Three walks have been brought to life by the installation of an information board placed at Miller’s Dale Station, a popular starting point along the Monsal Trail and gateway to the wider Wye Valley. The board is complimented with finger posts that help guide people along the trails.
Julia Gow, who lead on the project for Derbyshire Wildlife Trust said, “It is really important to us that wildlife and nature is accessible. When we make walks easier to follow people feel much more confident to go and explore. The Wye Valley is a really special place so we are delighted to help people see more of it.”
The Peak District National Park’s Engagement Ranger, Rob Kenning added, “The Monsal Trail route remains as popular as ever, not least during this last year with so many of us rekindling our connection with nature and the outdoors throughout the pandemic. These signposted routes help to unlock the wildlife wonders that are often just a stone’s throw from the trail, and each one well worth exploring for its hidden gems.”
The Trust have showcased three walks in the area. A Children’s Trail which is 1.5km (30 minutes) passed the limekilns and along the river. A longer Riverside Trail, 3km (1 hour) which offers the chance to see dippers and over the stepping stones and The Monsal Trail a 3.5km route which takes just over an hour.
The Wye Valley is a place renowned for its wildflowers, species including spectacular but tiny bee orchids, wild thyme, bright yellow bird’s-foot trefoil, rich blue hare bells and cowslips. If you visit, keep an eye out for the orange and black of dark green fritillary butterflies and be sure to try and spot a dipper, Derbyshire’s iconic bird, bobbing up and down on rocks in the river. The walks also take in key historical sites such as the Viaduct which is now used as an abseiling bridge, lime kilns, stepping stones and steep quarry cliffs.
This project is funded by the government’s Green Recovery Challenge Fund. The fund is being delivered by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with Natural England and the Environment Agency.