The Peak District - a wide circuit around Ilam, A walk (BOOKING ESSENTIAL)

A WALK DESCRIPTION: 11.5 miles, about 1020 ft total ascent. From the start at Swinscoe, we head northwest through typical Peak District rolling pasture farmland, eventually passing just south of the high point, Musden Low. After a short section along quiet lanes, we turn onto a footpath that winds down through Musden Wood, to reach Rushley and the River Manifold. We follow the river through Ilam Country Park, having a picnic lunch in the grounds of Ilam Hall. After lunch we continue through Ilam village, then take a footpath along the right bank of the river, crossing at Coldwall Bridge to the left bank of what is now the river Dove. Reaching Mapleton, if time permits, we will visit the Okeover Arms for refreshments, before climbing through the parkland of Okeover Hall, passing Martin Hill and Woodhouses as we return to the coach at Swinscoe.