Sunday 2nd March 2025 – Castleton Circular
Arriving at Castleton on a bright but chilly morning, 24 ramblers got ready for a nine-mile stroll around some beautiful countryside. Five of our party decided they would rather shop and enjoy some coffee, so the remaining 19 set off towards a disused old mine. This gentle climb was made more challenging by some rather slippery conditions underfoot. Having reached the top of this first climb with no falls, we were rather pleased—but this moment of triumph didn’t last long. On the next gentle ascent, one of our group slipped down. Fortunately, there were no injuries, just a muddy bottom.
At this point, we stopped for a tea break while admiring the spectacular views. Onwards to our next tricky ascent through a rather muddy path—no falls here. At a footpath junction, we opted for a much safer route using a tarmac footpath rather than a very boggy track.
Heading back into Castleton, we stopped in a park for lunch in the lovely sunshine. Feeling replete, we ventured on to the second half of the walk. Heading out of the village, we took a back lane by the river, having to negotiate several stiles as we crossed fields of sheep (no lambs, unfortunately). Onwards to a higher path and through several gates, all of which meant navigating deep muddy puddles. Once again, there was only one faller—no injuries, just another muddy bottom.
Finally, leaving the mud behind, we headed down the road into Hope, where we stopped for a well-earned drink. On leaving Hope, we travelled uphill once more to walk a higher, drier path heading back into Castleton. There were no incidents on the return journey. Arriving back at 3 o’clock, we had time for an ice cream and to explore the village before boarding the coach for home.
