NEW fully revised and updated 2nd edition of 'The Inn Way... to the Peak District' now available (Sept 2012)
The footbridge across the River Ashop near Alport Bridge in the Woodlands Valley (SK 141 894) is missing/damaged and won't be replaced until at least Sept 2014. The bridleway across the adjacent ford (just downstream of the missing footbridge) is usually shallow and easy to cross; however, after heavy rain this ford may be impassable. If this is the case then use Rowlee Bridge just over 0.5 miles downstream, although to get to this bridge will mean walking along the fast and busy A57.
Long Stay parking is limited at Hayfield, so please use public transport. Hayfield is easily accessible using public transport with train stations at nearby Glossop or New Mills. Hotels, B&B's etc usually allow you to leave your car with them (if you stay with them at the start and end of your walk) – always 'phone to check.
Stage 5 (Tideswell to Castleton) - Cressbrook Dale / Wardlow Mires. The footpath now joins the A623 immediately before Brookside Farm in the village of Wardlow Mires (head of Cressbrook Dale), and is clearly marked on the ground - do not walk through the farmyard to join the A623.
Cressbrook Tunnel (between Monsal Head and Litton Mill) has recently been re-opened for walkers, and offers an alternative route to Litton Mill, although the best way is still through the beautiful valley of Water-cum-Jolly Dale.
All Overnight Stops have a selection of shops, B&Bs and pubs. There are bank cash-points along the route at Hathersage and Tideswell as well as Outdoor Shops at Hathersage and Castleton. When booking B&B, make sure you ask how far they are (walking distance!) from the 'Overnight Stop' town or village as many postal addresses include the nearest town, which may be several miles away!
If you are relying on a pub for lunchtime food, then always 'phone in advance to check opening times. Many rural pubs close at lunchtimes early in the week.
Closed pubs - the Bulls Head at Hayfield (Stage 1) has closed and the Derwent Hotel at Bamford (Stage 1) has been converted into self catering accommodation; there are 5 other pubs at Hayfield and 2 other pubs at Bamford. The Rutland Arms at Baslow (Stage 3) has closed (there are 3 other pubs at Baslow).
It is worth employing the services of a Baggage Courier to take your bags to the next Overnight Stop. This will take the strain out of your walk by allowing you to carry a day-rucksack rather than a fully-laden rucksack. You will then be able to walk at a faster pace and won't be so tired in the evening.
Why not spend an extra night at Baslow for a 'rest day', from where you can catch a bus to either Chatsworth House or Bakewell.
