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A Walk Around Chatsworth House Grounds

Recently our walking club enjoyed a three-mile walk around the beautiful grounds of Chatsworth House. The route included a steep climb to the Tower via uneven steps, which proved challenging for some. While the fitter among us reached the top with ease, others took it at a more relaxed pace, with plenty of breaks to enjoy the scenery. The views from the top made the effort worthwhile.

An older woman with glasses and short grey hair sits at an outdoor café table, holding a pastry in one hand. In front of her is a festive takeaway cup with a reindeer design. Behind her, stone arches are decorated with twinkling lights, and people can be seen walking through the area.
A wide-angle shot of an older woman with glasses and a green padded coat standing in front of a rock formation with small waterfalls. The area is surrounded by woodland with moss-covered rocks, trees, and a forest path leading further into the scene.
A group of four people pose near a sign reading "House & Garden Entrances" at Chatsworth House. The group consists of an older woman in a green coat, a woman in a grey coat and yellow t-shirt, a man in a red beanie and blue jacket, and another man in a brown coat holding a small device. The background features parked cars and the rolling hills of Chatsworth.
A man in a red beanie and blue checkered jacket sits at an outdoor café table, smiling with his eyes closed. Behind him, a festive wire Christmas tree lit with golden lights stands in front of a stone building. Other people are seen walking around the market area.
Three people stand near the "House & Garden Entrances" sign at Chatsworth House. From left to right: an older woman in a green coat and glasses, a man in a red beanie and blue checkered jacket, and a man in a brown coat holding a small device. Behind them are parked cars, a stone building, and rolling hills.

At the Tower, we discovered a painted hidden rock on top of a brick shed, marked #NorthumberlandRock. We’ll rehide it during another walk to continue the fun for others.

The walk took us along peaceful footpaths and past waterfalls before looping back to our starting point. We ended the morning with coffee and cake at the café—a satisfying finish to a lovely outing.

Great company and good weather made for a memorable day. Until next time!

If you’d like to join Walking Club, please speak to your Community Support Worker or give us a call on 01623 397750.

An older woman with glasses and a green padded coat stands in front of a rock formation with small waterfalls. Above her, a person with an orange backpack and jeans stands triumphantly on the rock, smiling. The surrounding area is filled with trees and moss.
Two men stand on a grassy verge beside a road near Chatsworth House. One man wears a red beanie and a blue checkered jacket, while the other wears a brown coat and navy beanie, holding a small device. A sign reading "House & Garden Entrances" stands nearby, with cars and buildings in the background.
Four people pose in front of the Chatsworth House grounds. The group includes an older woman in a green coat, a woman in a grey coat and yellow t-shirt, a man in a red beanie and blue checkered jacket, and another man in a brown coat holding a small device. The sign behind them points toward the House & Garden entrances.
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A Short Walk Around Matlock

Members of Walking Club enjoyed a leisurely day out in Matlock, which turned out to be the perfect mix of relaxation and festivity!

An informational sign for the Lover’s Walk trail, detailing the history and layout of the scenic route explored by the CET Walking Club

The crisp November air was invigorating as the group set off on a short walk around Matlock. Scenic surroundings always have a way of lifting spirits! With the last autumn leaves clinging to the trees and a hint of winter in the air, it was a gentle reminder that Christmas is just around the corner.

Two CET Walking Club members pause during the Lover’s Walk, framed by the tranquil riverside path and charming buildings in the background.

Exploring Matlock Garden Centre’s Christmas Display

After the walk, we headed to Matlock Garden Centre – a must-visit at this time of year. Their Christmas display was nothing short of magical. From twinkling lights and glittering ornaments to beautifully themed decorations, it was a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own decorations or simply want to soak up the festive atmosphere, this place never disappoints.

A wider view of Jubilee Bridge in Matlock, showcasing the picturesque architecture and a Walking Club member in the distance enjoying the scenery.
A CET Walking Club member standing at the centre of Jubilee Bridge in Matlock, surrounded by scenic winter trees and historic streetlamps, waving joyfully.

Coffee and Cake in the Café

To round off the outing, the group went to the garden centre’s café for a well-deserved coffee and cake. The café was cosy and welcoming, with the hum of happy chatter and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air.

A cheerful CET Walking Club member seated inside the cosy café at Matlock Garden Centre, wearing a warm winter coat and smiling warmly at the camera.

Why You Should Join Us Next Time

Matlock and its surrounding gems have so much to offer, especially during the festive season. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful stroll, a little shopping, or just some quality time over coffee and cake, it’s a wonderful way to spend a day. If you haven’t joined Walking Club, why not make the next trip your first? It’s a great opportunity to connect with others, explore local areas, and enjoy new experiences.

Please call 01623 397750 for more information or speak to your Community Support Worker.

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A Day Out with Walking Club: Exploring Tansley Knoll, Matlock

Three walkers sitting on a stone wall with a countryside backdrop – Three smiling walkers sit together on a stone wall, with rolling hills and green fields stretching into the background under a cloudy sky.
Group of walkers on a stone bridge over a reflective stream – A group of walkers standing on a stone bridge, looking down at the calm water that reflects the trees and landscape around them.
Walkers on a bridge with autumn leaves in the foreground – A view of a stone bridge over a stream with a group of walkers, framed by a bed of fallen autumn leaves in the foreground.
Walkers on a stone bridge with lush countryside around – A group of walkers gathered on a stone bridge over a stream, surrounded by tall trees and grassy hills.
Group of walkers in front of a waterfall in a rocky forest area – A group of walkers pose in front of a cascading waterfall, surrounded by rocky terrain and autumn foliage in a forest setting.
Close-up of a waterfall flowing over moss-covered rocks – A natural waterfall flows over rugged, moss-covered rocks, surrounded by autumn leaves and rich textures.
Smiling woman in front of a waterfall – A woman smiles at the camera, standing in front of a cascading waterfall with a background of autumn leaves and forest trees.
Group of walkers gathered by a waterfall in a wooded area – A group of walkers pose together in front of a rocky cliff with a waterfall, surrounded by trees and autumn colors.

Our walking club recently set out for another enjoyable adventure, this time exploring the picturesque Tansley Knoll in Matlock. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect, making it an ideal day for a walk and good company.

The walk spanned about three miles, with a few challenging hills that added to the excitement. Along the way, we enjoyed taking in the sights of historic mills, now derelict but still rich with stories of the past. It was fascinating to imagine the bustling activity that once filled these spaces and to see how nature has slowly reclaimed them over time.

One of the day’s highlights was the scenic waterfalls – truly a sight to behold! The soothing sound of the water and the fresh air brought a sense of calm to everyone. To top it off, we were delighted to encounter some friendly animals along the route, including a curious pig and even a few alpacas!

After soaking up the scenery and the history, we ended the day at a charming local garden centre. It was the perfect spot to relax and enjoy refreshments and our packed lunches. Everyone went home feeling happy, contented, and looking forward to our next club outing.

Until next time!

Waterfall among autumn leaves and rocks – A beautiful waterfall cascading down surrounded by rocky terrain and autumn leaves, capturing the natural beauty of the walking trail.
Bridge over a peaceful stream with autumn leaves – A group of walkers standing on a stone bridge over a calm stream, framed by autumn leaves and trees in a serene countryside setting.
Walkers standing on a bridge by the river – Close-up of a group of walkers standing together on a stone bridge over a gentle river, enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Walker standing by an information board about local ponds – A walker stands next to an informational sign about the Middle and Lower Ponds, surrounded by tall ferns and trees.
Group of walkers posing by a waterfall in the woods – A group of walkers standing together in front of a cascading waterfall in a forest area covered in autumn leaves.
Two walkers in front of a stone wall with countryside views – Two walkers leaning against a stone wall, smiling with a green landscape and hills in the background.
Three walkers by a stone wall with a rolling countryside view – Three walkers standing in front of a stone wall, with a scenic countryside and cloudy sky in the background.
Woman petting a friendly pig through a fence – A woman reaching over a wooden fence to pet a friendly pig in a woodland area, with autumn leaves scattered around.
Three walkers posing by a stone wall with green fields behind – A group of three walkers standing together by a stone wall with expansive green fields and hills in the distance.
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Walking Club Visits Vicar Water Country Park 🌿

Three people standing together, smiling, in front of the Vicar Water Country Park sign. The woman in the center wears a black puffer jacket, while the other woman is in a purple coat, and the man is in a black jacket and grey beanie. The background shows the park’s green landscape.
A smiling woman in a black puffer jacket standing in front of a sign at Vicar Water Country Park. She looks happy and ready for the walk, with trees and greenery in the background.
Two people standing together, both smiling, in front of the Vicar Water Country Park sign. The woman is wearing a purple winter coat and the man is dressed in a grey beanie and black jacket. Behind them, trees and other walkers can be seen.
Three people standing together, smiling, in front of the Vicar Water Country Park sign. The woman in the center wears a black puffer jacket, while the other woman is in a purple coat, and the man is in a black jacket and grey beanie. The background shows the park’s green landscape.
A group of three people sitting at a table in Rumbles Café, enjoying a meal. The table is filled with plates of food, and a pumpkin Halloween decoration is hanging on the wall behind them.
A man sitting at a table inside Rumbles Café, smiling at the camera. He has a packed lunch in front of him, along with a cup of tea, while others in the background are also enjoying their meals.

We recently enjoyed a lovely walk around Vicar Water Country Park, covering about two and a half miles. The weather was cool but pleasant, perfect for exploring. Instead of sticking to a set route, we ventured onto different trails, taking in the beautiful scenery.

As always, we finished our walk at Rumbles CafĂ©, where the staff gave us a warm welcome. Some of the group indulged in delicious jacket potatoes and toasties, while the chunky chips were an absolute treat – definitely a must-try! 🍟

We left feeling refreshed, relaxed, and grateful for another wonderful walk with great company. Looking forward to more adventures with friends! 🚶‍♀️🌤️

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Belper Walk with Walking Club

A man in a burgundy jacket and purple polo shirt standing next to a large, smiling potato statue wearing a cowboy hat, outside a James Pringle store.

On our most recent walking club adventure, we set out to explore the nearby town of Belper. Known for its rich industrial heritage and picturesque surroundings, Belper always makes for a fab’ destination. The walk took us through the heart of the town, with plenty of time to admire its historic mill buildings and gorgeous landscapes. Along the way, we stumbled upon a fun and quirky stop – a larger-than-life statue of the one and only Mr Potato Head!! It made for some great photo opportunities and plenty of laughs!

A man in a burgundy jacket and purple polo shirt stands next to a large potato statue wearing a cowboy hat, with a woman dressed in camouflage trousers leaning her head on the statue's arm, both smiling outside a James Pringle store.

The Walking Club is a wonderful way to connect with nature, meet like-minded people, and explore the beautiful local areas. Our walks vary in difficulty, but we always make sure there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or a more challenging hike, our club offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere for all abilities.

A man in a burgundy jacket and purple polo shirt standing next to a large potato statue wearing a cowboy hat, raising one hand as if to wave, outside a James Pringle store.

If you’re a service user and you’d like to join us on future walks, please get in touch! We meet every Tuesday, and our next adventure will take us to another great location nearby. Simply bring comfortable walking shoes, a bottle of water, and a sense of adventure.

We look forward to welcoming new faces to the group!

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Tuesday Walking Club – Stanton Moor

Group Photo with Scenic Background: Four people standing side by side on a road with a picturesque rural landscape in the background. Rolling green fields stretch into the distance under a clear blue sky. From left to right, a man in a navy blue T-shirt, a man in a brown shirt holding a camera, an elderly woman in a red jacket, and a woman with long grey hair in a light blue top and pink hoodie.

As the old saying goes, ‘The sun always shines on the blessed,’ and we were certainly blessed on our recent walk to Stanton Moor to see the Nine Ladies.

Our group enjoyed a wonderful 2.5-mile walk through farmland, spotting sheep, cows, and even alpacas along the way. We had a good laugh climbing over the stile as the views began to open up, revealing a stunning panorama. From the top, we could see Matlock and Riber Castle in all their glory.

Man with binoculars: A man stands alone on the road holding binoculars, examining them carefully. He is wearing a brown shirt and dark pants, standing against a scenic backdrop of green fields and distant hills under a bright blue sky.

Reaching the Nine Ladies stone circle, we were amused to find not just nine stones, but also a lady doing yoga in the middle, making it ten! After soaking in the scenery, we made our way back to Barn Farm, where we were warmly greeted at the shop and treated ourselves to some well-deserved coffees.

Such a lovely day—everyone left feeling contented and happy! 🥾🌿

If any service users would like to join us on future walks, please speak with your community support worker or call the office on **01623 397750**.

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Walking Club Adventure: Exploring Elvaston Castle

Three individuals stand in front of a sign for Elvaston Castle, which is surrounded by greenery. The person on the left is wearing a blue jacket, the person in the middle is wearing a beige shirt and black shorts, and the person on the right is holding binoculars and wearing a grey t-shirt and hat.

Recently, our walking club ventured to the beautiful grounds of Elvaston Castle, a local gem nestled in the heart of Derbyshire. With its rich history, sprawling woodlands, and intricate carvings scattered throughout the forest, it proved to be the perfect spot for our latest adventure.

As always, we set off with eager anticipation, excited to explore the castle grounds and reconnect with nature. The day greeted us with mild weather, perfect for walking, and the sun occasionally peeked through the tree canopy as we made our way down the winding trails.

Three individuals give a thumbs-up in front of the Elvaston Castle sign. The person on the left is in a blue jacket, the person in the middle wears a beige shirt and black shorts, and the person on the right has binoculars around their neck and a red jacket tied around their waist.

Upon arrival, we gathered at the iconic Elvaston Castle welcome sign. Standing proudly in front of it, our group posed for a quick photo to commemorate the start of our day. The grounds were welcoming, and we could already sense the adventures ahead.

The paths wind through wooded areas filled with various wildlife—perfect for the avid bird watchers. One member even brought along binoculars!!

A person wearing a grey t-shirt and bucket hat stands under an archway made from intertwined branches, holding binoculars, in a wooded path.

One of the surprises of the day was discovering beautiful wooden carvings hidden within the woods. First, we stumbled upon a charming owl sculpture followed by a tower.

A man in a blue checkered jacket stands outdoors next to a detailed owl carving made from wood. The background features trees and undergrowth, creating a woodland atmosphere.
A tall, wooden sculpture resembling a tower or castle spire is set among lush greenery and ferns in a woodland area.

After exploring the castle grounds and woodlands, we finished our trip at the Elvaston Castle Local Nature Reserve sign. The reserve, with its carefully preserved landscapes, is a haven for wildlife. We couldn’t help but take another group photo to round off a thoroughly enjoyable day.

Two people stand by a sign welcoming visitors to Elvaston Castle Local Nature Reserve. One person on the left is giving a thumbs-up, while the person on the right points to the sign and holds binoculars.

This trip was a reminder of why we love our walking club so much. Not only does it keep us active and outdoors, but it also brings us together, offering moments of discovery, laughter, and shared appreciation for the beauty of our local surroundings. Elvaston Castle gave us everything we could have hoped for—a mix of history, nature, and art, all wrapped up in the serenity of a day spent in the woods.

We’ll be back to explore more of Elvaston’s secrets!!

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Tuesday Walking Club Conquers Mam Tor!!

Signpost at Mam Tor, High Peak Estate, with a National Trust logo at the top. Below, there is an information board about Mam Tor, referred to as the 'Mother Hill,' including details about its geology and history. A warning sign beneath it advises visitors to be cautious of cliff edges and to keep children under close supervision. In the background, grassy hills and blue skies are visible, with a person seated in the grass.
Two people sitting at a wooden picnic table outdoors, surrounded by tall trees. One person, wearing headphones and a pink hoodie, is looking down, possibly at a phone or tablet. The other person, with blonde hair and wearing a grey t-shirt, is eating a snack and looking towards the camera. Backpacks and a pink water bottle are placed on the table. The area is fenced, and sunlight filters through the trees, casting light and shadow across the scene.
Picnic Time!

Our walking club recently embarked on an incredible adventure to the top of Mam Tor, also known as the “Mother Hill.” Nestled in the heart of the High Peak, this spot offers some of the most stunning panoramic views in the Peak District. The weather was on our side, with blue skies and a gentle breeze guiding us to the summit.

A woman smiling while standing outdoors near the Mam Tor signpost, with rolling green hills in the background under a partly cloudy sky. She is wearing a light pink jacket over a butterfly-patterned shirt and a pastel scarf, with wind blowing her hair. A wooden fence and grassy area are visible behind her.

With enthusiasm and excitement, we followed the well-trodden paths to the peak. Along the way, we admired the wild beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys, breathing in the fresh air that comes with being surrounded by nature. At the summit, we were greeted by 360-degree views stretching far and wide across the Peak District National Park. It was the perfect spot to rest, take in the scenery, and capture some photos!

A woman standing and smiling near the summit of Mam Tor with a scenic landscape of green hills and valleys in the background. She is wearing a light pink jacket, a butterfly-patterned shirt, and a pastel scarf, with her hair being gently blown by the wind. The ground is made of cobblestone, and other people can be seen sitting and admiring the view in the distance under a partly cloudy sky.

Our walking club is not just about fitness and exploring nature; it’s also about building community and creating friendships. The camaraderie shared as we reached the top, smiling with pride at our achievement, is what makes these walks so amazing!

A woman standing and smiling next to a stone pillar at the summit of Mam Tor, with the stunning landscape of rolling green hills and valleys in the background under a partly cloudy sky. She is wearing a light pink jacket, a butterfly-patterned shirt, and a pastel scarf, with her hair blowing slightly in the wind. Other visitors are sitting on the grass in the background, admiring the view.

If you’re one of our service users and looking to join a supportive group that enjoys exploring beautiful outdoor spaces, our walking club is perfect for you. We offer regular walks every Tuesday, and each week brings a new adventure, whether walking local countryside paths or taking iconic hikes like Mam Tor.

A wide, panoramic view of the landscape surrounding Mam Tor in the Peak District. The scene shows a dirt walking path winding through grassy hills, with expansive, rolling green hills and valleys in the background. The sky is bright blue with fluffy white clouds, creating a beautiful contrast with the natural terrain. The view captures the peaceful, open countryside, offering a sense of vastness and tranquility.

To find out more about how you can get involved in the next Tuesday walking club adventure, please speak to your community support worker or call our office on 01623 397750.

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A Wonderful Tuesday Walk at Shipley Country Park

A group of people walking down a peaceful, tree-lined path in a forested area. The tall trees on either side of the path provide a canopy of green, and the group is seen walking ahead in the distance, enjoying the natural surroundings.
A small group of walkers sitting outside on a stone bench area near a green lawn. Two individuals are seated on a bench, while another stands beside them, smiling. It is a relaxed moment after the walk with greenery and trees in the background.

Walking club recently had the pleasure of exploring the beautiful paths of Shipley Country Park, covering a distance of about three miles. What made this walk truly special was that it was led by one of our members, who is usually quite reserved. However, this time, she stepped up confidently, guiding us all on a scenic route with ease and grace.

Two women seated on a wooden bench, smiling at the camera. Both are wearing comfortable casual clothes, suggesting they are taking a break after the walk in a relaxed outdoor setting.

As we walked, we were able to enjoy the stunning views, including a glimpse of the old Shipley Hall, a historical gem in the heart of the park. The weather was kind to us, with the rain staying away, making for perfect walking conditions.

A man smiling and sitting on an outdoor exercise machine in a park. He appears to be having fun as he uses the equipment. The surrounding area is wooded, with leaves scattered on the ground.

After our refreshing walk, we gathered at the park café to enjoy our packed lunches, along with some well-deserved coffees, cakes, and sausage rolls. The lively conversations and shared laughter over lunch made it a fun end to our outing.

Two women are smiling as they lean against a brick wall outdoors. One is standing, and the other is seated, both appearing happy and relaxed. Behind them is a green, open area with trees and bushes.

Everyone left in high spirits, albeit a little tired from the day’s activities. It was such an enjoyable experience that we’re already planning our return for another day. The group’s enthusiasm and the confidence shown by our wonderful leader made this walk one to remember!

Two women sitting at an outdoor café table, one hugging the other. They are smiling, with food and drinks, including a sausage roll and a coffee, on the table in front of them. Both appear to be enjoying a friendly moment post-walk.

We can’t wait for the next adventure. If you haven’t joined us yet, what are you waiting for? It’s a great way to explore new places and meet friendly faces! Please speak to your Community Support Worker or call us on 01623 397750 for more information.

A group of walkers sitting at a picnic table outside a café, enjoying drinks and snacks. The table has cups, drinks, and sandwiches, and the people are smiling and engaged in conversation, with a cosy outdoor seating area in the background.
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Walking Club – Pleasley Vale


Last week’s walk took us around Pleasley Vale and its historic mills. The weather was beautiful, albeit a bit warm. We began at Meden Square and followed the river, walking downstream. The shade provided by the overhanging trees made the journey quite comfortable, and before long, we arrived at Pleasley Mills, a site rich in history. It wasn’t long before stories of ghosts started circulating among us.

We continued along the winding road, passing the old Vale village, and eventually reached the Mansfield Wildlife Centre, where we took a much-needed break for refreshments and enjoyed our packed lunches. The wildlife was a delight to see, although a cheeky raven tried to muscle in on our picnic. By this point, we had covered about two miles.

With the temperature rising, it made sense for two of us to fetch the minibus and car to collect the rest of our group from the centre and head home. All in all, it was a relaxing and informative walk, enjoyed by everyone.

If you’d like to join us next time, please call 01623 397750.