As it is easier to access we started the walk from The Wharf at the end of Cromford Canal. If I didn't know better I'd think those ducks were asking where Thomas was with their breakfast.

We made quick progress and soon found ourselves at the bridge.

As we walked along the canal we were able to enjoy some great reflections in the water.

High Peak Junction was very busy, so it is just as well the bridge, which only a few months ago was being repaired, is back in place.

It seemed very strange to head down this side of the canal, as these days this side is usually done in the opposite direction.

We'd deliberately stayed on this side in the hope of catching the reflections of The Wharf Shed in the water.

For much of this section of the canal we were being blinded by the sun, which certainly makes a change.

A look back to Leawood Pump House just before the canal passes over the River Derwent.

Over the last 18 months we have watched the improvements to the cottage progress. Most of the work is now being done outside and a recent trip saw the new steps behind the cottage into the wood being a great source of entertainment for Thomas. A hillwalker in the making!

Continuing along the canal we start to get a view of Crich Stand high above us.

Once we have passed Aqueduct Cottage the number of people declines, which is a shame as they are missing out on seeing some great reflections.

More reflections as we approach the point where we will be leaving the canal path.

Having crossed the A6 we take the track into Birch Wood and I quickly start to regret leaving my gaiters at home.

A short climb takes us to the top of the wood, where we hope to find a suitable spot to stop.

At the top of the hill we spot a convenient log and sit enjoying a mince pie stop whilst looking through the tress in the direction of the Derwent Valley.

Mince pies consumed it is time to make our way along the top of the wood.

As we walk through the wood the sun lights up the bare trunks and branches.

The track leads onto a tarmac lane, which we follow as far as the campsite and then head downhill.

We briefly join the High Peak Trail, which is full of families out enjoying the sunshine.

After a few minutes we turn off the High Peak Trail and join Intake Lane as it passes beneath the High Peak Trail.

We follow Intake Lane, which becomes a tarmac track and then a road into a small housing estate.

The residents at the top of the road enjoy a great view along the Derwent Valley, here looking towards High Tor.

In the opposite direction they enjoy a view across the valley to Coumbs Wood. All that remains now is for us to drop down to the A6 and follow the road back to the Wharf.

 

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