Eckclo two

Slow Way not verified yet. Verify Eckclo here.

I walked this route from Clowne. I agree that the best alternative for getting out of Clowne is the pavement alongside the main road, however it soon becomes a more minor road. Barlborough is delightful, with several refreshment opportunities. I found the 1:25000 map essential for following the paths west of Barlborough, because the path on the ground is not where the OS show it, and the route is not obvious some of the time. The entry into Eckington is on quiet paths. There are some good views along the way and pleasant countryside walking.

I could find no direct off road route out of Clowne. Perhaps Eckclo-1 offers a quieter road but this way the pavement is good although the traffic noisy. I looked at using Barlborough Country Park but the road here was less busy and the park paths indirect.

The stone sign for Clowne has a series of footprints but I guess these are for walking pavements, not field paths. Barlborough village is pleasant and I sat on a bench in the churchyard for a late lunch, there is also a tap here.

The ancient cross by the Rose and Crown has a plaque "This plaque was erected to commemorate the successful campaign to keep Barlborough in Derbyshire 1969-71" The De Rodes Inn and a shop along with two other quiet gardens offer further opportunities for a break. The Golden Gate Arch leads to a tranquil garden and the village war memorial, while opposite is Doreen's Garden on land donated by the Co-op, both have seats.

The Fox and Magpie Heritage Walk indicates that the track off Ward Lane is available as a footpath so it's used here as an easier route than the footpath from Ruthyn Avenue. Pass under the M1 then again ignore the OS definitive paths and follow the walked route through woodland as plotted here. Cross the old rail embankment then it's back on track to Spinkhill.

A short section of road with no pavement so care is needed then enter the grounds of Mount St Mary's RC College. The footpath follows a track through the extensive sports fields before crossing by bridge over the Trans Pennine Trail cycle route.

A bridge with steps takes us over the railway then another bridge crosses the River Rother. The path follows the perimeter of the golf course before using an old raised causeway to reach the road.

I'm not convinced that the meeting place at Eckington is appropriate so this route takes in the town centre shops and the bus layby which has the grand title of 'Bus Station'. It appears to serve all local services so is far better than the current meeting place where the bus stop was ignored by my bus home.

Share your views about this route, give it a star rating, indicate whether it should be verified or not.

Include information that will be useful to others considering to walk or wheel it.

You can add up to 15 photos.