Stones, Storms & Sandwiches: Derwent Edge Does Not Disappoint

Today’s hike was a masterclass in being prepared, staying dry, and falling a little bit in love with every stone on Derwent Edge. It was one of those rare days where the forecast was grim, the trail was long, but I came home smiling, warm, and dry, basically the hiking equivalent of a miracle.

I set off with the goal of ticking 3 Ethels (Lost Lad, Back Tor, Crook Hill) and bagging the Back Tor trig. What I didn’t expect was the absolute joy I’d find in every single rock formation along the way. The Salt Cellar, the Wheel Stones, the Hurkling Stones and I genuinely lost track of time just taking photos from every possible angle like a starstruck geology groupie.

The weather turned on me (as it does), but this time I was ready. Overtrousers, gaiters, waterproof jacket, and everything on at the first drizzle. Last week’s wet-sock trauma still haunts me, so I was not about to repeat that horror show. And guess what? I stayed dry. The entire time. A personal best.

I walked the entire Derwent Edge ridge in classic Peak District grey. It felt moody and wild and absolutely alive. Then came Crook Hill, where the rain really turned up. But even then me, soaked on the outside, smugly dry underneath, I was thriving.

Somewhere near the woods, I pulled out my cheese sandwich and wandered through the pine trees like a damp goblin with a lunchbox. It was peaceful, earthy, and weirdly wholesome.

Oh, and in case you’re wondering, yes, this was a training hike for the Welsh 15. I might’ve planned a short one, but I somehow clocked over 20 km and 765 m of ascent, while staying fuelled, happy, and dry. That’s real prep. This wasn’t just a hike, it was progress.

🧭 Route Snapshot: Derwent Edge Loop

📍 Start/Finish: Fairholmes Car Park, Ladybower Reservoir

🥾 Distance: 20.72 km⛰️ Elevation Gain: 765 m⏱️ Time: 5h 20m

🟢 Ethels Bagged:

• Lost Lad (518 m)• Back Tor (538 m)• Crook Hill (382 m)

📍 Trig Point: Back Tor

📸 Trail Highlights:

• Salt Cellar Boulder• Wheel Stones• Hurkling Stones• Derwent Edge ridge• Pine forest descent near Crook Hill

🥪 Vibes: Cheese sandwich in a rainy forest, feet dry, soul full.

🧠 Takeaway Thought

Sometimes, progress doesn’t look like speed, but it looks like preparation, patience, and the ability to enjoy the rain because your socks are finally dry. 💪