The Roaches
OS Grid SK0062. Simply stunning, The Roaches is a wind-carved outcrop of gritstone rocks straddling the parishes of Leekfrith and Heathylee in the Peak District National Park about 4 miles north of Leek, Staffordshire and 8 miles south of Buxton.The Roaches are particularly popular with climbers because of the diversity of the climbing routes here. Also there are many miles of paths to walk along. Ideal for a picnic, The Roaches has fantastic views from its top easily reached by one of the footpaths. The Roaches area includes Hen Cloud, so named because with a little imagination it looks like a roosting hen. Also Ramshaw Rocks which includes the weird rock formation called the Winking Man. See if you can find him.
Wallaby Spotting at the Roaches
For many years, from the 1930’s to the early 2000s, a fairly large group of Wallabies roamed the Roaches. It is believed only one is left now. They had been released from a private zoo. Three Yaks were also released at the same time but they died out in the 1950’s.The last sighting of the wallaby was July 2010 see if you are one of the lucky rare few who manage to catch a glimpse of it.
Padley Gorge, Longshaw Estate
OS Grid SK2759. Follow the stone path through this ancient wooded gorge and feel centuries of history beneath your feet and overhead. Padley Gorge is one of the finest remaining examples of oak and birch woodland that once covered many Dark Peak valleys. Down below, Burbage Brook – the largest water course running through the Longshaw estate – tumbles over the massive boulders beneath. Many choose to take a wild dip there or in one of the secluded deep spots further down when following the rivers path, following the path up you come out into the clearing, your views boast Longshaw Estate the most perfect place for Picnics.
Carlton Lees, Chatsworth
OS Grid 2568. Locals know that you don’t have to pay to go into Chatsworth House to enjoy its Estate, you can take a picnic your football and frisbee. The River Derwent cascades for half a mile, while the landscape is open allowing sun to shine through from dusk to dawn, you can bask in it or swim, rope swing ,paddle or simply take in the beautiful scenery, deer graze across the river, fly fishers casting their rods. Locals also know behind the house holds its most special treasures that are very much unexplored. Take the path to stand woods from the house and you will find the Hunting Tower, Swiss Cottage with the beautiful quiet lake overlooking the moors and the Aqueduct that feeds water to Chatsworth .