The Roaches and Lud’s Church (14th October)

Saturday 14th October, with Harry.

 Lovely sunrise, swallowed rapidly by mist, which then flowed pink from time to time - all in half an hour or so. Temperature rather colder. 

The weather brightened rapidly, so we got ourselves organised and on the road. 

Great walk from Upper Hulme Paddock Farm Tea room (park in lay-by opposite) We arrived just after 9. and and were walking at 9.16.

Over the Roaches via path from the road, below Hen Cloud. 

We reached the trig point just after 10 am.

A convenient bench was a good place to stop for coffee at Roach End. 

then along the ridge following signs to  Swythamley.

Later we turned down into Back Forest to Lud’s Church.  

. 

We followed the path back to Roach End again,

and decided to walk along the ridge once more, rather than take the road.

We paused for lunch with a view.  Soon afterwards came a few drops of rain and a rainbow,

Not long after we reached low ground there was a mighty hailstorm.

Somewhere between 8 and 9 miles,with around 1200 feet of climbing. Great combo walk. We decided to head ‘home’ rather than to the Tea room, as we were soaking. 

 

It has hailed again since we got back, so I’ve rinsed out my soaking socks, and stuffed my boots with old newspapers. Tomorrow we head for ‘home home’. Reluctantly. 

Tittesworth Reservoir to Ramshaw Rocks

 Saturday 7th October 2023

With Harry. Something over 6 miles, with about 750 feet of climbing, and a few muddy patches. Stunning weather, stunning views. 

We set off just after 11am, parking at Tittesworth Reservoir.  We joined the Churnet Way, turning right along the road and walked past Middle Hulme Farm. 

There was a great view of Hen Cloud and Ramshaw Rocks.

In spite of signs we managed to create a small diversion before reaching Upper Hulme.

Time for a quick coffee before tackling a steep section

And we missed the slightly hidden turning from the surfaced road to the narrow footpath along the diminutive Churnet…and climbed a few extra feet, but were soon back on track. This section was quite wet and slippery in parts, but very pretty.

From then on we took more care and followed the route past the entrance to Naychirch Farm, and across moorland to the minor road near Ramshaw Rocks. We crossed this and made our way to the top, where we found a spot for lunch.

We made our way back via the same route, minus diversions. A more rugged six miler than the ones I normally do, and very enjoyable.

Looks impressive. ;-)