From Derwent to Ecclesbourne valleys in November mud.

Holly tree near Belper

The walk from Belper in the Derwent Valley to Wirksworth in the adjacent Ecclesbourne Valley gives some superb views both ways as you stride across open fields and through the squeeze gaps.

Although this holly tree has a Christmas feel about it, I was reminded that in the Middle ages Holly was a winter fodder crop and indeed the leaves highest and out of normal reach are not at all prickly!

After heavy rain the path was flooded up to a meter and a half and there was no alternative but to divert.  A good test for the boots!