The weather wasn’t particularly kind while we were staying in the Peak District, but I did manage to get out for another, longish walk, starting in Ashbourne and finishing at our cottage in Alstonefield. Although “The Dales” is generally taken to mean the Yorkshire Dales, there are far more Dales in the Peak District. This walk alone took in Lin Dale, Dove Dale and Hall Dale.

As I approached Mapleton (pronounced as in M’apple’ton btw), I met up with 2 gentleman and a dog, who were also walking to Ilam. I forget their names now (and my apologies to them if they are now reading this), but we had a very nice chat as we strolled along.

After bidding them farewell, (as they went for a cuppa in the café at Ilam Hall), I turned east to take in a small hill, called Thorpe Cloud (@287m or 942ft). On a fine day, I’m sure the views are wonderful. From there, I descended into Lin Dale before heading north along Dove Dale and up Hall Dale to the Watts-Russell Arms (for a more interesting refreshment. 😊)

13 responses

  1. Hanna Avatar

    I could do with a walk like that!
    Wonderful nature, Mike 🍂🍁🍃

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Alittlebitoutoffocus Avatar

      Thank you Hanna. It certainly looks different to Switzerland!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Hanna Avatar

        The Alps are a little more dramatic 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

        1. Alittlebitoutoffocus Avatar

          Indeed. We’re back home now, but isolating, but I’ll be out walking as soon as I get the chance! 😊

          Like

        2. Hanna Avatar

          That sounds good. The English landscapes are wonderful. I hope to experience them soon. Maybe autumn 2021 🙄☺ One have to make plans. Things are going to change eventually 🤠

          Liked by 1 person

        3. Alittlebitoutoffocus Avatar

          Well, if you need any help or advice on where to go, just let me know. 😊

          Liked by 1 person

        4. Hanna Avatar

          Thanks!!! 😊

          Liked by 1 person

  2. Jet Eliot Avatar

    Wow, this was truly a delight, Mike, walking along with you through the dales, past the river. All the different kinds of stiles, the emerald color of the grass and the moody clouds, the town of Ilam, the limestone and butterflies. A breath of fresh air here, and a joy. Fun to see the rabbit and squirrel too.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Alittlebitoutoffocus Avatar

      Thank you Jet. It was a typically English countryside walk – very green as you say. And that was the only butterfly I managed to capture in 4 weeks! (They obviously don’t like damp weather!)

      Liked by 1 person

  3. bayphotosbydonna Avatar

    Great shots, Mike, the landscapes are beautiful! I like the Dipper sign too, great idea for parks and refuges to erect to educate!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Alittlebitoutoffocus Avatar

      Thanks Donna. I hope it captured a view of ‘Middle England’ on an autumn day. Many places put up information boards, but that sign was un-missable for sure!

      Liked by 1 person

  4. Sandra Avatar

    Such amazing views! The last shot, is that a mailbox? Thank you for sharing this most beautiful walk. Take good care Mike!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Alittlebitoutoffocus Avatar

      Thanks Sandra. Yes, that is a mailbox. They have them scattered around the country – mostly in the towns and cities of course. Though I’m not sure how much they are used these days.

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