Beneath Gradbach Hill, where Black Brook joins the River Dane, lies a spot to avoid at dusk if you're of a nervous disposition, for it was here the local inhabitants once offered hospitality to lonely travellers. Then, after stealing their gold, they murdered them and cremated the bodies in the oven. Luckily for solitary walkers the cottage is now ruined, but as you stroll down through the oak trees keep a look out for the gold - it can still be found!
LOCATION: Seven miles south-west of Buxton
START: Leave A54 at the bend by the Rose & Crown, then after two miles turn sharp right to Gradbach car park
Grid ref: SJ999663 Postcode: SK170SU
DISTANCE: 4 miles
GRADE: Moderate
TIME: 2.5 hours
MAP: Explorer OL - White Peak Landranger 118
REFRESHMENTS: Pack a flask
EN ROUTE: Yawning Stone
This walk was originally published by
The Manchester Evening News