Adventure Walk: Industrial past and present around Bonsall and Middleton
Date: Saturday 7th September
Meet at 9.15 for 9.30am start at Bonsall car park, Clatterway, DE4 2AD
Distance: 7.5 – 8 miles, 4 hours
The walk: Footpaths, farm tracks and quiet lanes without pavement. Some areas prone to mud and uneven walking.
The walk leaves Bonsall going down but going up towards Middleton and Middleton Moor. We will pass the windturbines of Ryder Point and walk via Griffe Grange to Ible, where we start following the Limestone Way on our return to Bonsall.
Lead has been mined in the limestone areas of the Peak District since at least Roman times. Also the quarrying of the high quality limestone started in that period. Bonsall Moor, is rich in old mine workings while around Middleton the limestone quarries are still in production. An attractive, historic former lead-mining village set in steep-sided limestone dales, Bonsall has a charming atmosphere all of it’s own. The surrounding area, especially Bonsall Moor, is rich in old mine workings, reflecting the importance of lead to the area.
Middleton’s lead mining industry can be traced as far back as the Bronze Age but quarrying became the village’s main industry. Quarrying of the area’s high quality limestone began in Roman times, but was only carried out intensively from the end of the 19th century – conveniently coinciding with the end of lead mining.The stone could take a high polish and could be quarried in very large blocks. Furthermore, it could be cut very easily and, because of its fine, marble-like qualities, has always been in great demand from sculptors, including Henry Moore.
Stiles: 10+
Gradients: Lowest 410ft, Highest 1160ft, Total ascent 1370ft
Please bring water & snacks, also waterproofs & layers.
Lunch: the Fountain Tearooms Bonsall, menu
Price: £13
Booking essential: A Valid Registered Nordic Walking UK Freedom Card is required to book this Activity. Refund Policy: Please note as this is an Adventure Walk, cancellations can only be made prior to 12hrs with a refund. After this time no refund is given due to the planning time involved for these walks. If you need to cancel last minute please contact me (Janneke 07469895267) asap.
