Having left the car park at the Wharf as I expected it was difficult to get any photos of the canal due to the height of the vegetation next to it. My first photo opportunity came as we approached the bridge over the canal, these days usually the scene of much stamping of feet and shouting to hear the echoes. As I'm not with my grandchildren today I walk under it quietly.

The dinosaur has had a bit of a clean since she last appeared on the website and she also has a new owner. The land she lives on has been purchased by Peak UK, who having permission to develop the site into a centre for kayaking. When I heard the land had changed hands I did contact them about the dinosaur, and they told me the dinosaur is staying.

There were some lovely reflections in the canal.

When I reached High Peak Junction I opted to cross the bridge and walk along the other side of the canal.

I had hoped I might get some better shots of the canal
from this side as there is less vegetation on the banks.

Looking across to Leawood Pump House.

The development at Aqueduct Cottage continues. Whilst I was there I could see several people working on the gardens and grounds close to the cottage.

Crich Stand comes into view but at this time of year the trees obscure the view of it for most of the time.

The further away from High Peak Junction I get the quieter the path along the canal gets.

Having reached Gregory Tunnel I have to decide if I'm going to take advantage of the bench there and have my lunch or carry on and get the first ascent out of the way.

I opt for the later and take the track towards Homesford.

Crossing the River Derwent before I reach the road at Homesford.

At Homesford I don't make the same mistake as the last time I was here and I'm soon heading uphill through Birch Wood.

The ascent isn't as bad as I recalled although that might have been
helped by the ground being so dry. Normally when I do this
walk this section is a bit of a mud bath.

Having reached the top I start looking out for a suitable spot to sit and eat my lunch.

For once I remember to continue passed the entrance to the campsite and take the path heading downhill at the point where the footpath sign directs you into the campsite.

Since leaving the canal's towpath I haven't seen anyone until I meet a lone dogwalker on this section.

Having joined the High Peak Trail it is very tempting to head downhill back to High Peak Junction.

My planned route however is uphill.

My lack of walking soon showed and it took a fair few pauses along the way to get me to the point where I turned off the trail to head to Intake Lane.

Intake Lane would take me under the High Peak Trail.

Leaving the woods behind me I can soon look across the valley and can't but help notice that the trees are starting to show signs that Autumn is upon us.

Back at Cromford Wharf school is now out and someone is sailing their boat on the canal and elsewhere some children look like they are getting ready to enjoy a paddle along the canal.

 

<<Back to top>>

All pictures copyright © Peak Walker 2006-2025