Calton Lees and Rowsley Loop

Starting near the picturesque village of Calton Lees in Derbyshire, England, the Calton Lees and Rowsley Loop is a delightful 9 km (5.6 miles) trail with an elevation gain of approximately 200 meters (656 feet). This loop trail offers a medium difficulty rating, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There

To reach the trailhead, you can drive to Calton Lees, which is well-signposted from the A6 road. There is a car park available at Calton Lees, which serves as a convenient starting point. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is in Matlock, about 6 miles (9.6 km) away. From Matlock, you can take a local bus or taxi to Calton Lees.

Trail Navigation

For navigation, it is highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on track.

Trail Description

The trail begins at the Calton Lees car park, where you will immediately be greeted by the serene beauty of the Derbyshire countryside. As you set off, the path meanders through lush meadows and gently rolling hills, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Significant Landmarks and Nature

At approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you will come across the historic Calton Houses, a collection of charming stone cottages that date back to the 18th century. This area is rich in history, and you can almost feel the presence of the past as you walk through.

Continuing on, the trail takes you through dense woodlands, where you might spot local wildlife such as deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The forested section provides a cool, shaded respite, especially during the warmer months.

Rowsley and the River Derwent

Around the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you will reach the village of Rowsley. Here, you can take a short detour to visit the Rowsley Mill, a historic watermill that has been beautifully preserved. The village itself is quaint and offers a few spots where you can rest and perhaps enjoy a picnic.

The trail then follows the River Derwent for a stretch, offering picturesque riverside views and the soothing sounds of flowing water. This section is relatively flat and provides a nice contrast to the earlier elevation gains.

Return to Calton Lees

As you loop back towards Calton Lees, the trail ascends gently, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The final stretch takes you through open fields and pastures, where you might encounter grazing sheep and cattle.

Historical Significance

The region around Calton Lees and Rowsley is steeped in history. The area was once part of the extensive Chatsworth Estate, and remnants of its storied past can be seen throughout the hike. The landscape has been shaped by centuries of agricultural use, and many of the stone walls and buildings you pass have stood for hundreds of years.

Final Stretch

The loop concludes back at the Calton Lees car park, where you can take a moment to reflect on the diverse landscapes and historical landmarks you have encountered along the way.