Country Walks in the Peak District with Jamie & Lisa

 Country Walks in the Peak District 

Walking shoes packed we were ready to explore the natural beauty that the Peaks have to offer. We set off for a scenic 3.5-mile walk around Lumsdale Valley and Lumsdale Falls. The trail felt like a mini safari — we spotted ducks, ducklings, horses, pigs, and goats.

We discovered a hollow tree (sadly, none of us could squeeze inside!) 

It was off to the Crich Tramway Village, home of the National Tram Museum. We explored cobbled streets lined with vintage shops, street signs, lamp posts, and phone boxes before hopping aboard our first tram ride of the day. We paid our fares with old pennies featuring past Kings and Queens! Ken, our guide, gave us a fascinating tour of the restored buildings and trams, some had even come from as far away as Germany. 

It was off for another exciting day. First stop: Masson Mills, built in 1783 by Sir Richard Arkwright. This hydro powered cotton mill offered a vivid glimpse into life during the Industrial Revolution. After clocking in with our own cards, we explored the museum and watched a live demonstration in the loom room. The shop featured many handmade items — perfect for souvenir hunting. 

We took a lovely riverside walk to Cromford Wharf, passing Arkwright’s castle along the way. We enjoyed an alfresco lunch beside the canal before boarding Birdswood, a beautifully restored barge for a relaxing cruise. We fed ducks and geese and listened to fascinating stories from the volunteers. 

The sun shone once again — ideal for our visit to The Heights of Abraham in Matlock Bath. Anticipation (and a few nerves!) built as we approached the iconic cable cars. But the short ride across the Derwent Valley offered breathtaking views that made it all worthwhile. At the top, staff in Victorian attire welcomed us and helped plan our visit. First up: a guided tour of the Great Masson Cavern. It was a spectacular underground adventure — though some chose to watch the video tour in comfort due to the steep steps and sound effects.

After our active days out we loved making a splash in the fabulous on site pool. 

A game of crazy golf was a highlight of our day. There were some challenging obstacles but this didn't stop our keen golfers! Everyone showed great sportsmanship and there were cheers when we got a hole in one! 

We ventured into the woods for a walk filled with beautiful views and quirky wooden sculptures, including a favourite: a giant Mr. Potato Head!

The weather couldn't have been better travelled to Derwent Water Reservoir for a steady but challenging 5-mile hike. Keeping with the VE Day theme, we reflected on wartime history — this site was where RAF 617 Squadron practised for the famous Dambusters raid in 1943. We visited the memorial, then tackled the ascent to the ridge, where we paused for a scenic alfresco lunch overlooking Derwent and Ladybower Reservoirs.