Relics of Peak District’s past
WALK LEADER: PETER ATTWELL
EAST Cheshire Ramblers got a graphic reminder of a long-forgotten industry when they walked along Stanage Edge near Hathersage in the Peak District National Park recently.
For the base of the towering gritstone ridge, which stretches approximately 3.5m (6km) along the skyline at a height of between 400 and 450m, is strewn with millstones – relics of a once thriving local industry.
Leader Peter Attwell explained that the quarrying of rock for millstones began as far back as the 14th century and lasted until the mid-1800s, when they were replaced by stones imported from France which produced whiter flour.
Eight ECR walkers set off to walk some nine miles across the moors from Denis Knoll car park in beautiful autumn sunshine which reflected off the cliff face, displaying the faults used by rock climbers.
After ascending to the moor, they continued to where a landmark known as Stanage Pole once stood until it rotted away and eventually fell down. A replacement pole is awaited.
Descending to Redmires reservoir, its surface glistening like a mirror, the group reached a conduit where, due to a trick of light, water appeared to be flowing uphill.
The route back along the ridge was completed with striking views across to Lose Hill and the Great Ridge above Castleton. “All in all, the perfect end to a wonderful walk in a historic setting,” said Peter.
For further information go to ramblers eastcheshire.org.uk.