Whether you’re a keen hiker, weekend wanderer, or simply enjoy short social strolls, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in National Walking Month this May with friends and family across Derbyshire and the Peak District.
You can join one of the National Trust’s guided walks, or take your pick of the numerous trails and routes found across the region.
From peaks and moorland to lakeside strolls and historic parkland, there's plenty of space to escape the routine, connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. To find out more information, head to the National Trust website.
5. Calke Abbey
With 600 acres of ancient parkland to explore, the Calke estate offers numerous possibilities for outdoor adventures, whether it’s a gentle stroll or a full day’s hike. Encompassing National Nature Reserves, ancient oaks including the ‘Old Man of Calke’, deer park and secluded ponds, as well as the 10km Tramway Trail, visitors are spoilt for choice. Don’t forget to take a walk to the gardens to admire the wisteria cascading in a wall of lilac blooms and filling the air with its sweet perfume. For those who haven’t been before or want a more in-depth exploration of the historic landscape, free park guided walks run every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from the Ticket Office at 11am and 2pm (volunteer dependent). Find out more here: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/peak-district-derbyshire/calke-abbey Photo: cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Alan Murray-Rust - geograph.org.uk/p/5860693
6. Kedleston Hall
Surrounded by sweeping countryside vistas and eight hundred acres of expansive grounds, Kedleston Hall offers a variety of walking opportunities to embrace the outdoors this May. Encompassing short, long, parkland and garden walks, you can experience magnificent views of Kedleston’s historic 18th century house and discover a blossoming springtime garden bursting into colour. For gentle garden strolls, uncover uninterrupted views of lamb-filled landscapes passing Renaissance inspired statues, a historic summer house and even a Grade II listed orangery. Whether opting for shorter or longer walks, discover sequoia lined woodland paths, cross a Robert Adam designed bridge, and enter a parkland scattered with delicate wildflowers such as cowslips and fritillaries. If you’re a keen bird watcher, there are plenty of chances to see an array of woodland and riverside birds such as buzzards and oyster catchers – all spotted on walks across Kedleston Hall’s parkland. Find out more about Kedleston Hall’s walks and garden here: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/peak-district-derbyshire/kedleston-hall/walking-in-the-park-at-kedleston Photo: Photo © David Dixon (cc-by-sa/2.0)
7. Staunton Harold
At this hidden gem you'll discover wildflower meadows, woodland habitat, industrial archaeology and nature reserves, along with spectacular views across open water. There are trails to suit all ages and abilities, and you can even walk to neighbouring Calke Abbey. Find out more here: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/peak-district-derbyshire/staunton-harold Photo: Photo © David Dixon (cc-by-sa/2.0)
8. Foremark
Nestled in the rolling Derbyshire countryside, Foremark is a 230-acre nature reserve, comprised of woodland habitat, heathland, open countryside and open water. Foremark is also home to Carver’s Rocks, an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest). Find out more here: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/peak-district-derbyshire/foremark Photo: Photo © Ian Calderwood (cc-by-sa/2.0)