Saturday, 10th May | Around 10 miles of joy, bluebells & cake
The one with… a surprise view, canapés in hiking boots, and Sound of Music meadows
🐔 6:30am – A Noisy Start to a Beautiful Day
The cockerels may have long finished their morning announcements, but the farmyard choir was in full voice as I woke at my charming little campsite. Fergus was still snoozing while I brewed a cuppa and made porridge, soaking up the peaceful countryside vibes. I’d arrived the day before, detouring via Chesterfield for a windscreen check — a pesky stone chip on the A45 had grown into a 20cm crack! Thankfully, it passed inspection (though “insurance claim” is top of Monday’s to-do list). Stepping away from city chaos and into the moors above Baslow Edge felt like entering another world. I couldn’t wait to meet everyone for our Chatsworth Surprise walk.
☕ 9:30am – Bluebell Woods & Big Views
We set off from Bakewell, tempted by the smell of fresh coffee and pastries wafting from the cafés. Our lungs soon got a wake-up call with a hearty climb through bluebell-filled woods, emerging onto open pasture with glorious views across the Derwent Valley. Fergus and Jilly bounded with joy while the rest of us soaked up the sunshine. Meanwhile, Snay and Soup gave us a giggle as they twirled through the meadows, full Sound of Music style. 🎶
🪜 10:30am – Ladder Steps & Our First ‘Wow’ Moment
A wooded trail led to a set of steep stone steps where we all paused to choose our route — gate or climb? Fergus, ever cautious, chose the gate. And then… the big reveal. As we crested the hill, the Chatsworth Surprise was unveiled — a sweeping view across the estate, down to the elegant grandeur of Chatsworth House nestled in the valley. Cameras came out, Insta-moments were had, and we followed frolicking lambs through the park.
🍰 11:00am – Tea, Tiffin & Quirky Cottages
We reached the picturesque village of Edensor (that’s Enza, if you’re local), marvelling at its eclectic architecture — Tudor beams, Norman-style homes, even Swiss chalets and Italian villas! The 6th Duke of Devonshire had the old village demolished because it spoiled his view, then rebuilt it in this delightful patchwork style. We passed a charming cake stall, but the call of the tearoom was stronger. Tea, tiffin, and sunshine on the patio… bliss. Fergus even enjoyed a doggy ice cream, slurping with great enthusiasm.
🐕 11:45am – Into the Bustle of Chatsworth
After a peaceful start, we finally met the crowds — picnicking families, excited dogs, and groups of cheerful DofE teens (probably thrilled the weather was nothing like soggy Corfe Castle memories!). A riverside stroll gave us a close-up of Chatsworth House, home to the Cavendish family since the 1550s — and still a jaw-dropper today.
🐄 12:15pm – Meadows & Moo-Moos
Too full for lunch, we made a pit stop at Chatsworth Garden Centre for a quick foot check and comfort break before heading along a quiet country lane. The cows barely noticed us, too busy munching on spring grass as we passed through sunlit meadows.
🧋 1:00pm – An Unexpected Treat
We took a little detour into Rowsley in search of cold drinks and a picnic spot at the Post Office garden… only to find it had just closed! But the hiking gods were smiling — around the corner was The Peacock pub, recently renovated and under new management. Despite being slightly underdressed, the staff welcomed us warmly and invited us to sit in the garden. “Canapés, anyone?” Yes please! ✨ A beautiful spot to pause, refresh, and enjoy a touch of luxury. (Bonus points for the super-posh ladies’ loo!)
⛰️ 2:15pm – One Last Climb
Refuelled and revived, it was time for “the last hill!” I cheerfully declared. Okay… it was definitely the last big one. 😂
🌼 2:45pm – Bluebells & Beautiful Memories
At the top, we paused again — the views towards Stanton Moor were stunning, and the bluebells were in full bloom. Snay and I shared a giggle, reminiscing about the time we slip-slided down this hill in icy conditions on the 9-Ladies trail. Thankfully, today was much drier!
🛤 3:15pm – A Gentle Finish
We cruised down a farm track and joined the Monsal Trail for the final stretch into Bakewell. (We’ll explore more of this lovely route tomorrow.)
🥧 3:45pm – Goodbye & Good Grub
We waved farewell to Paul & Soup 😔 before embarking on a mission to find Bakewell Tarts and a Homity Pie (cheese, potato & onion heaven). No Homity to be found, but we enjoyed a refreshing drink and hearty meal at The Wheatsheaf Pub. A perfect way to wrap up a day of adventure.
⛺ 6:30pm – Campfire Calm & Cow Serenades
Back at camp, Fergus wasted no time curling up in the shade for a snooze. I headed to the infamous shower shack (yes, a literal shack, very Shrek vibes), then settled in for the evening — feet up, heart full, and serenaded by the soft mooing of cows drifting across the fields.