The Peak District, Wild Flowers and TreesLeave a comment

The Wild Rose – England’s National Flower

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June and July are a great time for seeing wild roses whilst out walking.  These climbing plants can grow up to 5 metres in height and are a common site growing in hedgerows and alongside country lanes and paths.  The wild rose is England’s national flower.  They are usually pale pink but can also be white.  The most common variety is the Dog Rose, but you may also see Field Roses or Sweet Briar all of which have a similar appearance. The petals have a delicate scent can be scattered on salads, used to make wine, or added to jams … Continue reading The Wild Rose – England’s National Flower

History, The Peak District, The White Peak, Wild Flowers and TreesLeave a comment

Meadow Saxifrage in The White Peak

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The White Peak area of the Peak District is fully of beautiful wild flowers at present.  Meadow Saxifrage is just one of many different types of plants that love the limestone soils of this area. It’s Latin name is Saxifraga granulata and that is linked to its use in years gone by as a medicinal plant.  Granulata means ‘with grain’, while Saxifraga means ‘rock-breaker’.   Going back in history, it was believed that it had the power to break up gall stones and kidney stones.   Continue reading Meadow Saxifrage in The White Peak

Geology, History, The Dark Peak1 Comment

Keira Knightley’s Rock, Stanage Edge

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Over the last few years several customers have booked a personal walking guide with us in the Peak District with the request that they wanted to be taken to Keira Knightley’s Rock so that they can have their photograph taken standing on it.  What they are referring to of course is a particular rock on Stanage Edge on the eastern side of the Dark Peak where actress Keira Knightley stood in an iconic shot in the 2005 film version of Pride and Prejudice when she took the leading role playing Elizabeth Bennett. This photo was taken a couple of weeks ago … Continue reading Keira Knightley’s Rock, Stanage Edge