This Peak District circular walk starts in the car park at Wetton village (grid ref: SK 108 553; approx. postcode: DE6 2AF). This is not a difficult walk but there are some steep ascents and slippery paths, making this walk inaccessible for anyone with mobility issues. The walk is just under 11 kilometres and should take about 3 hours but allow longer if you wish to spend time in Thor's Cave, stop to admire the views, or spend some time in the pub! I would strongly advise taking a map (OL24).
Leave the car park and turn right into the lane, turning right again at the first junction. Continue down this short track to reach a T-junction, from where you head left. Almost immediately on your left is a signed footpath which leads you along the hillside to Thor's Cave. We took a slight detour before heading to the cave in order to climb up the steep hill to look out across the Manifold Valley.
I was fascinated by Thor's Cave. You can climb in to the cave and over the rocks. There are gaps in the rocks from which you can look out over the valley below. More information on Thor's Cave can be found on the notice (photo) below.
Walk carefully down the path from the cave to the valley floor. It was quite slippery when we were there. Cross the footbridge and take the footpath that climbs steadily up through Ladyside Wood. Then head for the village of Grindon. This is when you might need your map.
Go northwards along the lane leading to Ossom's Hill. Follow this farm lane until you reach a footpath on your left (grid ref: SK 087 549) and follow this downhill towards the footbridge over Hoo Brook.
Then cross the stream and follow the brook in the valley towards the River Manifold, at Wetton Mill. The path passes in front of the mill house and climbs giving excellent views of the Manifold Valley.
Turn right to follow the clear path across Wetton Hill. The climb to the summit is worth the effort as the view is amazing. Then follow the footpath back to Wetton.
Wetton is a pretty village with an assortment of stone built cottages. We popped in to the pub, The Royal Oak, to have a spot of lunch. The staff were very welcoming and the food was good! From the pub, it is just a short walk back to the carpark.
