National park rangers will lead walks across the Peak District
National park rangers are offering the public the chance to walk with them to discover aircraft wrecks on the Peak District’s highest hill.
The Kinder Scout event is among a series organised by the national park authority, which also includes walks up Cheshire’s ‘Matterhorn’ and a search for hidden ‘letterboxes’.
Many of the walks are suitable for families with children as well as more challenging routes for keen hillwalkers.
Ranger Andy Farmer said: “We have organised a varied programme of guided walks to appeal to people for a variety of reasons – if you are new to the area, or want to visit somewhere different, or you need fresh air and exercise, or you want to find out more about your neighbourhood, there’s something for everyone.
“Our national park rangers have a wealth of knowledge about ‘their patch’ and are always keen to share their stories and encourage people to enjoy the countryside.”
The programme starts next weekend with a walk around the woodlands of the Dane Valley exploring the local history of Wincle Parish.
This is followed by Let’s Look for Letterboxes, an exploration of the moors of Kinder Scout above Edale to seek out hidden ‘letterboxes’. Letterboxing, the forerunner of the modern pastime of geocaching, began in 1854.
Walks up Shutlingsloe and Kinder Scout will follow in November.
People need to book on the walks by phoning 01629 816270. There is a charge of £3 per person and on some walks family tickets are available. The money is used to help maintain paths and trails in the Peak District national park.
More details are on the Peak District National Park Authority’s website.
Graham White
11 October 2015As leader of the 'Let's Look for Letterboxes' walk I can confirm the walk is FREE.
Anyone wishing to attend should ideally book with the office, arrive at the Moorland Centre, Edale 10.30am on Sunday 18th October, suitably dressed for a hike across open moors. If at the end of the walk you have enjoyed yourself you can make a donation based on what you can afford.
Volunteer Rangers based thoughout the National park have been proud to provide FREE Guided Walks for the 60 years the Park has been in existence. These walks have been devised and lead by volunteers, they cover a wide range of subjects and include three levels of Navigation training.
Unfortunate the Nation Park Autority have deemed it necessary to charge for these walks starting next year, much against the advice and wishes of the Volunteer Rangers. As a consequence many of these walks will not take place.