Brackenfield To Ashover 8.5 Mile Circular

by Jock Munro
3 years ago
Near North East Derbyshire, GB

43 views

This route is a mix of beautiful Derbyshire farmland, quiet back country lanes, wood walks, footpaths and bridleways.

Starting in the small village of Brackenfield, the route heads generally northwest along tracks and footpaths through farmland. There is a quite steep section up through woods towards Clattercotes Wood ridge before it levels out to join the B6014. A steepish climb along approximately .5 mile of country lane before once again climbing up through fields towards the west ridge of the Amber valley.

The effort spent climbing is rewarded with stunning views over the surrounding countryside which drop in and out as you walk along the ridge. The path here passes through a wonderful woodland area for a mile or so as it decends towards Ashover. After passing an old quarry and onto a bridleway the route takes us down a gentle slope towards Ashover, first crossing an old bridge over the river Amber, then a steepish climb into Ashover itself, emerging conveniently next to the Old Poet's Corner pub.

After some refreshment we take a gentle climb along footpaths through agricultural land, passing through farm premises towards Littlemoor before turning south through woods to emerge onto quiet country lanes. Following lanes and paths we cross over the river Amber again and follow the gentle fall of the valley towards the B6014, with views of Ogston reservoir at various points until we start to climb away again heading south west near Woolley.

A walk through farmyard, fields and woodland again before taking a gentle route back into Brackenfield village.

Lots to see on this walk. Sounds and smells of the countryside in spring. Quite difficult under foot in bits and a few steep climbs. Suitable for dogs but there is a lot of farmland and livestock, particularly in spring/summer so they must be kept on a lead.