Geology Peak District Social Walk | 10th October

Come join BMC Access & Conservation Officer (England), Jon Fullwood to learn how the landscape has been shaped through millions of years

You are invited to join a geology themed walk in the Amber Valley guided by Jon Fullwood – BMC Access & Conservation Officer and local climber. Jon will share his knowledge of the area to explain how the landscape has been shaped through millions of years of ancient history and later human activities. Walking around the Amber Valley we’ll cross areas of gritstone, limestone and igneous rocks, each telling a part of the story - of tropical swamps, extinct sea creatures, violent volcanic outbursts and lost industries. Stopping at crags, caves, mines, and quarries, we’ll see typical Peak District fossils, minerals, archaeology, and geology - including some great lesser-known climbing venues. Hopefully you’ll walk away with greater understanding of this beautiful Derbyshire backwater and the wider Peak District landscape.

We’re excited to welcome you for a memorable day in the outdoors!

Jon is responsible for the BMC’s access and conservation work across England. His role is to maintain and promote responsible access to the hills and crags of England, through direct landowner negotiations, volunteer coordination, and communication with the outdoor community. Jon’s background as a lifelong climber and developer of new routes and boulder problems affords a deep knowledge about these places, and a broad passion for the wildlife and geology that make them so special.

Walk Details

Walk Grading: Moderate

Distance: Approx 10 km (6.5 miles)

Ascent: 350 m (1,150 ft)

Duration: Approximately 3 hours

If you or anyone in your party can’t attend after booking, please let us know so we can offer the place to others

Meeting Details

Time: Saturday 10 October, 09:50 am for a 10:00 am start

Location: Ashover Rock lay-by, Alton Lane, S45 0BB

OS Grid Ref: SK 358 636

Google map pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ongvMkubArigT8JYA

Parking: Free

Please check out the BMC Liftshare service

Facilities: None

Public Transport: Bus services to Kelstedge, around a 20 minute walk from the starting location

What to Bring

We’ll cover a range of terrains, so please ensure you are well-prepared with appropriate gear

Footwear: Sturdy, water-resistant hiking boots or shoes with good grip

Clothing: Dress in layers, including a warm layer and waterproofs, as conditions can vary; bring a hat and gloves

Food and Drink: Bring enough food and water for a full day’s walk; there will be no places to purchase refreshments en route

Other Essentials: Although we plan to finish within daylight hours, carrying a small torch or head torch is advisable for emergencies. Sun cream is advisable on warmer days

Who Can Attend

Anyone, under 18's must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Well behaved dogs are welcome but must be always kept under close control, please indicate on your booking if you will be bringing a dog

Health Precautions: If you have any health conditions that might impact your participation, please inform us in advance. Carry any required medications, and let the walk leader know if assistance may be needed in accessing them

If you are unsure of your ability or would like advice regarding kit and suitability for this walk, please email the leader in advance

This walk incurs a £2 donation fee towards our hill walking projects. If you are unable to pay this fee, please contact us in advance, and we will anonymously include you for free

BMC Participation Statement

The BMC recognises that climbing, hill walking and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or death. Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions and involvement

Photographs may be taken by the leader for future communications about the programme. If you do not wish for your photograph to be taken please let the leader know in advance or at the start of the walk

By participating in this walk you agree to act in a kind and inclusive manner. Bullying, discrimination or the use of foul language will not be tollerated

Questions

Feel free to contact BMC Hill Walk Leader, Jon: jon.fullwood@thebmc.co.uk