodlands to a brief coffee stop at an experimental husbandry farm (an odd concept as husbands need no improvement according to Ken!). The walk then continued to the outskirts of Medan Vale to cross farmland and the river Medan before arriving at Church Warsop for a slightly longer stop at the open spaces and mill pond of "The Carrs". The route continued, passing farms, then a farm track to the A632 road before climbing Mill Hill above the Cuckney Dam with its many water fowl. The final stretch passed the former mill, now a school, to return to the car park.
10th October 2009
On Sunday 10th October 2009 on a cool but clear day 12 members joined walk leaders Sheila and Jane for a 4.5 mile ramble that started at the Saxon crossroads.
The ramble began with a visit to the Kiveton Community Woodlands then followed recently opened footpaths to Harthill before turning off towards Woodall.
Along the way various flocks of birds were noted resting or feeding in the open fields, before possibly migrating to warmer climes.
After a pleasant coffee stop taken in Autumn sunshine we continued down Wallseker Lane with farmers busy in adjacent fields.
Our return to Todwick was by way of field paths leading to Wales, and the familiar scenery of Storth Lane.
September 2009
Two very contrasting walks were enjoyed by the club members during September, both lead by Helena and Terry Calladine.
Sunday the 13th was the date for our local walk. Meeting at Todwick Post Office, we followed the field paths over to Wales and then proceeded through the park down to meet the Cuckoo Way in Kiveton Community Woodlands.
Following the Cuckoo Way in an easterly direction we passed the entrance of the Norwood tunnel and followed the always peaceful canal to our rest stop.
Fully refreshed we climbed up to South Anston Church, and then returned to Todwick via Axle Lane and the field path.
Monday the 28th we met at School Lane Baslow for our away walk.
The walk commenced with a slow 1 mile climb up on to Baslow Edge at Wellingtons Monument, the views both during the ascent and from top rewarding us for the effort.
The walk then continued on an easy level path along the edge again with spectacular views in all directions.
Following our refreshment break, we descended from the edge and passed through the delightful village of Curbar using roads missed by the motorists, to arrive at the River Derwent.
Riverside paths then returned us to our starting point.
August 2009
On the 9th August, 14 members of the group lead by Janet Tompkin took the bus to Thurcroft. From there we leisurely walked along the mineral line up and over Dinnington woodlands to make our way back to Todwick via Axle Lane. The 5½ mile walk was enriched by good warm weather, just right for walking.
20th July 2009
This month's away walk lead by Helena and Terry Calladine on the 20th was a circular walk from the pretty Derbyshire village of Holymoorside.
After passing the Holymoor dam, which was used to provide water to the cotton mill until 1905, we climbed up through Moorlawn Wood, pausing frequently to admire the views of the village (or was it to get our breath back?). At the top of the climb Stone Edge was reached with a splendid panoramic view of Chesterfield and Norton in the far distance.
A gentle decent on tracks and field paths then took us to Stubbing Court, the birthplace of Lady Olive Baden-Powell the first Chief Guide, and wife of the founder of the Scout movement.
Following our refreshment break, we continued along field paths, via Walton Lodge (the former home of the Sutherland family well known in Todwick for their meat products factory) and Somersall Hall to return to our start point.
12th July 2009
The local walk took place on Sunday 12th lead by Ken Whetter. Following a short bus ride to Waleswood Road, Rother Valley Country Park was entered by a short footpath. This little known northern side of the park was found to be a hidden gem, more reminiscent of upland moorland than parkland only reclaimed from industrial waste land in the past 30 years. The enjoyment was further enhanced by Ken's in-depth knowledge of this area.
The better known paths were then followed to our refreshment break at Old Mill visitor's centre which was taken in the warm sunshine.
Field paths then lead us to Church Lane, Wales, before returning to Todwick down Storth lane.
June 2009 - Local Walk
The local walk took place on Sunday 21st lead by Bryan and Christine Ferris. 13 Todwick ramblers caught the 10.22 No 25 bus to Ulley reservoir. The walk then started along Reservoir Road. We then went onto a path that took us along the top of the reservoir, which then in turn led onto Stoket Lane. The walk up this lane was slow and steady due to it being a long climb, but we all made it ok. At the end of Stoker Lane we turned left along Penny Hill Lane then right onto High Lane. It was at this point we stopped for lunch.
After the break we continued down High Lane towards Hardwick Farm and the A57. We needed to cross the road to get to Todwick Common farm; this took some time as the road was very busy. Once across we carried on along the path into Todwick.
The walk was about 5 miles and took about 3 hours to complete. We all finished with smiling faces so it looked like we all enjoyed ourselves.
June 2009 - Away Walk
Our away walk this month, lead by Helena and Terry Calladine, centred again on the Chesterfield Canal starting and finishing at the delightful village of Clayworth.
The outward route followed various very pleasant tracks and field paths ascending to the viewpoint at Hayton Castle before descending again to meet the canal at the Boat Inn, Hayton.
The return route was then an easy walk along the towpath, passing the many narrow boats moored at Clayworth boat club, before arriving back at our starting point.
23rd May 2009
Our May away walk was centred around Chatsworth Park on Saturday 23rd May. The walk took in the delightful countryside of Stand Wood, Beeley Moor and Beeley Village.
Despite being a Bank Holiday weekend, once we had ventured more than a few minutes' walk from Chatsworth House, we had the countryside to ourselves with the exception of the occasional fellow walker.
10th May 2009
Sunday 10th May brought in a mild spring day, with glimpses of sunshine encouraging 12 of our members to join a 4 ½ mile leisurely circular ramble. Our walk leaders Jane & Sheila took us along pleasant country paths to the hamlet of Hardwick were we enjoyed our coffee stop by the picturesque village pond.
Our return to Todwick was by way of Hardwick Lane, Common Farm Aston & Goosecarr Lane with distant views of Sheffield beyond.
12th April 2009
Todwick Ramblers held their usual walk on the second Sunday of the month which was Easter Sunday. The walk took them to Kiveton Park through Loscar woods to Harthill reservoir. A pleasant lunch was eaten watching the boats peacefully navigating the buoys on the reservoir. The return journey followed the stream from Harthill to Kiveton Waters then along the bridle path to Todwick. The group of 14 enjoyed a beautiful sunny day and would like to wish Jim Tompkin a speedy recovery. The youngest member of the group was 5 years old.
April 2009
Our April "away walk" was completed by 8 members who explored the less populated areas of Clumber Park.
From our starting point at Truman's Lodge Gate we walked passed through Manton Forrest, Hardwick Wood and Carburton Hills to return to our starting point.
Despite the constant rain, the stroll through the carpet of bluebells shown to their best effect by the backdrop of vivid green freshly opened tree leafs, accompanied by spring birdsongs enhanced by the drumming of woodpeckers and the occasional call of a cuckoo made the walk very rewarding.
16th March 2009
Our March "away walk" was completed by 12 members under sunny skies on Monday 16th.
From our starting point at Drakeholes canal basin, we walked along the towpath in a westerly direction to Gringly Lock, were the once derelict keepers cottage has now been renovated to become a very desirable property.
At this point we left the canal to climb up to Gringley on the Hill, crossing the busy road to gain access to a series of field paths. Following a refreshment break at the side of a pretty coppice with a covering of violets, we continued along a recently waymarked path to emerge at Clayworth Church.
Passing through Clayworth, we regained access to the towpath which was our route back to our starting point, deviating only to stroll around Wiseton Village.
8th March 2009
On the 8th, 14 members set off for a 6 mile linear ramble which commenced at Dinnington Bus Station and returned to Todwick via Greenlands Park, North Anston, and the Chesterfield Canal.
The day was to be a walk of 2 halves. Initially the weather at the start of the ramble was most enjoyable with clear blue skies and warm sunshine. However, during our mid morning coffee stop the weather suddenly turned wet and windy with leaden skies, which unfortunately stayed with us as we made our way over muddy field paths back to Todwick.
17th February 2009
Tuesday 17th February presented itself as the harbinger of early spring with sunny skies and a warm breeze. It coincided with a walk and pub lunch outing that revolved around the Sitwell Arms at Whiston.
The easy walk conditions on the 5 mile circular ramble were a welcome relief from the winter scenarios we have had to contend with over the past few months and an excellent lunch taken with convivial company completed the day.
The members present thanked Jim and Janet for all their time and efforts in organizing this most enjoyable day's event.
8th February 2009
A bright but frosty Sunday morning on the 8th February saw 12 of our members on the bus for the short journey to Mansfield Road. As we passed Wasteneys Road it was noted that our club Secretary was still making his way to the bus stop and had hence missed the bus.
From Mansfield road we made our way down Deleves Lane to enter Rother Valley Country Park taking in the splendid view over the snow covered park and frozen lakes.
We then proceeded along the side of the river, around Nethermoor lake and on to our coffee stop in the bright sunshine over looking Meadowgate wildlife lake, where the various ducks and swans were seen to be sat on the ice rather than swimming in the water.
We then followed a short section of the Cuckoo Way before striking up hill to emerge on Church Lane Wales. Field paths from Storth Lane were then we used to return to Todwick.
19th January 2009
Elsecar Heritage Centre provided the meeting point for a 6 mile circular ramble. The route included the villages of Harley and Wentworth, and generally the conditions underfoot were good. However, the heavy rain fall of the previous night had reduced one or two field paths into glutinous muddy tracts, which turned our 12 strong group into mudlarks by the end of the walk.
11th January 2009
Fourteen members turned out for a local ramble that commenced at South Anston. The route initially followed the Chesterfield Canal to Turner Wood. Here changes in direction eventually lead us up to Moses Seat for a coffee stop. Our route back to Todwick was by way of Anston Grange Farm, Harry Croft Quarries, and Axle lane.
1st January 2009
New Year's Day presented itself with a low cloud base, hazy fog, and below freezing temperatures. Despite these conditions 17 ramblers wrapped themselves up and let in the New Year with a 6 1/4 mile circular ramble that encompassed Anston Stones Wood and its associated footpath network.
The frosty conditions proved conducive to walking, with puddles frozen over and path surfaces hard and dry. As the day wore on the clouds and haze lifted giving an enjoyable finish to the Club's first ramble in 2009.
December 2008
The Club's pre Christmas ramble started from North Anston and followed bridleways to Swinston Hill and Dewidales Woods, eventually arriving at a junction with the A57. Anston Stones Wood was our next destination and the location for a seasonally flavoured coffee stop. Our return to Todwick was by way of South Anston and Axle Lane, completing a pleasant day out that was a precursor to the Christmas holiday.
9th November 2008
On Sunday 9th November 9 members took a chance on the weather forecast and commenced a 6 mile ramble from Kiveton Bridge.
The route included Walseker Lane, now limited to bridleway usage only.
After passing through Woodhall we followed the muddy path to Nor Wood resplendent in its autumn colours and highlighted by the morning sunshine.
Our return back to Todwick by some more muddy paths was timed just in time to miss the rain as it clouded the horizon.
27th October 2008
Monday 27th October found 13 of our members assembled at Linacre Reservoir for our latest week day "away walk" on the north west side of Chesterfield.
Following a stroll along the north side of the 3 reservoirs we continued along the Linacre Valley before crossing the river to head up hill on a muddy path through Copy wood, with a pause to take in the view over Chesterfield with the Crooked Spire in the distance, to emerge on the Old Brampton road at the now closed Hollins Chapel.
Following a short walk down the road we then returned over field paths to arrive at a view point over Linacre Reservoirs for our lunch stop.
Our route back to the car park was through the delightful woods on the south side of Linacre.
12th October 2008
A perfect sunny morning on Sunday 12 October 2008 was the date for our October local walk.
17 members enjoyed a walk via South Anston down to and along the canal to Thorpe bottom locks for our coffee break.
We then retraced our steps to go through Spring Wood up to Thorpe Salvin before returning to Todwick through Kiveton Park station.
29th September 2008
On the bright but autumnal morning of Monday, 29 September 2008, 7 members met at Baslow for our latest "away walk".
Our walk commenced with a climb through Chatsworth Park up to the 16th-century Hunting Tower which afforded spectacular views of the House, parkland and the village of Edensor in the background.
We then proceeded along the top of the ridge through Stand woods to emerge on to Beeley Moor for our picnic lunch.
Following a descent of the moor we arrived at the pretty village of Beeley, where we noted the almost obligatory Derbyshire village facilities of 1 Church, 1 pub and 1 cafe, but sadly no longer a Post Office or village shop.
Our return to Baslow was along the banks of the Derwent River with a rest stop in the warm afternoon sun on the steps of Queen Mary's Bower.
14th September 2008
On Sunday September 14th the Club organised a short 3.5 mile circular walk from Todwick, to encourage local residents to explore the footpath network around the village.
An excellent turnout, complimented by fine weather ensured a good day was had by all and provided a basis for similar rambles in the near future.
18th August 2008
August 18th saw The Club commence a 7 mile circular ramble under leaden skies and light rain, which stayed with us as we followed the bank-side path of the River Derwent to Hathersage.
On entering Hathersage the weather suddenly cleared and the dress code of our 13 strong group quickly transformed to summer wear.
The ramble continued with a visit to Hathersage Church, followed by a strenuous climb to Booths Edge where views of the Hope Valley and beyond were enjoyed. A gradual descent back to Grindleford via Greenwood Farm completed the day.
10th August 2008
On Sunday August 10th our well attended local ramble commenced with a bus ride to Aughton, from where we headed off using meadowland footpaths to Ulley village. On leaving Ulley the farming landscape changed as we headed towards Aston through a variety of ripening crops and rampant vegetation. Leaving Aston our route continued passing Fiddleneck pond, Nickerwood Farm and over the M1 motorway. The last leg back towards Todwick was by way of Upper Common Farm and Goosecarr Lane.
July 2008
The Club's July 'Away Ramble' started from Langsett in good sunny conditions. It was a 7 mile circular route providing a variety of landscapes which included views of the reservoir, open moor, and traditional stone walled fields. The ramble passed through the hamlet of Midhopestones, and the opportunity was taken to explore its tiny ancient church, before returning to Langsett, via an old mineral line.
8th June 2008
On Sunday 8th June eight members plus two new members set off from the Village Hall for a 6½ mile circular walk. The day was extremely warm with clear blue skies. We made our way through Vessey Close Farm, Brampton Common and Hardwick Hall Farm before returning to Todwick. The field crops looking very healthy, with the trees in full leaf made for delightful scenery.
Our next walk on Monday 23rd June will be of 6 mile around Blyth, Hodsock and Old Carlton Village. Meet at Hodsock Priory at 9.30 AM.
26th May 2008
On bank holiday Monday the 26th May ten members meet at a very windy but dry Hardwick Hall for a 6 mile walk. From the car park adjacent to the Hall we passed the old hall and made our way through the park to Millers Pond. After a short climb we left Hardwick Park and made our way through Ault Hunknall before proceeding along field paths to the pretty village of Rawthorne. We then followed the Rawthorne Trail to arrive back at our start point via Lady Spencer's wood.
11th May 2008
The Club's local ramble on the 11th May had the benefit of a sunny spring day, which highlighted the picturesque qualities of the 6 mile route. This included the Chesterfield Canal and countryside around Anston Grange Farm, before returning through South Anston back to Todwick.
28th April 2008
On April 28th 12 Club members met outside the Clumber Cricket ground for a 6 mile circular ramble through Clumber Park. The route crossed Clumber Bridge to take a woodland track as far as the Normanton Gates. Here the terrain changed to an arable landscape with a well defined footpath taking us down to Hardwick village, and a bright and breezy lunch stop. The ramble was completed by a meander through Hardwick Wood before returning to the Cricket ground via the Information centre.
13th April 2008
Our local April ramble on Sunday 13th started from South Anston and included a visit to Hawke wood and Old Spring wood. Both woodlands were a delight to the eye with cowslips and wood sorrel mingling with a carpet of wild garlic. Swathes of bluebells in Old Spring wood welcomed in our delayed springtime. We returned to Todwick via the tow path of the Chesterfield canal and the Kiveton Park footpath network.
17th March 2008
Hardwick Hall was the destination on 17th March for fourteen club members who enjoyed a 7 mile circular ramble through the surrounding pastoral countryside of the Hardwick estate along with a visit to Taversal village.
9th March 2008
On Sunday March 9th ten ramblers journeyed to Laughton to walk a 6 mile countryside route back to Todwick, via Brampton en le Morthen.
The cool but sunny weather allowed excellent early views over Sheffield and Rotherham. This provided a complete contrast to our 19th February walk where the route had been shrouded in thick mist, giving a countryside scenario coloured white with hoar frost.
New countryside furniture was evident between Laughton and Brampton. Unfortunately, a number of recently installed high-rise stiles had not been constructed to facilitate easy boundary cross-overs for our petite lady members.
13th January 2008
On Sunday January 13th twelve club members decided to ignore the negative weather forecast and set out on a circular ramble led by Terry Calladine that included North Anston, Dewidales Wood, and Anston Stones Wood. In the event the prevailing weather gave good walking conditions with a drying breeze, high cloud, and a total absence of rain thus contributing to a very pleasant 4 hour ramble.
The club's next walk will be on Sunday 10th February 2008 led by Terry Calladine. Approx. distance 6 miles. Final details of the route will be posted on the Village Hall notice board and Todwick Post Office.
In addition, on Tuesday 19th February we are having a pub lunch at the Duke of Leeds Arms in Wales which will be preceded by a circular walk from Wales Church commencing at 10.00hrs. For further details contact Jim Tompkin. 01909 770700