Date: Friday 2nd March 2007 a.m.
Weather: Fine Spring like morning – mild
Walkers: Audrey, Celia, Harry and Margret
Parking: At Calton Lees car park. The payment kiosk erected last year by the Chatsworth Estate has disappeared although it was still there in early 2007.
The Walk:
Proceed along the road past the entrance to Chatsworth Garden Centre. This takes you past the distribution centre for the farm shop etc. and a number of very desirable estate properties. It climbs steadily upwards past a track to the left (which goes to Beeley) and lots of mole activity on the hillside to the right.The track turns at right angles as it approaches Calton Houses and the charm of the Chatsworth Estate is revealed as you look back down the valley. The track swings left through a gateway past derelict barns on the right. These are cordoned off with Chatsworth blue signs indicating that they are to be restored. There has been no activity on this front so far – perhaps they haven't made enough from car parking fees.
Not far past the last cottage the track terminates at a stile and on the other side you take the path to the right which continues to climb until it comes to a flat field. Take the path across this field to New Piece Wood taking note of a house known as Russian Cottage which is down a track to the right at the edge of the wood. Pass through the gate and walk through the wood. There are steps over the high wall at the other side but there is nothing to stop you going through the gate if you are not feeling energetic! You are now treated to splendid views over the park towards Chatswoth house. There are some strategically placed seats here so it is a good spot for refreshments. (On this occasion we decided to walk on for a bit). Strike out down the hillside towards Edensor village Church clearly visible in the distance. (We had our fruit and nut stop at the remains of a fallen tree trunk next to a copse further down the hillside. This is a place where we have encountered deer in the past. The muddiest terrain was encountered here.) Proceed toward the road which runs through Chatsworth keeping the church on your left. Cross the road and head in the direction of the river. Take a course to the right parallel with the river to bring you back to the Calton Lees car park.
Comments: If you have more time it is interesting to go into Edensor village which you approach keeping the church on your right.The path will lead through a stile into a flagged path and steps which take you down to the main village street. Turn right to walk through the village to the road noting the rich variety of Italianate styles used in the construction of this village. On leaving Edensor by the main gate cross the road and take the path to your right which will take you to the bridge across the river by the main house. Cross the road before you get to the bridge and follow the riverside path back to Calton Lees, striking up towards the road before you get to the car park entrance.
Hostelry: Rowleys – Bistro pub with excellent food and Gold Card discount! Celia. Back to Walks Page