The Roaches:
Roaches (or Roches) is a wind-carved outcrop of gritstone rocks straddling the parishes of Leekfrith and Heathylee in the Peak District National Park about 4 miles north of Leek, Staffordshire.
The name Roaches has evolved recently from 'Roches' as the area used to be known only 100 years (or less) ago. 'Roches' is the french word for rocks.
The Roaches are particularly popular with climbers because of the diversity of the climbing routes there. Also there are many miles of paths to satisfy the most seasoned rambler.
The Roaches area includes Hen Cloud, so named because with a little imagination it looks like a roosting hen and Ramshaw Rocks which includes the weird rock formation called the Winking Man.
For many years, from the 1930's to the early 2000s, Wallabies roamed the Roaches. Some say they are still out there. They had been released from a private zoo. 3 Yaks were also released at the same time but they died out in the 1950's.
Bakewell Market Town:
Bakewell in Derbyshire and the Peak District , is a beautiful, small, market town situated on the River Wye which is crossed by a 13th century 5 arched bridge still open to traffic. The famous Bakewell pudding was invented accidentally at the Hotel, when a cook misinterpreted instructions and poured egg mixture over the jam instead of mixing it in the pastry and what should have been a tart was now a pudding. Bakewell puddings can be bought at several shops in the town centre.
There are lots of unique shops, cafes and restaurants to visit and Market day every Monday and farmers market on Saturday's once per month.
The Manifold Valley and Trail:
Great for Cylcing/Walking/Climbing
The Manifold Trail is a multi-user route along the Manifold valley following the former Leek and Manifold Light Railway. This trail is an easy route being on a tarmacadam track and minor roads between Waterhouses and Hulme End and, as such, is suitable for children and old people. The High Peak and Tissington trails are much more exposed to the weather than the Manifold. The route has been open since the 1930s when the railway closed, and is probably the earliest case of a disused railway line being converted to a walkers' and cyclists' route.
Waterhouses official car park is just off the main Ashbourne to Leek road, the A523. Here you will find cycle hire and toilets.
En route high up in the cliff you can see Thor's cave. Worth a climb up for views of the valley. Further on is Wetton Mill where toilets and refreshments are available. There is another cave to explore above the cafe.
Other Activities:
Rock Climbing
