High Wheeldon

First proper day of our holiday, and the sun was shining. We started with a leisurely breakfast, then I had cards and gifts to open, as it’s my birthday.

We then set off for a walk, straight from our front door. It started off so well, up a wee hill over the road, Hitter Hill. From the top we had an amazing view of two hills, which TT has planned for tomorrow (extra 2). Today we continued round the hill, descending to a farm and following the track round to our destination-High Wheeldon (extra 3). We passed a group of ramblers, who were singing, the hills are alive…, then a group of youngsters (probably a DoE group), and both went in the opposite direction to us.

The hill was not high, but what it lacked in height, it more than made up for in steepness! We crossed a stile, and just had to head straight up.  One slip and I would have tumbled all the way back to the bottom, as there was nothing to stop me, apart from a few thistles. TT was striding on ahead. I just kept going steadily, and didn’t look down too often, as it did nothing for my vertigo. I was so glad to get to the top, but was not looking forward to the descent. The views were amazing, and this picture really doesn’t do them justice.

Thankfully there was an easier descent on the other side, which I later read was an alternative ascent route in our walk book. TT didn’t provide me with any options! Once down, we just carried on along the road, back to our village. All in all it was a good wee walk, but I wouldn’t recommend our ascent route.

We then decided to go and have a wander around Buxton, as it was such a lovely day. We stopped off at a bookstore and cafe which was on our way, for some lunch. It didn’t bode well as they were short staffed, with a reduced menu. Regardless off this the food was delicious, and we both really enjoyed our lunches. While looking around, we overheard a conversation about the road into Buxton being closed due to a carnival, parade, festival. We decided to go and do another walk elsewhere, only to discover that the road to our new destination was also closed, we think due to an accident. We then ended up in Bakewell, which was very busy. We found a walk in our book, and set off. The beginning didn’t fill us with much hope, but we soon left Bakewell behind, walking near the river, before an ascent into woodland, and then a circular route back to Bakewell. Once we were in the woodland, we were grateful of the shade, given the heat of the day (extra 1).  Our circular route took us back to Bakewell.

We then risked a supermarket visit in Buxton, before heading to the fish and chip shop in a nearby village.

We enjoyed our fish and chips back at our holiday cottage. Later there was cake, and I finished my book. We were both weary after our walks in the heat.  Meanwhile back at home, BB was playing in a rugby 7s tournament. I think there was to be much socialising afterwards. I hope he made it home!

This is a view from the top of High Wheeldon.