MARCH CHURCH WALK
After meeting at Cromford Meadows, we walked through Cromford Village past Arkwright’s original cottages built for his mill workers. Passing the Mill Pond we ascended to Black Rock picnic site.
Once at the top there was a panoramic view over Matlock Bath; we could see Masson Mill and Arkwright’s Mill, all built next to the river Derwent to power the mill machinery. Also on view was Willersley Castle which was built for Sir Richard Arkwright, and Riber Castle built by another industrialist, John Smedley, whose wealth was also created from textiles.
Across the valley we could see an active quarry still being worked, but down from Black Rocks there was ample evidence of numerous limestone quarries which had been worked by the Victorians.
We walked back down the steep, disused haulage road, which had been used to transport limestone down to Cromford Canal to be taken away by the waiting boats.
It was a Spring-like day, so we stopped for an ice cream at the shop in the Cromford Canal basin. We had to wait as the foot bridge was swung back to allow a passenger-carrying canal boat to pass. As we waited, we were treated to a synchronised diving display by two Grebes as they foraged for food.
It was good to see that the canal was back in use for leisure activities, thanks to the efforts of many volunteers. Once we crossed the canal we were able to catch up with the boat as it moved at such a sedate and leisurely pace. We ambled back alongside the canal and back to where we started. An enjoyable walk with good views and a glimpse of the Industrial Past.
Eric
The next walk on Sunday 3rd April will be of 5 miles and led by Julie and Mary. The destination will be announced when we gather at the church gates at 12 noon. Any new members will be most welcome to join us.