Youth Hosteling in the Peak District - 1961

This article is from The Boarder, Issue 4, July 1961

Youth Hosteling in the Peak District - 1961 - J. Starling Form Lower 111

Chatsworth House

On 11th June Form Lower 11, under the good guidance of Mr. Foy and Mr. Cox, left school for a five day survey of the Peak District. Amidst considerable excitement boys and equipment struggled into the two cars and on a sunny morning we set off.

The two cars stopped en route at Chatsworth House. We were shown round the house and gardens which impressed us favourably - and then onwards again, into Derbyshire, and at last we arrived at Castleton Youth hostel.

On Monday we were taken to Blue John Mines, the scene of Conan Doyle's famous story The Terror of the Blue John Gap. This is the only place in the country where Blue John Stone is found; our guide suggested that the original monster of Conan Doyle's story might be found too.....

Blue John Mine

Blue John Stone

On Tuesday we made a farm survey and in the afternoon we made drawings of churches which was all very easy for those who could draw.

On Wednesday we had to make our way to Edale and then make a survey of the area and the next day we visited Ladybower Reservoir - a visit to which we had all looked forward. we were shown round by a guide and informed of the remarkable efficiency of the pumping system.

The next day our trip was scheduled to end. We had one final visit to make as a detour on our return journey. When we reached Matlock bath, we were taken to the Heights of Abraham and we went into Rutland Cavern where lead was mined by the Romans. Then came the long journey back to school...and work.

Heights of Abraham cable cars - Matlock

Rutland Cavern - Heights of Abraham