Step Into October

The simple act of putting one foot in front of the other and going for a walk has many benefits for your mental and physical health. Just 30 minutes walking every day can increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen your bones and muscles, and help you to lose weight too.

Walking is a vitally important part of our lives. It is important to ensure you get out and enjoy the fresh air whenever you can. A university study found that the more steps people took during the day, the happier their mood was! This is because walking stimulates the brain and releases natural endorphins to the body.

Whilst on your visit to the Heights of Abraham, you may like to explore a few kilometres further along the Masson hillside. The walking route takes you across the wider Heights of Abraham estate, past various historical points of interest including abandoned mine workings and shafts. There are hills, valleys, nature, and wildlife to be seen along with far-reaching views of the Derbyshire Dales that span for miles. Masson Hill is a SSSI, specifically because of the Wild Orchids that grow at certain points in the year and the rich geological history that the hill holds.

Pick up your free copy of the walking map from the High Falls gift shop or ask a Masson Cavern guide for more information.

There are several other incredible walks in the Matlock area...

From the Heights estate, you can see a large, sheer cliff face. This cliff is called High Tor and is favoured by many as a must-do walk in the Derbyshire Dales. The walk begins near the ticket office at the Cable Car base station. If you follow the path upwards you will come to the top of High Tor and see some spectacular views.

For the thrill seekers there is also a slightly hairy cliff edge walk, aptly named 'Giddy Edge' which takes you around the front of High Tor (there is a hand rail to use!). The route takes you into the Starkholmes area of Matlock where there is a lovely pub to reward your efforts! 

Tip: If you've parked in the Matlock Bath Train Station and walked along High Tor to Matlock, we would suggest getting the train back to Matlock Bath to give your legs a rest!

Another local walk you could try is the route across Masson Hill towards the quaint, historic village of Bonsall. Once at the Tinker's Shaft area of the Heights estate, there is a public footpath signpost that if you follow it to the left, you will find yourself walking along the top of the hill, through woodlands and fields until you reach the charming village. Once there, there is a great pub or a lovely tea rooms to visit. You could then continue your walk down to the industrial heritage village of Cromford before heading back to Matlock Bath (either by train, bus or foot if you're up for a few more miles!). 

Wherever you choose to walk, be sure to breathe in the fresh Derbyshire air and take in the stunning scenery of the county that we are so lucky to call our home.