Bigmat one

Slow Way not verified yet. Verify Bigmat here.

The review is Biggin to Matlock. The route can be split in two the first half along green lanes and the High Peak Trail. Then onto the Limestone Way, field paths with climbs, stiles, gates and cattle. The route out of Biggin is shared with Bigwir-3 or it's possible to use Bigwir-1 so a few options. Only services at Bonsall 2 miles from Matlock.

The walk out of Biggin is along a roadside pavement before crossing the A515 to follow Cardlemere and Minninglow lanes, these are shown on the map as Other Route with Public Access (ORPA) perhaps better known as a Green Lane so there could be motorised traffic.

Meeting the High Peak Trail the surface improves, only cyclists share the old rail line which was built like a canal with level sections between steep inclines operated by ropes and stationary engines although none of those are on the section we use.

On the left a stand of trees is Minning Low now known as Minnglow Hill a great landmark for miles around, a permissive path allows access if you wish to explore. The trail is also the Pennine Bridleway so you may meet horses. After crossing two roads at Longcliffe look out for a four way finger post to leave the trail. There is a seat here which on the breezy day of my walk was a sheltered spot for lunch.

It's now paths across fields with stiles, if I dare call them that. There is also Limestone Way arrows but the plot is fine and the paths are fairly well walked. The Limestone Way goes via Grangemill where there is an inn but our route cuts the corner to Ible it's a gentle down to the road which needs care as there is no verge but a direct crossing when there is a gap in the traffic.

It's a climb up to Ible and the path here is hidden but find the steps which offer assurance the path has been found. Back on the Limestone Way at Ible cattle in fields but they have no interest in me. The path crosses the Bonsall Mines site with humps and hollows from old working.

The route drops down to the head of The Dale then climbs again, leaves the Limestone Way and finally drops down the centre of the village and The Kings Arms, closed until 4pm. I think this climb unnecessary so offer Bigmat-2. A walk along the pleasant and quiet village street, the Slow Way again ignores the Limestone Way so no signs.

Back on the Way across fields, only grass throughout, perhaps I failed to mention. Some more stiles that are more a scramble over a fallen wall. Buildings appear in the valley and looking north I can see up to Rowsley the meeting of the Wye and Derwent valleys. Matlock is soon spread out below and across the valley I can see County Hall where we should direct any footpath complaints.

The route arrives at Matlock Bridge undergoing temporary changes today which will allow a huge crane to carry out repairs to the flood defences which were damaged last winter. The route ends at the station but I turned right and sampled a pint in the recently open Titanic pub, cheers.

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