Kinder Scout from the Grouse Inn
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Lying equidistant between the major conurbations of Manchester and Sheffield, the dark gritstone massif of Kinder Scout rises sharply from the flat low ground of the Cheshire Plain to the west. Kinder is recognised as being of international importance for its landscape, recreational value and wildlife. The plateau forms a significant part of the Dark Peak Site of Special Scientific Interest.
The rock formations which characterise the edges of the Kinder plateau are formed from a type of sandstone called millstone grit. This was laid down in river deltas around 300 million years ago. The way these rocks have been eroded by water, ice and wind has given rise to several distinctive features.
On the north-western edge is Kinder Downfall, a spectacular waterfall and a well-known hot spot for visitors who want to experience the place in its many guises. Visible for many miles, the natural amphitheatre in which the downfall lies is often shrouded in mist, the prevailing wind creating a blow-back of the tumbling water. On sunny days the mist may be surmounted by a series of rainbows arching over the surrounding crags. The cold months of winter often give rise to almost architectural ice formations as the wind and the temperature combine to act on the cascading water.
On the western horizon the hills of Clwyd can be seen on a clear day, whilst to the east lies an often mist-shrouded, almost featureless plateau of short vegetation broken by black peat groughs.
We owe a debt of gratitude to Benny Rothman, who helped to organise the mass trespass on 24 April 1932. The event involved violent confrontation between gamekeepers and trespassers and resulted in the imprisonment of four of its leaders. It is widely regarded as the most important single action in securing public access rights to open spaces and is a model of effective civil disobedience.
During the 70th anniversary celebrations at Kinder Quarry, Hayward (the starting point for the trespass), Michael Meacher MP, the then environment minister, gave a public address on behalf of the government. He praised the actions of those involved in securing 'far-reaching changes to unjust and oppressive law'. The commemorative plaque of the trespass is situated at Bowden Bridge car park about a kilometre south of Waymark 12. This walk crosses the way of the trespass at Waymark 6.
During the walk, look out for grouse and hares. The route uses good paths and is mainly easy to follow. At the end, the Grouse Inn offers good food and drink with a cheery welcome.
England - Central England - Derbyshire - Peak District
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Birds, Flowers, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Lake/Loch, Moor, Mountains, National Trust, Pub, River, Wildlife
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