From there it follows the route of probably the finest ridge walk in the Peak to our second summit; the 1563ft gritstone peak of Lose Hill, where Cuicholm, King of Wessex, is said to have camped prior to his battle with Edwin, King of Northumbria, in the Dark Ages.

 

We then descend to the valley, crossing the River Noe, which was reputed to have "run red with blood" in the aforementioned battle, before climbing the 1523ft peak of Win Hill where Edwin is said to have camped.

 

From there we decsend through the pine forest to Ladybower Reservoir for a delightful 3 mile walk along its shores, before climbing a forest track to Hope Cross on the Roman Road between Glossop and the Roman fort of Navis.  From there we gently descend via Jaggers Clough and the old Packhorse Trail to Edale.

 

From Edale we use the old "Coffin Trail" to cross the saddle of Hollins Cross on our way to Castleton.  We leave Castleton via the Old Market Square and Cavedale.  The latter limestone dale, although originally carved out by the rushing waters of the Ice Age, is now dry and offers a fine view of Peveril Castle, mentioned in the Doomsday Book and built by William Peveril, an illegitimate son of William the Conqueror.

 

Crossing Hurd Low and Old Moor we descend via Oxlow Rake back to Peak Forest, and maybe a well-earned pint at The Devonshire Arms.