Matcla three

Slow Way not verified yet. Verify Matcla here.

Leaving on the decent from the ridge that Clay Cross sits on you can see the other ridges this walk crosses, the path leads through fields and along small sections of quiet roads to begin the climb upto the first of smaller ridge, path is reasonably easy to follow here.
Once the ridge is passed begins the descent to the River Amber crossing a couple of roads, the river is crossed near Fallgate, a station on what was the Ashover light railway remains can be seen around here if you look closely enough. The river is followed a short distance towards Milltown but then left on the climb towards Cocking Tor and Ravens nest, this is quite a climb and the path in parts seems more like a stream following the rains of late, the chimney you pass is thought to be the flue of the steam engine in the once Gregory's lead mine the waste you are walking through hidden by the trees, the view to your left from Ravensnest is back towards Clay cross and Ogston res. The route is now well defined following Allen Lane to Blakelow farm then back on fields dropping down to Tansley by the fete field, a little road walking then regaining the footpaths near the lower millponds crossing though Lumsdale to emerge at Matlock Green , crossing the main road and finishing by walking along the river Derwent in the park.
To sum up after rain was wet in places, some squeeze styles a few to climb some horses
some strenuous parts pubs cafes either end, boots etc essential.

An excellent country walk. I started from Clay Cross so it was basically down hill although there were some stiff ups along the way. It was muddy but no flooding except for a section of road that was avoided by entering the field. No cattle seen but they may have been in doors. No climb stiles but plenty of narrow squeeze stiles, some steps and potentially slippery slopes. I didn't use either of the inns on route but was pleased to have a welcome at the Red Lion in Matlock Green. An infrequent bus links the end points or set out from Chesterfield or Derby for a great linear walk.

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