Lathkill & Bradford Dales (short version)

(S)Roadside parking is available on Back Lane at grid ref. SK192644 or the small car park a short distance away at SK194644. Having parked, walk east along Back Lane towards Conksbury. Take the first signed footpath on the left (grid ref. SK197647) and follow this across field to Meadow Place Grange. Continue through the buildings and take the path heading northeast towards Lathkill Dale. The path descends the side of the Dale, turning sharp left before you reach the bridge over the River Lathkill.

(1)Cross the bridge below Over Haddon (grid ref. SK202661) and turn right down the Dale with the River Lathkill on your right. Conksbury Bridge (grid ref SK211656) is the next landmark. Here you cross the bridge using the road and walk a short way along the lane before taking the first footpath on your left. This leads you through walled fields down to the main road at Alport (grid ref. SK220645). Cross the road and take the signed footpath opposite. This leads you up Bradford Dale with the River Bradford on your right. Continue alongside the River to reach Mawstone Lane (grid ref SK213639).

(2)Cross the river here and take the path on your left. You are now back on the Limestone Way. The river is now on your left and is followed upstream with the village of Youlgreave high above you on your right. At the next footbridge (grid ref. SK208640) you can reach the village centre by following the lane on your right uphill. To continue, cross the River Bradford here and follow the dale upstream with the river once again on your right.

(3)At grid ref. SK199636, the Limestone Way turns right across the River Bradford. Once across ignore the minor path on your right taking the wider path as it climbs uphill to reach a road (grid ref. SK197637). Turn right along the road and follow the pavement past Lomberdale Hall on your left. Shortly after, there is a signed footpath on the other side of the road on your left. Take this uphill to reach another lane (grid ref. SK198641). Ignore the footpath opposite; instead turn left along the road for a short distance to take the Limestone Way signed on your right. This climbs out of the Dale and you are soon back at either the car park or roadside parking. If you are lucky the ice-cream man may be waiting for you to return!(E)

This varied walk includes the lower section of Lathkill Dale, provides a chance to visit the village of Youlgreave and includes a section of Bradford Dale. Walking is generally easy and the route is mostly well signed. Opportunities for refreshment are limited and a visit to Youlgreave is necessary to quench your thirst.

You can start the walk counter-clockwise as opposed to clockwise if you wish, that way one isn't finishing the walk with a steep haul up from the river to the start/end point.

Two good swim spots on both rivers ( if the Water level is good).
Excellent veggie cafe in Youlgreave half way round.