Over the Top and down the Dale - update on Monday 25th

NB I did a quick assessment of a small part of the route today, following recent snow and rain. It isn't too bad underfoot where I checked, though muddy in places. But there was a cold blustery wind. So just be prepared for wintry conditions! Route could be modified on the go if any more rain overnight.

It's a walk from Stannington to Malin Bridge, via Stopes, Storrs, and the Loxley Valley.  From Nethergate, the walk starts with views down into the Rivelin Valley  and crosses several of the "20 fields" before turning off up to High Riggs Road and then downhill towards Stopes on a steepish path. The route continues up to Storrs on a quiet track, then its a section of road walking before descending  into the Loxley Valley near the Fishery pond. This first half of the walk has some sections that are rough and stony underfoot and may be slippery if weather has been wet. Once down in the valley we pass many industrial sites, now derelict and unused. From here it is easy walking, and more sheltered, on  good paths all the way back to Malin Bridge.