Swallows Wood via Devil’s Bridge
SWALLOWS WOOD
Peak District walk via Devil's Bridge
AMAZING CIRCULAR PEAK DISTRICT WALK
This Peak District walk ticks all the boxes... start off through hilly fields with spectacular views, descend down to a tranquil brook, then enter a peaceful wood where you are surrounded by nature. To cap it off there is a fantastic waterside cafe at the end of the walk where you can rest with a well earned brew.
2.5 miles
1 hour
MEDIUM
HEADING OFF
Step out of the holiday cottage and turn right at the end of the driveway. Follow the lane down to the bridge and up to the farm. You can go through the farm and follow the public footpath sign posts. Please note that while the area is very dog friendly, it is important to keep your dogs on leads when walking near the farm and nearby fields. Go over the style near the water outlet and then go through the next gate on the left. Be careful to keep your distance from any newborn lambs in the fields.
DEVIL'S BRIDGE
Continue over the fields, following the footpath. You will come to a style. Take a moment to soak in the view and then go over the style and follow the path down the hill until you reach the brook. Here you will find a wooden bridge known as "Devil's Bridge". The origins of this name are not clear... there are rumours of witchcraft and supernatural events, or perhaps the original version was so rickety it could only be described as the work of satan. Thankfully the bridge is in good working order these days so it is perfectly safe to cross.
SWALLOWS WOOD
After crossing the bridge turn left onto the footpath and follow it down to Swallows Wood. This is a very peaceful place with all sorts of wildlife flourishing. In spring, the bluebells in woods look fantastic. There are various routes you can take through the woods. Use the signs to help you choose your preferred path. They all eventually lead Arnfield Reservoir which is the last stage of our walk.
Arnfield Reservoir
Once you have finished exploring the woods, come out onto Arnfield Reservoir and follow the path round in an anti clockwise direction to the north side of the reservoir. You will then come out on Crossgate Lane, next to the fly fishery. There is a lovely cafe here by the waterside where you can rest and enjoy a well earned cuppa! Once you're refreshed, head up Crossgate Lane back up to the holiday cottage.