Transition Crich Walking Routes
A Quarry Wander
This route is approximately three miles, taking in country roads, fields, beautiful woodland and Dukes Quarry.
Starting Point: Begin your adventure at the The Cliff Inn, Crich, heading downhill towards Wakebridge.
This tranquil road is best navigated by staying to the side.
Keep an eye out for an old mile marker pointing to Cromford and a picturesque avenue of trees.
As you descend, you'll spot Crich Stand and the abandoned quarry to your right.
Continuing On: Pass the initial public footpath sign leading to Coddington Farm and proceed past a few charming cottages, where friendly goats might greet you from their pens.
Finding the Path: As you near a cluster of houses, look for a squeeze gate in the wall to your left, marked by a footpath sign. This can be tricky to spot in autumn, so proceed carefully. If you reach a left bend, you've gone too far. Enter through the gate, following the path across the field—note that this area can be quite wet in winter. The path weaves alongside a stream to your left.
Through Nature's Beauty: You'll stroll past trees and possibly glimpse a Badger Sett on your right. Continue until you cross a couple of stiles and a gate, heading towards a bridge. Notice the water pipe on your left, part of the local reservoir system.
Into the Woods: After crossing the bridge, enjoy the serene beauty of the wooded area with inviting clearings to explore. The quarry rock face might reveal hidden shapes if you look closely.
Meandering Downhill: Stick to the main path, which leads downhill to a gate and the road. Cross over to the large gate opposite and follow the wide path.
Canal Proximity: Walk parallel to the Cromford Canal, where a right turn offers access to the canal towpath. You can choose to explore Cromford Mills or Ambergate. For this walk, continue uphill on the wide path, passing through a gate and crossing the road to a diagonal footpath.
Discovering Local Lore: Follow the path to a clearing reputedly used for filming “Stig of the Dump.” The path loops back to the right, leading to rudimentary steps ascending sharply uphill.
Approaching the Finish: Climb the steps and traverse the back of the allotments, following a gravel track to Whatstandwell. On Hindersitch Lane, turn left uphill for the final stretch. Admire the village homes, green, and gardens.
Admiring the View: As you reach Coddington Farm, pause to appreciate the sweeping views across the valley towards Alderwasley.
Continue uphill until you spot The Cliff Inn on your left, the end of our walk, where you can enjoy a well earned pint!
