An autumn adventure
Words: Jennie Sim
Images: Jennie Sim
With autumn upon us it’s time to put the flip flops away and dig out the wellies and all-weather footwear, for me Autumn is a time for great family adventures, and I look forward to seeing the changing colours of the countryside.
The perfect family day is taking a vote on where to go and then we know where we will be eating afterwards! Some of our top adventure places and favourite food spots I thought I would share.
Mam Tor also known as the shivering mountain is four miles east of Chapel-en-le-Frith (A6) and just west of Castleton (A6187). We usually allow roughly three hours to complete the steep ascent up parking near the top of Winnats Pass and then very slow descent down as it can be quite slippy at times. The children love watching the hang-gliders and paragliders with them copying racing around at the top being blown away by the winds which FYI can be quite strong!
With rosy cheeks and hungry bellies, we then head to Ye Olde Nags Head (1 Cross Street, Castleton, S33 8WH) where you are guaranteed a fantastic home cooked meal. I am still yet to eat off the main menu as the specials always tempt me, their vegan cottage pie was incredible. My husband always has their pie of the day and is never disappointed. I have taken friends there and they have indulged in their cream tea’s, which are equally as fantastic as the rest of their grub!
Three Shires Head could be argued as one of the most attractive places in the peak district and easily enjoyable all year round, the walk starting point is four miles south-west of Buxton on the A54. The River Dane provides the fun as it flows under a packhorse bridge (poo sticks at the ready!) and over a waterfall…. Who doesn’t love a waterfall? Walking time is only two hours, but we can spend four hours easily here paddling, relaxing and looking for treasure! After heavy rainfall the river can become harder to cross so bear that in mind.
Toes dried we head off in the car to The Knights Table which is roughly a ten-minute journey but long enough when you are all hungry from an adventure in the fresh air. The knights Table is an amazing knights themed travellers rest relating to the legend of Sir Gawain and the Green Knights. If the sun is out it’s a shame not to take some time on the beautiful patio area and admire the views over the Peaks. The Sunday dinner is a favourite amongst our family but make sure you book so as not to be disappointed! If they have the Baileys Cheesecake, then get in fast before the rest of the tables do!
Longshaw Estate is definitely a good few hours of fun, reached by the B6051 through Owlers Bar it’s a National Trust property free to enter and they often put on additional free activities for the children – winner! You walk around the grounds heading to the lake.
On route there is a vast forest area with natural obstacles for climbing, hiding and of course exploring. Wellies are a must especially as we get closer to the wetter months – many a welly has been left behind and then retrieved by a child in one muddy sock. There is a tea-room on site if you fancy a cuppa and snack, for those out of energy after an extensive game of hide and seek I recommend you head to The Scotsman’s Pack Country Inn Hathersage, less than ten minutes away via the A6187. Sunday lunches are fantastic but do book prior to your visit as they get booked up well in advance, any other day you are spoiled for choice with the main menu. Bubble and Squeak terrine for me with a roasted chicory salad on the side! Worth mentioning that their Bakewell pudding has won a Great Taste award! The specials change weekly so if you were to visit more than once in a month no one could blame you!