White Peak Walks: The Northern Dales

This book is an invitation to the healthiest recreation of all - walking in the countryside. It provides the perfect alibi to escape from routine and breathe deeply of nature's bounty; to unwind and see the beauty on its own terms. Where better than in the subject area of this central Peakland guide? It comprises both gritstone moors and edges bordering the northern limestone uplands - a deeply incised dome with dry valleys and narrow wooded gorge-like dales running crystal streams. The Northern Dales are a delightful blend of pastoral landscapes, densely patterned with lichen covered grey drystone walls and extremely well endowed with narrow walled lanes, packhorse ways and footpaths. Some 'thoroughfares' are in frequent use, whilst others remain, despite the popularity of the area, seldom trodden, making this the ideal location for recreational walking. The onus is not on 'bruising hillcraft' but rather on the more gentle reflective pace of the observant countrygoer who prefers to be entertained by a 'whole landscape' experience. This book presents a broadly based selection of walks from which both the first-time visitor may derive insights and the habitue gain new perspectives on the unique form and fabric of this, the first National Park in England, established in 1951.