The sun always shines when you're at work, then comes the weekend, the clouds roll in and the rain starts. So it was a nice surprise to be setting off down Hay Dale in glorious sunshine. There's nothing better than spring sunshine to bring out the gold of cowslips and the deep purple of violets and orchids. This is a walk to linger over for flower hunting cannot be hurried. We were almost back at the car when the first few drops of rain fell. Still, it was a Saturday; it's traditional!
LOCATION: Four miles south-east of Chapel-en-le-Frith
START: Turn right off A623 in Peak Forest. Keep straight on at bend, towards Wormhill & Wheston, and park in half mile near the Smalldale junction.
Grid ref: SK113774 Postcode: SK178ED
DISTANCE: 5.5 miles
GRADE: Moderate
TIME: 3 hours
MAP: Explorer OL - White Peak Landranger 119
REFRESHMENTS: Pack a flask
EN ROUTE: Pennine Bridleway, Monk's Dale, Dam Dale, Wheston
This walk was originally published by
The Manchester Evening News