20/1/21 During this lockdown, I’ve yet again been exploring my local area of Wirksworth, Derbyshire just outside the Peak District National Park. I am learning so much about the area and each walk reveals another interesting tale or unusual artefact or feature. Today was no exception and after a steep climb out of Wirksworth in the direction of the Derwent valley, I walked past a rather fine but isolated hall known as Wigwell Grange. The Grange has quite a history and was once the scene of a brutal murder. George Victor Townley murdered 22 year old Elizabeth ( Betsy or … Continue reading Hugging trees and the site of a murder!

12th December 2020 From time to time on our guided walks we come across various stones or similar objects inscribed with poetry or phrases to read and reflect. The messages are very thought provoking and fit beautifully into the surrounding landscape. The stones can be found dotted around the millstone edges area of the Peak District and have been created by local artists. They were produced in response to the ancient Guide Stoops that helped travellers navigate their way across the moorlands. The words on the stones hold directions to guide us in the future and the tricky environmental terrain … Continue reading Companion Stones of the Peak District