NATIONAL TRUST PEAK DISTRICT

Moor Views

2012-02-17T14:59:00.000Z

Come and find out about the Sheffield Moors Partnership. Contribute your views and ideas for the development of a draft masterplan to shape the future of this magnificent area.

SMP Workshop Poster

Themes we will look at in the workshops include:

- Being involved

- Recognising the wider value of the moors

- Access and recreation

- Sustainable land management

Workshop dates & venues

Wed 22 Feb, 6.45pm - 9pm
Totley Rise Methodist Church, Grove Road, Sheffield, S17 4DJ

Thur 1 Mar, 6.45pm - 9pm

Quaker Meeting House, 10 St James Street, Sheffield, S1 2EW

Tue 13 Mar, 6.45pm - 9pm
Hathersage Memorial Hall, Oddfellows Road, Hope Valley, S32 1DU

The workshops are free, but please book in advance by telephoning Lucy Chadburn on 01433 670 368.

For more details email

peakdistrict@nationaltrust.org.uk
or visit our website www.sheffieldmoors.co.uk

Health Walks Programme 2012

2012-02-03T11:42:00.001Z

Please bring waterproofs, warm clothes and appropriate footwear. Walks are of a moderate level with some gentle climbs and rough terrain; dogs on leads are welcome.

Each walk starts from 1:30pm, lasts approximately 3 hours and is free of charge.

Derwent, Bridge End car park
7 Feb, 12 June, 2 Oct

Longshaw Visitor Centre
6 Mar, 3 July, 6 Nov

Edale Train Station
3 Apr, 7 Aug, 4 Dec

Mam Tor car park, Castleton
1 May, 4 Sept

For more info on these walks or on any of our other events please contact: 01433 670 368 peakdistrict@nationaltrust.org.uk

10 years in the Alport Valley

2012-02-02T11:50:00.001Z

The remote Alport valley set within the Dark Peak area of the Peak District National Park is an exceptional scenic landscape which includes one of the biggest natural landslips in the country, Alport Castles. Around sixty species of birds can be found here including Skylark, Spotted Flycatcher and Reed Bunting. The valley is rich in invertebrate life and is internationally important for fungi growth; conifer plantations were introduced to the valley between 1930 and 1980.

An important partnership between the National Trust and the Forestry Commission commenced in 2002 with steerage from the Alport Advisory Group; consisting of other interested organisations and the local community with the aim to achieve favourable condition of habitats.

One of the commitments of the National Trust was the complete restoration of all the major dry stone walls within the valley. Dry stone walls are one of our main historic cultural heritages spreading across northern England for hundreds of miles. They are the backbone of the countryside and provide a mosaic patchwork quilt spreading across the varied landscapes.

Building of dry stone walls was believed to have started in the 16^th Century; the National Trust has records which confirm some of the dry stone walls in the Alport date from the 1630’s. These are the earliest recorded dry stone walls on our land in the Peak District and are now an important archaeological feature of our past.

The National Trusts Estate Team consists of five estate workers, whose work tasks consist not just dry stone walling, but stock fencing, hedge laying, footpath construction, chainsaw work and a wide range of moorland conservation work. Starting in 2002 we have spent one to three months each year up to early 2012 rebuilding 16 dry stone walls which totalled 1,486 metres in length.

Each dry stone wall is built approximately 1.40 metres high. Each square metre of the wall consists of 1 tonne of stone. This means that the 1,486 metres of wall has required 2080 tonnes of stone to be taken down and rebuilt, which has taken around 300 days and approximately 9,000 man hours to complete the project. The walling has been done in all conditions, including wonderful warm summer days, driving rain, and freezing cold days with snow on the ground, where each stone has had to be forced out of the solid earth with pick axes.

The walls are still very important for the modern farmer by providing strong boundaries that contain stock in fields. They provide valuable shelter from severe weather conditions and also allow ewes to give birth with protection from the elements vital in a lamb’s first few hours. It has been a memorable, enjoyable and immensely satisfying achievement to contribute to the restoration of these valuable historical features.

Steven Lindop

Estate Team Supervisor

Search under way for missing Hope Cross capstone

2012-01-30T11:12:00.001Z

UPDATE: The capstone has now been found - dumped in a passing place on a road near Bradwell, Hope Valley.

Article on BBC news website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-16782092

The capstone was taken sometime after Christmas

Rangers in Derbyshire's Peak District are urging anyone who knows where a missing historic landmark may be to come forward.

The capstone from the 270-year-old Hope Cross, which marks the boundary of the villages of Hope and Edale, disappeared just after Christmas.
National Trust senior warden Shane Bates said after a month of searching there was no trace of the capstone.
Anyone with information about the stone should contact the National Trust.
"We have been around the surrounding area, in the woodland and up and down the trackway to see if people have tried to move it, then got rid of it because it was too heavy," Mr Bates said.
He believes the Grade II listed piece of stone, which forms the top of the Hope Cross, may have been taken at night.
The value of the stone was more historical than monetary, he added.

The Longshaw Trail was our Choice Today...

2011-11-11T14:06:00.001Z

Here's a poem written by visitor Sarah Harmer who completed our Longshaw Geocache Trail. Come to the Longshaw shop to borrow our two GPS devices and have a go for yourself! Locations for all of our Peak District Geocaches can be found here: http://bit.ly/vRPfbm

The Longshaw trail was our choice today
Five series' caches and one more along the way.
With georellies we set out just before ten
By 2.00 we'd be back at the Lodge again! (for our free cuppa!)

The walk was fantastic over different types of terrain
And although it was cloudy it did not rain.
All five caches were easy to find
We examined the contents and each log we signed!

There was heather, bilberries and bracken too
There were trees of all species to frame each view.
We saw several cows and lots of sheep
Most were eating but some were asleep!

This is a wonderful circuit of less than five miles
We crossed bridges, forded streams and climbed several stiles.
For the series a favourite point we definitely award
And for us, four hours of fun was our reward!

From the lodge it wasn't far to cache number one
We looked for the TB but sadly it was gone.
We found the ice house, an interesting site
And set off for cache 2 on the route that was right!

From cache number one it was about a half mile hike
Along the sort of terrain we really like. (i.e. easy!)
Having located the cache, we enjoyed the view
And learning about the location was interesting too!

It wasn't hard to find cache number three
We punched our log for that free cup of tea.
We learned about the quarry and the millstone grit
And mile-a-minute and Commander H agreed this walk was a hit!

It didn't take long to locate this cache
But with gnats all around we had to dash.
There was just time to measure the tree (before we got bitten to death!)
And with cachers before us, an age of 56 years, we agree!

On the route from cache four we spied THAT van
And the most junior team member to this he ran. (he's forty something...!)
But as he was first he had to pay for us all
And we licked our ice-creams as we leaned on the wall!

This final cache was too easy to find
As it was very exposed so we hope you don't mind,
We've hidden it better but in the same place
So others will still find it easy to trace!

For the views of Carl Wark and Higger Tor
For such a wonderful walk we are awarding you once more.
A favourite point, and we just have to say
We will be back to enjoy the walk again on another day!

By Sarah Harmer
Visitor to Longshaw Geocache Trail on 30/08/2011

Software Company does some Hard Graft

2011-11-09T12:24:00.000Z

On Tuesday 18^th October, 14 staff members from Tessella Technology and Consulting met our Estate Team at Bowden Bridge in Hayfield for a day of volunteering.

With changeable weather and a biting wind, the group readied themselves for a day of gully blocking on top of Kinder with an air of anticipation, enthusiasm and only slight concerns about the blackening skies.

After a quick and bumpy ride in the Land Rovers to the bottom of Kinder Low, the group began to ascend the steps to eventually reach the shelter of the rocks on the plateau.

Whilst admiring the incredible views across to the Kinder Downfall, the spray of which was blowing upwards to look like smoke, Steve Lindop, the Estate Team Supervisor, told the group about the techniques that the National Trust had employed over the years to lay the paths that they had been walking on. Steve also gave the men a fascinating overview of the history and archaeology of the mountain; however it was during this talk that the threatening weather front finally hit the group and brought with it a mixture of hail and sleet.

Sheltering in their hoods (and, in one case, an umbrella!), the group walked on, battling the winds and ice, to eventually see Kinder’s trig point appear out of the gloom. It was at this moment that they finally spotted the work site in the distance.

Heading towards the bright white bags of stone, the group members were advised to walk with caution since they had left the safety of the path and were now on open moorland.

Negotiating a route through the squelchy peat, the men wove their way through the complex network of gullies to eventually arrive at the site near Noe Stool.

Without hesitation, they donned their work gloves and, after a quick demonstration, began to unload the half ton bags of stone into the gullies. The purpose of gully blocking is to slow the run-off of water down the mountain, which in turn reduces the amount of peat that ends up in the reservoir below.

As the men worked they witnessed their efforts beginning to pay off with water pooling quickly behind their stone dams. An unexpected upshot of getting a group of software engineers to do this task was that their professional eye for detail resulted in some of the neatest blockades on the mountain!

Ninety minutes later, with 40 bags unloaded, the weather had worsened and yearnings for a pub lunch were growing stronger, so the decision was taken to head down the mountain, past Swinesback and Edale Cross and into the comfort of the Land Rovers.

Needless to say, we would like to thank Tessella for all their help that day and for braving the atrocious weather to make a real difference to the National Trust’s work on Kinder.

By Cathryn Hamer, Volunteer Programmes Manager

Christmas at Ilam

2011-10-28T13:13:00.002+01:00

Get festive in the Peak District at Ilam Park’s new Christmas Festival!

Christmas at Ilam will be full of festive magic and visitors from near and far are invited to experience the winter wonderland of Ilam Park in the Peak District, on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December, from 11am – 4.30pm.

On the second weekend in December, the courtyard and the Tea Rooms at Ilam will be transformed into a magical Christmas Market, with beautiful, sustainably sourced Christmas Trees and some local hand made crafts for sale, as well as musical entertainment provided by Ilam School and other local musicians. There will be children’s games and Christmas craft activities to take part in, with festive face-painting, the chance to make Christmas decorations, and a warming cup of free mulled wine (for grown ups) in the Tea Rooms! Stall holders in the stable yard will include: Taste of the Moorlands, On a Wick & Prayer, Yumma Gumma Pickles, Woodland Crafts, Holly Wreaths, Hand Painted Cards & Pictures and many more.

Part of the National Trust’s Peak District Estate, Ilam Park is nestled next to the Manifold Valley, and offers stunning walks amongst majestic woods and open parkland. Visitors are invited to enjoy the peace and beauty of the area, and to celebrate the festive season with National Trust staff and volunteers at this new event.

Engagement and Events Officer, Jenny Gerrans says: “The atmosphere at Ilam Park will be one of festive enjoyment for all the family. Ilam is a beautiful place to share time with family and friends, enjoy some fresh air and try some of our delicious home made food. It’s the first time we’ll be holding our annual Christmas Market, so with all the plotting and planning, we’re really looking forward to creating something very special for everyone. I can’t think of a more magical place to buy a Christmas tree!”

Christmas at Ilam runs on Saturday 10 & Sunday 11 December, from 11am – 4.30pm. The event is free, and is part of an annual programme of events with the National Trust in the Peak District. For more information please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/peakdistrict.

Christmas in the Peak District

2011-10-27T14:45:00.001+01:00

Christmas Wreath Making Workshop

Ilam: Sat 19 November 10:30 - 15:30
Longshaw: Sat 26 November 10:30 - 15:30

Make a beautiful Christmas Wreath with our expert at the Moorland Discovery Centre, Longshaw. Equipment provided.

Christmas Tree Sales - Longshaw
Sat 26 November - Wed 21 December from 10am-4pm

Buy a Christmas tree from us and support our conservation work at Longshaw.
Call 01433 631757 for details

Christmas Crafts at Longshaw

Sat 3, Sun 4, Sat 10, & Sun 11 December, 10.30am - 4pm
Make fun and simple decorations at the Moorland Discovery

Centre. Enjoy festive music and meals in the tea room.

Christmas Festival at Ilam

10 & 11 December

11am to 4:30pm

Enjoy a family day out with tree sales, market stalls,

craft making, singing, music and entertainment at Ilam Park.

For a list of all of our events in the Peak District please go to http://peakdistrict.nationaltrust.org.uk/whats-on

KINDER SCOUT

2011-10-13T16:00:00.000+01:00

Iconic Kinder plateau

Dark glowering peaks of granite stone

Frown down on the melancholy land.

The mist blows in from distant shores

And sits forlornly on the giants shoulders.

The mountain plays hide and seek from swirling clouds

Hiding its macabre beauty, in a sombre cloak.

How different from the balmy summer days

When the sun basks the plateau in golden light,

Catching the purple glow of heather in all it’s magisterially splendour

A mountain where trampling boots made history

Where freedom to roam was won up on high

The mass trespass sweeping aside, decades of pious rule.

A treasure now for posterity, to keep and cherish

A burden upon the mantle of the National Trust.

As the clouds unfurl, it reveals a teardrop on the cheek of Kinder

Mermaids pool, a tear lamenting the waning of former glories

Kinder a fast decaying wasteland, a mocking travesty of once proud bog moorland

But now only endless hags of peat, and dark unforgiving groughs.

The bane of walkers, hands clutching to their lifeline ‘the compass’.

And yet here, still, where the white hare coarses

Where swoops and glides the curlew and the plover

Where creeps the spongy sphagnum

The bubbling stream that is Kinder river, which cascades over the downfall

Only to be thrown back on high by unseen giant hands, the upside down waterfall.

Here amongst the tormented rock, twisted into evocative shapes.

The hardy strength of bilberry, and crowberry, which clings tenaciously to life

Here where tranquillity, is found in the isolation and solitude

The majestic beauty of a mountain that can still define

The inspiration and aspirations of all who visit

‘Kinder’ the heart and soul of our Peak District

Steve "Blade" Lindop

Estate Team Supervisor

National Trust Walking Festival

2011-10-12T10:10:00.000+01:00

Walk with us and discover the great outdoors in the Peak District with the following events or with one of our downloadable walks from the website:
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-visits-walks/w-visits-walks_midlands-2.htm

Twilight Walks at Longshaw, Ilam Park and Edale

24, 25 & 26 October 2011
Take a stroll into dusk with one of our wardens, and find out about
some of the wildlife of these special places, after a bowl of seasonal
soup at the visitor centre/ tea room. 5 - 7.30pm.
£8 adult, £5 child. Booking essential.

Health Walk in Edale

27 October 2011
Join us for a Health Walk in Edale, as part of our programme of
Health Walks in the Peak District. 1.30 - 4pm, Free. Booking not
essential.

Drop in Walk at Ilam Park

28 October 2011
Join us for a stroll around Ilam park, on one of our regular drop-in
walks. Meet at 11am at Ilam Park shop. Free. Drop in.
Call 01433 670368 for bookings and information.

Marsh Heritage Award

2011-10-05T10:02:00.000+01:00

Question: What does Longshaw’s Kitchen Garden have in common with a stately home in Northumberland, a restored Victorian glasshouse in Norfolk and a cider-making project in Dorset?

Answer: A dedicated team of volunteers whose commitment has won them a national award!

Every year the Marsh Christian Trust and the National Trust present The Marsh Heritage Award for volunteer groups that have added value, made a difference and inspired others. The Awards are the brainchild of Brian Marsh OBE, chairman of the Marsh Christian Trust, who set up the charity in 1981 in order to recognize the “unsung heroes” working in conservation, science, the arts, heritage, literature and volunteering. For more information visit http://www.marshchristiantrust.org/

Longshaw Kitchen Garden Volunteers Dave Bone, Jill Beckett and Diane Gourley

are presented with a certificate and cheque for £250 by Brian Marsh OBE, Chairman

of the Marsh Christian Trust.

Last December teams of volunteers across the country applied for the Marsh Heritage Award and a panel of judges then sifted through the applications to whittle them down to 3 winners. This year, however, there are 4, as Longshaw Kitchen Garden achieved joint 3^rd place with Seaton Delaval Hall in Northumberland, winning £250 to spend on the project.

The award ceremony took place on 21^st July at Corfe Castle on the Purbeck Estate in Dorset, near to where the winning team of cider makers, The Old Volunteers, are based. It was a beautiful setting for the event, which was held in a marquee at the foot of the Castle. Representatives from each team of volunteers gave a short presentation to Brian Marsh of the Marsh Christian Trust, Sue Wilkinson, Director of Supporter Development, National Trust and other staff and volunteers from the winning properties. Volunteers Diane Gourley and Dave Bone joined me in an overview of the last 18 months in Longshaw’s Kitchen Garden, demonstrating how, with a lot of hard work and dedication, a neglected lawn could become an incredibly productive organic garden.

As proof of the pudding is in the eating, we’d taken along some goodies from the garden, including a selection of salad leaves and vegetables, together with blackcurrants and strawberries which went very well with the mini clotted cream scones provided by the catering team at Corfe. The Purbeck Team gave us a demo of their apple press and we sampled the resulting juice, which was delicious. We were also given a bottle or two of the winning cider to take home and share with the rest of the team.

Longshaw Kitchen Garden has a fantastic team of truly dedicated volunteers who have worked really hard over the last year and a half to make this project happen, so it was wonderful for our team to receive this award and gain national recognition of our achievement. We’re now planning what to do with our prize money, as we’d like to use it on a specific project, which we could develop over the winter – Longshaw’s Gardeners are always on the go!

This year, despite the disappointing weather, we’ve had another bumper harvest and our new raised bed has produced exceptional crops of salad leaves and lettuce. The fruit has done particularly well with masses of strawberries and blackcurrants which Longshaw’s Catering Supervisor, Sue Dunster, used to create a delicious cheesecake recipe earlier in the summer. This autumn our apples are looking good too. All our produce is organic and used in Longshaw’s Tea Room so why not come along and sample it for yourself.

Ilam Archaeology Day

2011-10-05T09:51:00.000+01:00

Dig in Process. Photos by Phil Evans, Volunteer Photographer

We held our second ever Archaeology Day at Ilam in July and had a really successful event. The purpose of the day is twofold: firstly to let our visitors and members know how and why the Trust is involved in archaeology and just how exciting it is, and secondly to find out a little more about the archaeology of Ilam itself.

Volunteer Steve Maynard with a young Archaeologist

We had around 600 visitors come on what was a lovely sunny Sunday (apart from 20 minutes monsoon style rain in the afternoon!) and were able to put on a wide range of activities and displays of interest to all ages. The highlight for most children was the “sandpit dig”, a huge sandpit with many buried finds to dig up and find out about. They also enjoyed making their very own original cave paintings below the Italian Gardens. A short distance away we had a real dig going on with support from our Regional Archaeologist Rachael Hall, where we dug a trench across some “parch marks” in the grass and found what might be the boundary wall of the original Ilam Hall. Elsewhere volunteers were excavating the Victorian ram pump that pumped river water up to the hall for the stables and gardens. One of the most dramatic activities was iron-age style iron smelting, where using a clay stove, iron ore, charcoal and an enormous set of bellows, several kilograms of iron was produced at the end of the day.

Many thanks go to the staff and particularly the volunteers who gave up their Sunday and threw themselves with great enthusiasm into this event – their excitement and passion was infectious and really helped make the day a success.

Next year we want to make it even bigger and better! I will be trying to get funding to pay for some more specialist archaeologists like our flint knapper and medieval cook to build on our success and make this event one that even more people want to come to.

Paul Mortimer, Projects Officer

Sunshine, Showers, Good Food and Volunteers

2011-08-23T09:12:00.000+01:00

This August we hosted two volunteers’ barbeques to say a huge thanks to all our volunteers for the help and support they give to the National Trust in the Peak District.

Held at the newly refurbished Dalehead Bunkhouse, the Dark Peak BBQ attracted over 50 staff and volunteers to try the good food prepared by our very own catering team and the beer from Bradfield Brewery which was chilled nicely in the stream.

In the beautiful and relaxing surroundings of Dalehead people mingled, enjoyed the view and had a tour of the refurbished bunkhouse. Luckily it had stopped raining 10 minutes before people arrived so we could all be outside, and there wasn’t even a single midge to contend with.

A week later it was the White Peak’s turn with over 30 volunteers and staff turning up at Grove Farm, which is also home to the Peak District Farm Shop and Tea Room.

Nick and Helen Bonsall, who run the farm, very kindly hosted the event in one of their sheds which had to be hastily swept out when we realised that the drizzle was set to stay. With Nick on the BBQ, we were well fed with produce from the farm and delicious salads and puddings prepared by Caroline and Helen in the Tea Room.

After pudding, everyone was treated to a tour of the farm which gave us all a real insight into life on a working farm as well as some of the work the National Trust does with its tenant farmers.

Linda Wilkins, Volunteer Membership Recruiter and Health Walk Guide said of the White Peak BBQ, “I thoroughly enjoyed the event and despite the weather the farm trip was great, being a country girl at heart, it was very reminiscent of my childhood!”

New dates for 2011 Health Walks

2011-08-11T12:10:00.000+01:00

We have now set 4 more dates for our Health Walks - they are the first Tuesday of every month in different parts of the Dark Peak area in the Peak District - booking isn't essential however if you wish to book please call us on 01433 670368 or email peakdistrict@nationaltrust.org.uk

Bangers & Bats Walks

2011-08-11T12:00:00.000+01:00

Ilam, Fri 19 August

Edale, Wed 24 August

Ilam, Fri 26 August
Longshaw, Wed 31 August
7pm - 9.30pm

The evening starts with a delicious plate of bangers and mash in the cafe (Manifold Tea Room, Penny Pot Cafe or Longshaw Tea Room), followed by a talk by a local expert and a dusky stroll to see and hear the bats.

Bring a torch and bat detector if you have one, also sturdy footwear and water proof clothing.

Cost: Adults £12 Child £8. Booking is essential via 01433 670368 or peakdistrict@nationaltrust.org.uk

Dark Peak Discovery Events

2011-07-27T14:21:00.000+01:00

Walk for Health at Edale

Tuesday 9 August from 1:30pm to 4pm

Join us for an easy to moderate level healthy walk with one of our wardens. Please meet at the Train Station car park in Edale. This is a free event however please call 01433 670368 to book a place

Twilight at Longshaw

Wednesday 10 August from 8pm to 10pm

A dusk walk, looking out for wildlife on the Longshaw . Be prepared to sit still and be quiet for short periods. Please meet at the Longshaw Visitor Centre. The cost for this event is just
£2.00 per person. Please call 01433 670368 to book on to this event

Tales & Tunes at the Penny Pot Cafe (Edale)

2011-07-27T14:17:00.000+01:00

Music, tales, and tasty food!

Friday 5 August, Edale
7.30 - 10.30pm

Enjoy a cosy night of fun and feasting with storytelling and live folk music in a lovely atmosphere. Includes a tasty bowl of summer chilli. The Penny Pot Cafe is near Edale Train Station. Bring your own bottle. £10 per person, booking is essential. Please also remember to tell us about any dietary requirements.

Call 01433 670368 or email peakdistrict@nationaltrust.org.uk for details and to book

Get on your bike at Longshaw and explore!

2011-07-13T09:19:00.000+01:00

Longshaw celebrates 80 years with the National Trust

2011-06-30T14:24:00.000+01:00

On the Sunday 19^th June the Longshaw Estate near Sheffield in the Peak District celebrated eighty years of public access and being looked after by the National Trust on behalf of the nation. Staff, volunteers, residents and friends of Longshaw, past and present, got together for a tea party with a fantastic swing band, bunting and balloons, and a specially made 80^th birthday cake!

The event was a reunion for many who have given their time and skills to look after the estate over the years. John Bunting, 93 years of age, remembered raising the funds to buy parts of the Longshaw Estate as a rambler many years ago, in a speech he gave to a busy audience before cutting the cake with the General Manager of the National Trust in the Peak District, Jon Stewart. This anniversary is being marked by a number of displays and talks taking place on the estate throughout the year. As part of these celebrations, the Trust is asking for those with any memories, memorabilia or photographs to get in contact and join in remembering 80 years of public access to the Longshaw Estate.

Jon Stewart commented “It is great to celebrate this event as it is all about people getting together to safeguard something they really valued for the future and that they saw the National Trust as the body to deliver that for them. Although it happened 80 years ago it is really relevant to the Trust’s current priority of working with local people to provide wonderful opportunities for experiencing the best the outdoors has to offer”.

Jon added “Longshaw is a wonderful place to discover spectacular views of the Peak District, its ancient woods, meadows, parkland and heather moorland, as well as to explore its varied history including millstone quarries and packhorse routes. The National Trust visitor centre is an ideal starting point for Longshaw and the Peak District and with its cafe a good place to relax before or perhaps better after a walk”.

With its long and varied history, Longshaw has something of interest for everyone. It was originally part of the Duke of Rutland’s shooting estate, with Longshaw Lodge as the accommodation. It is also the home of the Longshaw Sheep Dog Trials, reputed to be the oldest continuous sheep dog trials in the country. There are ancient trackways, guide stones and old quarries to explore, as well as the diverse range of habitats from heather moorland to ancient woodland, with the ever popular Burbage Brook leading down into Padley Gorge.

The Duke of Rutland’s 11,533 acre estate was put up for sale in 1927, and Sheffield Corporation purchased 3,200 acres for water collection purposes. The 747 acres originally acquired by the National Trust were purchased from the Corporation following a public appeal by the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England (CPRE). The land was first opened to the public on Easter weekend 1928 and was patrolled by volunteer wardens, with working parties from rambling clubs helping to maintain the estate. The necessary funds having been raised, the deeds were handed over to the National Trust at a ceremony on 27 June 1931. The Lodge was used as a guest house by the Holiday Fellowship until 1960 and then turned into private flats. The Longshaw Estate was the first piece of open countryside in the Peak District to be acquired by the National Trust, a year before the mass trespass on Kinder Scout and twenty years before the formation of the Peak District National Park.

So come and visit the Longshaw Estate and experience this key part of the history of the National Trust and the Peak District as a whole.

Please contact the Longshaw Estate Office on 01433 631757 with stories or information, and for details of events throughout the year please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/peakdistrict

Marks & Spencer volunteers help out

2011-06-30T13:51:00.000+01:00

Four hardy Marks and Spencer employees from our local store in Ashbourne took time out from their busy schedules to volunteer for a day with the National Trust. Little did they realise how steep the banks would be when they signed up for the day…

The walk down to Hubert’s bank, our work site for the day gave them a taste of the landscape. Passing by the site where Jacobs Ladder grows freely they learned about how we manage the area to encourage the rare plants such as Jacobs Ladder and the associated problems this causes. Limiting grazing on the grass and scree slopes stops the flowers being eaten but allows scrub to develop and that was their task for the day – removing the ash scrub that has developed along the bank.

Despite the imposing banks, Peter, Clair, Becky and Andrea really got stuck in and we cleared an impressive amount.

Before and after - one of the areas cleared

By the end of the day nobody needed to go to the gym and everybody needed a long cool drink.

Thanks to the M&S group and I hope to see you all again next year.

Mark Cunningham - Warden

NT Volunteers Recognised for Long Service in the Peak District

2011-06-28T16:39:00.000+01:00

On Sunday 26^th June, the National Trust in the Peak District celebrated the incredible service and dedication of its volunteers by presenting them with their Long Service Awards.

Over 25 volunteers arrived at the National Trust’s Longshaw Estate, near Sheffield, to receive their awards which ranged from 5 to 65 years’ service. Presented by Jon Stewart, General Manager, the group was informed of how much each individual’s support and commitment has helped the National Trust to continue to preserve its countryside estates for ever, for everyone.

Present were volunteers of all kinds, from membership recruiters, to kitchen gardeners, to bee keepers, to conservationists, each of whom play their part in the maintenance of Peak District’s beautiful places. Members of the Sheffield Clarion Ramblers were also in attendance having cut short their morning of bracken cutting to receive awards for, in many cases, over 30 years’ service.

John Boyle, who has been involved with the National Trust’s work since 1977, said, “Volunteering for the National Trust has always been fun. I've learned lots of new skills and made long lasting friendships. When I first started volunteering I thought I would just be contributing to the maintenance of our glorious countryside. After over 30 years I now realise that this has become a way of life and I've been rewarded a thousand fold by the fun I've had and the friends I've made."

Jon Stewart, General Manager of the National Trust in the Peak District said, "To meet and celebrate the achievements of people who have put in so much voluntary effort to help the National Trust look after large areas of the Peak District for everyone is both inspiring and humbling. One of the volunteers, Graham Baxby, has been involved since 1947! What I also take from this is that volunteering with the Trust is something people get a lot out of and I hope this inspires others to volunteer so that we can continue to do a great job in looking after and making available to people some of the country's most special places".

If you are interested in volunteering for the National Trust in the Peak District, please contact Cathryn Hamer, Volunteer Programmes Manager, on Cathryn.hamer@nationaltrust.org.uk or 01433 670368.

Countryside Open Days at Dunscar Farm, in Castleton.

2011-06-20T12:43:00.000+01:00

On the 29th and 30th of May, the National Trust in the Peak District held it’s annual Countryside Open Days at Dunscar Farm, in Castleton.

The hobby horses returned for the second year running and the Dunscar Derby was the highlight of both days, with both children and adults galloping to the finishing line with style. Families had a go at geo-caching, many for the first time, and the mobile cave and crazy bikes were popular new activities. The majority of the activities are put on by the National Trust staff and volunteers, who made the most of the bank holiday weekend’s unpredictable weather, creating a fantastic event for families and people of all ages. Monday’s rain was no problem; with the Penny Pot Café in the big barn and the camp-fire in the woods keeping everyone warm, dry and happy!

Events Officer Jenny Gerrans says "The Family Countryside Open Days are our biggest and best event of the year, so a big thank you goes to everyone involved. Set in the stunning scenery at the foot of Mam Tor and Winnats Pass, Dunscar Farm becomes a fantastic place of adventure and play, with music, refreshments and activities for the whole family to enjoy. If you missed the event, don’t worry - with plenty more events coming up in the Peak District, families have still got a fun-packed summer to look forward to with us, starting with the Cycling Weekends at Longshaw in July.”

Moorland Restoration Work Continues...

2011-06-10T16:18:00.000+01:00

The National Trust Estate Team has been busy in the Peak District getting materials ready for the next round of gully blocking, as part of the on-going moorland restoration work.

The first picture shows the team loading and weighing bags of stone for building dams in the peat on Kinder Scout. The second picture shows the bags of logs that are ready

The team now have now prepared 415 bags of stone (each containing around 400kg stone) and 300 bags of logs ready for flying onto the moors by helicopter at the end of July, this being the only way we can get the materials onto the moors.

Jonathan Leyland, Estate Worker

2011-06-01T15:37:00.000+01:00

Ilam Dew Pond Restoration

2011-05-12T08:55:00.000+01:00

In the sheep grazed parkland behind Ilam Hall, part of the Peak District Estate’s White Peak Area, is a large dew pond. About six years ago a fenced wooden platform was built next to it to enable safe pond dipping by many visiting school children each year.

During Restoration

Ken Sharples, the National Trust Community and Learning Officer, leads children as they net specimens from the dew pond, often to compare them with ones caught in the nearby river Manifold. The leeches, water fleas, water boatmen etc. are temporarily taken back to the Learning Centre beneath Ilam Hall. By using the projecting microscope the children can see images of the living creatures a thousand times larger on the screen.

Unfortunately, by 2010, the dew pond was choked with mud and reed-mace. Pond dipping was much less successful or enjoyable and biodiversity in the dew pond was reducing. Mudlarks National Trust Volunteers accepted the challenge to clear the unwanted mud and vegetation.

Dark Peak Area staff willingly loaned a pump to lower the water level and tools to dig out the dew pond during the dormant autumn and winter seasons of 2010. Mudlarks NTV minimised disturbance around the dew pond and left some mud and reed-mace in place to preserve habitat and encourage insects and other pond life to re-colonise it.

By the spring of 2011 school groups were back at Ilam and pond dipping in the restored dew pond. Ken Sharples said recent specimen catches showed that insects were flourishing once more in the dew pond and biodiversity was increasing.

After restoration

Future cooperation between the NT staff and volunteers to establish a regular maintenance programme will prevent the dew pond from becoming overgrown again. It will mean that this valuable learning resource is always available for visiting school parties and biodiversity in the dew pond continues to improve.

If you would like to join in other practical conservation projects look on the National Trust website to find contact details for your local volunteer group.

John Boyle Mudlarks NTV

Peak District to host New Cycling Event.

2011-05-09T08:08:00.000+01:00

An exciting new cycling event The National Trust's White Peak Challenge Ride will take place on the 3^rd July 2011 on the Peak District Estate starting and finishing in the picturesque village of Ilam. This new sportive, has three fabulous routes, a 38 mile route ideally suited to those who might be doing their first sportive, a 57 miles option and a 87 mile ride for the more experienced sportive rider, taking in some of the great Peak passes. All routes go through some of England’s most stunning countryside, offering riders the opportunity to explore areas where they may never have been. The event is organised on behalf of the Trust by the leading UK sportive organiser, KILO TO GO.

Jenny Gerrans, Events and Engagement Officer for Trust said, ‘We are really excited to be holding this new event in the Peak District. The short and medium routes will be taking in beautiful views of the limestone hills and dales of the White Peak, while the longest route will reach as far north as Longshaw, encountering some of the majestic gritstone edges and moorland landscapes managed by the National Trust in the Peak District.”

Simon Thomson from KILO TO GO said, “The White Peak countryside provides a route with some beautiful ingredients for a great ride in this spectacular area of the Peak District. All three routes take in challenging terrain and will provide hills that will exhilarate all riders. As the mileage increases the ride gets even tougher, providing a fantastic route for even the most experienced riders. With three fully arrowed and supported routes to choose from, and with plentiful designated free refreshment stops along the way, this is a great day out.”

The event forms part of the National Trust’s new cycling programme which encourages people to enjoy the outdoors on a bike. The National Trust in the Peak District are launching more downloadable cycle trails and running some other events including cycling weekends at Longshaw in July as part of the wider National Trust Cycling Festival. For more information please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/peakdistrict

For further details about the White Peak Challenge Ride route, charges and entry details - please visit www.kilotogo.com

Editors notes.

Routes

Starting at Ilam Country Park, all the routes head down towards Ashbourne, and then turn Northwards past Carsington Water, and up to Winster where the three routes split. The shorter route returns to Ilam via Parwich. The medium route heads over to Crowdicote where it rejoins the long route. The long route, meanwhile, continues North up to Baslow Edge, Longshaw and Hathersage.

At Crowdicote, the routes enjoy a spectacular descent down to Longnor before the long climb up to the Western edge of the Peak District and the Roaches. At which point, the riders enjoy a mostly downhill route back to Ilam via Onecote and Warslow before reaching Alstonefield where the short route rejoins. All the riders then enjoy a perfect downhill descent in to Ilam to finish.

The start line opens at 08:00 and closes at 09:00

Mam Tor Information Boards

2011-05-04T09:19:00.000+01:00

Jon & Chris working out how to lift the boards up.

The National Trust car park at Mam Tor, nr Castleton, has just acquired some new information boards.

The three boards have been made from green oak by local craftsman Austin Neaves.

They feature an interpretation map of Mam Tor and the Edale Valley, local information and posters on National Trust events in the area, plus holders for leaflets.

The heavy oak panels took a team of workers a day to get them into place.

Putting the first Borad in place

Steve Hodson, Estate Team

Dalehead Bunkhouse Refurbishment

2011-04-14T13:06:00.000+01:00

Dalehead Bunkhouse is located in Edale Valley in the Dark Peak area. It has been used as group accommodation for over twenty years for many different groups and activities. Some people have been visiting Dalehead each year for the past two decades; some have only just discovered it.

Kitchen mid-refurb

Surrounded by green hills, fields and fresh air it is an idyllic place, perfect for a relaxing break or energetic walking holiday in the Peaks. Dalehead is ideal for school trips, families and friends, working holidays and volunteers and due to the particularly dark skies above nearby Mam Tor, it is also great for visiting astronomers. The wood burner in the living room is perfect for a cosy night in and the seclusion and lack of technology means a perfect change from hectic everyday life.

Bathroom post-refurb

After two decades the furniture and facilities were badly in need of an upgrade and so a project has recently been underway to refurbish Dalehead, as well as to improve the energy efficiency and environmental impact of the whole building. As well as improve kitchen and bathroom facilities have been improved, dated furniture replaced, and it now sleeps up to 20 people. In addition there is now a family orientated bedroom / dormitory so we can cater for more varied types of group as well as still providing for our regular group bookings.

The refurbishment project is now complete and with only a few finishing touches to make the Bunkhouse is quickly being booked up. If you would like to stay at Dalehead please contact us either by phone on 01433 670368 or send an email to peakdistrict@nationaltrust.org.uk.

SHIP AND A BOAT

2011-04-10T08:08:00.000+01:00

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A WEASEL AND A STOAT

AND WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SHIP AND A BOAT

A STOAT IS BIGGER THAN A WEASEL, YOU KNOW

BUT HOW DO YOU TELL IT’S NOT OFTEN TOGETHER THEY SHOW

ONE HAS A BLACK TIP AT THE TOP OF ITS TAIL

BUT WHICH ONE IS IT, MY MEMORY DOES FAIL

IN WINTER ONE IS CALLED AN ERMINE, AND DEVELOPS A WHITE COAT

BUT IS IT A WEASEL OR IS IT A STOAT

AND WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SHIP AND A BOAT

ANYWAY WHICHEVER IS WHICH ONE THINGS A FACT

NEITHER OF THEM CAN FLY LIKE A BAT

WONDERFUL WEASEL, STOATLY SUPREME

TOGETHER THEY MAKE UP QUITE A DREAM TEAM

STEVE LINDOP, ESTATE TEAM SUPERVISOR

Keele University bid to take over Peak District!

2011-04-06T15:57:00.000+01:00

Out of the 13 full-time countryside staff in the Dark Peak, there are now 3 graduates from Keele University!

Shane Bates, Senior Warden graduated in Biology and Geology in 1979; Jonathan Leyland, Estate Worker graduated from the same course in 1985; and Kait Jones studied Biology and Maths and graduated in 2003. It is interesting that we all did Biology.

Are there any more Keele graduates out there?

Jonathan Leyland, Estate Worker, Peak District.

Coppice Day, 13th March, Froggatt Wood

2011-03-18T15:47:00.000Z

Coppicing

Last Sunday, Longshaw Estate’s Froggatt Wood was alive with the spirit of days gone by. Woodsmoke drifted through the trees from a charcoal burner, as local adults and children alike grabbed loppers, bowsaws and the odd billhook, and got to work coppicing hazel.

Tour of the Old Lead Smelter

This event, co-hosted with Transitions Hope Valley, had something for everyone. Wardens led guided walks to explain the importance of managing this woodland for wildlife, groups visited an old lead smelter where an archaeologist described the historical importance of the wood for the local community, and children drew pictures with charcoal and played bow and arrows.

Making Charcoal

In a clearing, a tarpaulin covered a tea and cake stall, beside a fire where volunteers and children baked bread.

Up through the coppiced hazel was the green woodworking section, where local craftsmen demonstrated traditional “bodging”, the dying arts of cleaving, wattle hurdle making, hazel weaving, spoon carving, and pole lathe turning. After an overcast start, the day gradually brightened up until, by late afternoon, it felt like we’d witnessed the first day of Spring.

John & Jon turning wood

Working horse from Sheffield Green Estates 'Big Lad'

My role in the Coppice day was “demonstrating” green wood turning on a pole lathe that I’d made over the last few weeks with the help of several of the Longshaw team (thanks Angela, Mike and Chris!) Ably assisted by Jon from the Estate Team and supervised by Andy from the Peak Park footpath team, we got the lathe working with a coppiced hazel pole and had plenty of interest from people of all ages.

It was a relief to see it working since I’d never actually used one before I made it! We had to overcome a few obstacles such as extending the treadle, fixing hinges made from a pair of old leather gloves, and fixing a piece of Sycamore branch as an adjustable handle, but we got there in the end.

All in all it was a great project to work on and hopefully the pole lathe will get a few more outings at events and open days yet to come!

John Mead, Countryside Long Term Volunteer, Dark Peak Estate

Sharn Whaites, Countryside Volunteer, Dark Peak Estate

2011-03-18T13:17:00.000Z

I've been volunteering with the National Trust on The Peak District Estate since September 2009. That September I was fortunate to get a place on a working holiday where myself and 8 others spent a weekend replacing a fence in the Derwent Valley.

That weekend I met National Trust Warden's Andy Houldsworth, Senior Warden Bill Hamer and Careership Warden Alex Sharrod, also on the team was a longterm volunteer Alan.

We all had a great weekend and I was really keen to continue volunteering. I was given encouragement by the team and the information on how to become as a regular volunteer. I couldn't wait to start and I haven't looked back, I have been a regular volunteer on the estate ever since.

I mainly volunteer in and around the Derwent and Snake area but I have also worked at Longshaw, Edale and Kinder.

The work I undertake is varied and no two days are the same. Some of the tasks I have done have ranged from cotton grass planting on Kinder, a great deal of walling and fencing across the estate, the laying and repairing of paths, assisting at the Hayfield Show, Painting, repairing gates, blocking gulley's, tree pruning, planting trees, assisting with the Acorn Camps and walks, maintaining equipment and tools, I've even herded stray sheep, and these are just a few things that I have helped out with!!!

No matter what tasks I do or where I work I have always received a warm welcome by the Trust staff and have always left the day feeling valued by a genuine appreciation for the time I give.

Volunteering for the Trust gives me a lot of satisfaction and it allows me to play a small part in the valuable conservation work done on the Dark Peak Estate.

Sharn Whaites

Gully Blocking - Seal Stones Mar 11

2011-03-17T16:17:00.001Z

Gully Blocking - Seal Stones Mar 11 a photo by PeakDistrictNT on Flickr.

Have Some Free Time On Us at Ilam Park

2011-03-17T15:11:00.000Z

The breath-taking view across to Dovedale from Ilam Park with the Italian Gardens in the foreground.

Enjoy some free time on us this weekend. Visit Ilam Park and enjoy free parking all day on Saturday & Sunday 19th & 20th March 2011. Visit the National Trust Visitor Centre and shop and take a stroll around Ilam Park to discover the renovated zig-zag paths, the mysterious 'Boil Holes' and St. Bertram's Bridge. Explore Hinkley Wood and Paradise Walk before returning to the Manifold Tearoom for delicious, freshly-prepared lunches and cream teas. (Shop & Tearoom open 11am to 5pm)

The more adventurous can use Ilam Park as the base from which to start their walk through Dovedale or the Manifold Valley. Those with a head for heights can head for the top of Thorpe Cloud or Bunster Hill and enjoy spectacular views back over Ilam or north towards Hartington and beyond.

Whether it's a long walk or a stroll and a coffee, you're guaranteed to find something to enjoy in this special corner of the Peak District. And this weekend, it's on us!

Karen Frenkel, Book Signing @ Longshaw Visitor Centre

2011-03-10T13:56:00.000Z

Karen will be at Longshaw from 11am to 2pm on Sunday 3^rd April. She will be signing copies of her book Peak Landscape and Light which is on sale for £16.99.

Fueled By Local People, the Restoration Of Kinder Scout Begins.

2011-03-07T10:28:00.000Z

The National Trust in the Peak District has teamed up with the Biffa Awards Scheme, United Utilities and Natural England’s Environmental Stewardship Scheme to deliver a £2.5 million project to restore Kinder Scout driven by the views of local people. Over a period of 5 years extensive conservation work will be undertaken in order to regenerate vast areas of the bare and degraded blanket peat landscape for the future.

To ensure success of this project a temporary fence will be erected around Kinder Scout to keep sheep, but not people, off the moorland. This will allow the newly planted vegetation to become established, while keeping access to Kinder Scout open for walkers. Consultation for the fence was launched in December 2010 to give local people the chance to have their say on the plans. This included public meetings in Edale and Hayfield, along with feedback via the Kinder Scout website.

Mike Innerdale, General Manager for the National Trust in the Peak District says: “Kinder Scout is loved by thousands of people who live locally or visit the area so it was important to us that those people had the opportunity to play a part in helping us plan the line of the fence and the best access for walkers.” The consultation found that the majority of people were in support of the plans to install the fence whilst the restoration work takes place. The favourite routes of walkers, along with Public Rights of way, were taken into account in order to establish the best access points for walkers in the line of the fence. These access points will be no further than 100m apart and will take the form of a step over stile.

The first phase of the fencing will begin later this month, with work being done by local contractor, Allan Froggatt Fencing. The work will see the fence posts being flown into the remote site by helicopter.

As soon as the fencing is in position, restoration work will start with the planting of 81,000 cotton grass plants to stabilise areas of bare peat and eroding gullies. An additional 39,000 plants will be planted by the end of the summer, with many more over the next few years. In addition to this, heather brash will be spread across large areas of Kinder Scout to encourage heather to re-seed and large numbers of erosion gullies will be blocked each winter to help keep the peat wet and encourage the new vegetation to thrive.

As the moorland vegetation re-establishes, local wildlife will benefit, including priority species such as Skylark, Dunlin and Curlew. In addition to this, the regeneration will help improve water quality by reducing suspended sediments, colour and dissolved organic carbon, which will in turn reduce water treatment costs. Philip Weiss, the new Kinder Scout Catchment Project Officer, said, “This is an exiting partnership and a project where everyone, visitors, water customers and the environment, are winners”.

If you’d like to find out more about the project as it progresses visit www.kinder-scout.co.uk

Feathery Fun at Granby Barn

2011-03-03T16:29:00.000Z

On Thursday the 24^th of February children and adults alike gathered to have some feathery fun at Granby Barn on the Longshaw estate. The beautiful sunny half-term day was a perfect setting for all different activities about birds. The barn was kitted out with all the information you could need on the birds in the surrounding area, to help children, and their parents, to complete the bird quiz. One end on the barn also acted as a bird hide, with binoculars to help to locate the giant birds set up in the landscape outside, as well as the real ones!

For those more practically minded, there were birds feeders to be made from milk cartons and plastic bottles, a great way of recycling and helping birds at the same time! Along with this, to help the birds get ready for the spring, there were bird boxes and nest bundles being made. The children took all of the things they had made home to encourage birds into their gardens.

Setting up inside the barn

In addition to all of this there was a bird walk around Longshaw, led by Warden Mark Bull, for everyone to find out more about the birds in and around the area and where they live. One child in each group had the responsibility of listing all of the birds spotted on the walk, with one grand total coming to 13 different types!

All in all, the beautiful weather and exciting activities made for a great event for all of the family

Kate Skidmore, Vistor Experience Internship

To find another event like this one go to http://peakdistrict.nationaltrust.org.uk/whats-on

Mudlarks at Longshaw 'The Creators'

2011-03-03T16:01:00.000Z

22nd February 2011

Up at the Christmas tree nursery, adjacent to the Moorlands Discovery Centre, four Mudlkarks (Mudlarks Conservation Volunteers) assisted NT Wardens Mark Bull and volunteer Keith to prepare the ground, transplant trees and plant new Blue Spruce and Fraser Fir saplings to replace stock that was sold last Christmas. Saplings are initially planted furthest away from the sales hut and transplanted as they grow slightly larger . Keith turned over the soil where small trees had been dug up with a rotovator and new saplings were planted in their place. When the trees become almost ready for sale they are transplanted close to the Sales Hut, where the public are allowed to go to choose and buy their living tree for Christmas.

Preparation now is the key to a more manageable nursery later when deciding where to plant the trees. By taking the time and using a line to keep straight rows and a measuring cane to get the correct spacing between the trees it will be possible to get round them with a mower to keep the grass down, instead of having the back breaking task of weeding by hand. We took particular care to get the right spacing as we knew the penalty for doing the job wrong! Throughout the year we will revisit the nursery to keep the weeds and grass down and Mark will , every January, prune the trees into that iconic Christmas tree shape. Believe it or not, they don't all naturally grow into the shape of trees you see on Christmas cards.

Christmas tree sales are an important part of Longshaw Estate's annual income, generating just over £20,000 profit from trees grown in the nursery and the larger trees brought to the nursery from other sites in December. The money is used to help fund maintenance of Longshaw Estate and fund other projects to improve the public's experience when visiting the estate.

Martin Gourley, Mudlarks

Mudlarks at Longshaw 'The Destroyers'

2011-03-03T15:59:00.000Z

Tuesday 22^nd Feb, about a dozen Mudlarks emerged from the mist and assembled at Longshaw.

Too many persons for the designated task so the group was split; the creators, planting tree saplings, and the destroyers, to slash and burn rhodos.

I was in the second group and my first task was to light a fire. Unfortunately the twigs were sodden to the core but with paper and a few firelighters, flames were created, apart from singeing my hat, moisture was driven out of the twigs which quickly put the fire out!

Vigorous fanning for about half an hour finally established a fire. Breaking for lunch we resolved some of the country’s problems.

As groups stopped, John pounced engaging them in conversation. Not sure if he was explaining what we were doing or recruiting potential bell ringers but all left smiling.

At the end of the day our task was completed, all the previously cut brash was burnt together with all that we had cut. A satisfactory day at Longshaw concluded.

Keith Saunders, Mudlarks

Rhody Bashing, Park Hall Moor with MNTV, 6/2/11

2011-02-15T09:40:00.000Z

Nine volunteers from MNTV (Manchester National Trust volunteers) turned out and met up with the warden's team in Hayfield. We travelled part way to the work site using NT landrovers due to limited space for parking where we were working.

It was then a short walk onto Park Moor to continue cutting and

burning rhododendron along the edge of a stream where we have worked before.

There had been extensive rain on Saturday and the streams were full, with surface water in erosion channels in the paths as well. As most of the

volunteers were experienced it didn't take long to get them going, with

Shane initially requesting that we clear off the small plants from the

flatter part of the moor.

Once we had done all that were within a

convenient distance of the fire - which the wardens were tending, a few

volunteers continued the cutting process down the slope into the valley.

The rest of the team dragged the cut material up and along to the fire.

We were making good progress and making a visible difference to the

remaining stands of R. ponticum in the valley when a call was received that an access road was collapsing. As the wardens were needed elsewhere we hadto stop and clear up. Alex remained behind to make the fire safe whileeveryone else trooped off to investigate.

On investigation it was found that ground water had caused to the surface of
the drive that the landrovers were parked on to blister, and a vehicle had

broken through the surface into rather fluid mud underneath. We helped

clear an "off road" route around the problem, and eventually went home.

Gordon, Manchester National Trust Volunteers

Skill Sharing Days at Longshaw

2011-02-09T14:58:00.000Z

Today saw the first of the ‘skill sharing’ days at the Longshaw estate. Set up for staff and volunteers, it enables them to experience other aspects of the National Trust’s work in the Peak District, while having the opportunity to walk away with some valuable skills.

Today was a ‘baking day’, with five volunteers, including myself, trying their hand at baking in the kitchens of the Longshaw visitor centre under the watchful eye of Sue, the catering supervisor. All of the cakes and other delicious goodies on sale at Longshaw are made fresh onsite by Sue and her team, so she was the perfect person to help nurture the growing skills of those taking part. Despite the group ranging from novices to those who had baked for themselves for many years, everyone was able to learn something new and five perfect Victoria Sponges and Bakewell Tarts were created.

A brilliant time was had by all and a mornings baking seems especially worth it when topped off with a slice of Victoria Sponge that was made by your own hands! Skill sharing days are a great way to meet new people, learn new skills and understand another aspect of what makes the estate up as a whole. All those who attended were determined to try out the recipes at home, including Dave, our brave novice and only man!

Kate, Visitor Experience Intern

Nature’s heavyweights join forces

2011-02-01T14:00:00.000Z

National Trust and RSPB to manage the
Eastern Moors together

An historic agreement by the National Trust and the RSPB will see the two charities co-managing a piece of land for the first time.

They will manage the Eastern Moors, on the outskirts of Sheffield, which is one of the major gateways to the Peak District National Park, for the next 15 years.

The Moors will still be owned by the Peak District National Park Authority but will be managed by the two charities through the Eastern Moors Partnership.

The National Trust and the RSPB are two of Europe’s biggest conservation charities with a combined membership of over 4.6 million.

The Eastern Moors cover 27 square kilometres on the western edges of Sheffield. It’s an area the size of Chesterfield and comprises five moors; Clod Hall, Leash Fen, Ramsley Moor, Big Moor and Totley Moss. The area also includes the popular walking and climbing areas of Curbar, Froggatt and Birchen Edges and 300 ha of broadleaf woodland.

The National Trust and the RSPB plan to continue to restore internationally important habitats like blanket bog, increase wildlife, including curlews and water voles, and improve access for the hundreds of thousands of people who already visit the site.

The site is currently visited by a quarter of a million people from around the world each year. The Peak District National Park is one of the most visited National Parks in the world.

Fiona Reynolds, National Trust Director General says: “The Eastern Moors is an area of extraordinary natural beauty and an incredibly important habitat for wildlife and an internationally important site for its archaeology. I am delighted that the National Trust and the RSPB are working together to provide some opportunities for people to enjoy this area of countryside and get closer to nature, whether they are climbers, mountain bikers, walkers or simply in need of some spiritual refreshment.”

Mike Clarke, RSPB Chief Executive, says: “People are very proud of the Eastern Moors and rightly so. It’s got it all; it’s a stunning site which offers a great day out for all kinds of visitors and is home to incredible wildlife.

“The Eastern Moors Partnership will be working hard to enhance the current experience that visitors have and will provide new ways for people to enjoy the site. At the same time, we will develop a land management model which will be an example of how uplands can be managed in the future for people and wildlife.”

Jim Dixon, Chief Executive of Peak District National Park Authority, says: “We want the Eastern Moors to remain a superb resource for both wildlife and people, and that’s why I’m pleased that the Authority is entering this unique management partnership with the National Trust and RSPB. We hope that their national strength, working in harness with local communities, can develop the Eastern Moors to their full potential for biodiversity, access, landscape protection and carbon stewardship.”

Other wildlife in the area includes the only adder colony in the Peak District, as well as water voles, golden – ringed dragonflies and one of only two wild red deer herds in the Peak District.

The landscape of the Eastern Moors has been shaped by man over millennia, with evidence of prehistoric activity, medieval routes, post-medieval industry, 19^th century agriculture and World War II activity. Previous archaeological surveys have recorded the largest and most significant group of prehistoric remains known in the Peak District, with exceptional evidence for prehistoric farming, settlement and ritual landscape dating from the late Neolithic to the early Iron Age. Currently an extensive archaeological landscape survey is taking place of the area managed by the Eastern Moors Partnership.

Last year the National Trust and the RSPB, through the Eastern Moors Partnership, organised a series of consultation workshops to hear the views of people about how the Eastern Moors should develop in the coming years. The findings of these workshops, including people’s ideas, their connections with the area and their memories of it have been used to inform the Eastern Moors Vision which will guide the management of the area.

The two charities have recently advertised for new farming tenants, who will graze hardy breeds of cattle. As well as providing sustainable farm incomes, the way they manage the land will deliver a range of public benefits, such as improved water quality, reduced carbon emissions and management of carbon locked up in the peat.

For more information about Eastern Moors visit www.easternmoors.org.uk

OWL OR NINJA

2011-02-01T10:45:00.000Z

A whispering death, that stalks the endless night

Ghostly translucent apparition, reflected by the bright moonlight

In silent poetry, glides swooping down the gentle breeze

Large rounded wings that stirs not even the smallest leaves.

Heart shaped face, in which unblinking eyes stare

Eerie screeching, echoes triumphantly through the air.

As grasping talons, reach and grab their hapless prey,

The first of many ere the break of day.

And be not fooled by its gentle solemnity, in quiet repose

Or think it beautiful, or wondrous as a rose.

An assassin of the shadows, the master of the silent kill

A predator supreme, surpassing all ninja skill.

Steven Lindop, Estate Team Supervisor

Take part in the great outdoors!

2011-01-27T13:39:00.000Z

Spring Event

Here’s a small selection of the many events the National Trust

is putting on in the Peak District during 2011. Come and join in!

B = Booking is essential ‘Wild Child’ Event. School holiday event

Feathery Fun
Thu 24 Feb,
1.30pm – 3.30pm
Longshaw (near Hathersage)
Activities at the new Granby Barn Interpretation Centre.
Build a bird box to take home for an extra £4. Child £3 B

Breakfast with the Birds
Sat 7 May, 6.30am – 10am
Ilam Park (near Ashbourne) Get up with the lark for this guided walk followed by a traditional breakfast. £8 B

Family Countryside Open Days
Sun 29 – Mon 30 May, 11am – 5pm
Dunscar Farm (Castleton) Outdoor activities, games, live music, and countryside displays
(including working dogs). A great day out for the whole family.
Adult £5, child £4, family

Brilliant Bogs & Boggarts
Sun 31 Jul, 10am – 3pm
Longshaw
Celebrate International Bog Day with family fun activities, finding out more about bogs and the
mischievous creatures that live in them. Drop in throughout the day. Meet at the Moorland
Discovery Centre. Child £3

Nature Detectives
Tue 2 Aug, 9 Aug, 16
Aug & 23 Aug, 1.30pm – 3.30pm
Ilam Park
Explore the wonders of summertime wildlife with our great nature trail and hands-on
activities. Meet at the National Trust Learning Centre. Child £3 B

Alport Amble, Upper Derwent Valley
An easy walk through the Alport Valley, taking in some of the stunning scenery at this
spectacular time of year. Meet in Bridge End car park on Derwent Lane. Bring a packed lunch. £2 B

Kitchen Garden Harvest Celebration
Sat 1 Oct, 11am – 3.30pm
Longshaw
Fun, hands-on activities as the Kitchen Garden volunteers celebrate the harvest season.
Meet at the Kitchen Garden behind the Visitor Centre. Dropin event. Activities £2

Winter Trees Walk
Wed 9 Nov, 10.30am – 2.30pm
Ilam Park
An informative walk to identify some of the trees, then a delicious roast dinner with
locally produced beef from one of our farms. Meet at the Learning Centre. Adult £20 B

Contact us to find out more about any of these events, or to book a place:
Tel: 01433 670368
Email: peakdistrict@nationaltrust.org.uk

Snow snow snow!

2010-12-06T15:42:00.000Z

After the heavy snow last week it was a huge team effort to get the Longshaw Estate open for one of it's annual Christmas events this weekend. It was all hands on deck to clear the car park, paths and to shake snow from the hundreds of Christmas trees for sale! The team worked tirelessly to get everything ready through the freezing temperatures.

The estate had a successful weekend selling trees and entertaining families with Christmas decoration and card making.

Join us next weekend (11/12th) for our next Christmas weekend.

Rachel, Visitor Experience Manager

Join us for festive fun at Longshaw and Ilam

2010-12-03T18:35:00.000Z

Robin

Christmas trees at Longshaw
A wide range of Christmas trees will be on sale at Longshaw near Sheffield from 27th November – 22nd December, 10am – 4pm. All the proceeds go back into the vital conservation work undertaken on the estate. The trees are on sale in the Christmas tree nursery next to the Woodcroft car park on the north of the estate (near Fox House). Some of the trees have been grown at the Longshaw Estate and are looked after by a team of volunteers.
Please telephone 01433 631757 for more information.

Christmas weekends at Longshaw
On Saturday 4th – Sunday 5th and Saturday 11th – Sunday 12th December, 10.30am – 4pm there will be family fun at the Moorland Discovery Centre where children can get hands on making seasonal decorations.
Enjoy some Christmas shopping, festive music and meals in the tea room. Make decorations to take home with you for only £2 per item.

Christmas opening hours at Longshaw
Longshaw tea room and Visitor Centre are open weekends and from the 27th December to 3rd January inclusive.

Snow on the lawn

Tasty Treats at Ilam Park
Visit the National Trust’s beautiful Ilam Park, near Ashbourne, this winter for a bracing walk in the grounds and a tasty lunch in the Manifold tea room. There will be a special seasonal menu running from 1st-24th December featuring Christmas favourites. Our shop is also open so don’t struggle with the high street; come and do your Christmas shopping here.

Ilam Park Christmas event
We are also holding a special Christmas opening of the park on Sunday 12th December, 4pm-6pm. There will be music, food, fun activities for children and a chance for grown-ups to do some Christmas shopping. Join us and get in the Christmas mood.

Ilam Park Winter Opening Hours
Mon 1st November to Sun 19th December
Shop: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Tearoom: Saturdays & Sundays only

Christmas – Sun 26th Dec to Mon 3rd Jan
Shop & Tearoom open every day

Opening hours on all above dates are: 11.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
The Visitor Centre is open daily (except Christmas Day) where tea, coffee, hot choc & soup will be available.

Five year restoration to give Kinder Scout a new lease of life

2010-11-29T11:32:00.000Z

NT press release 15 November 2010
The National Trust has secured over £2.5 million to carry out the next stage of major restoration work on Kinder Scout. The project will take place over 5 years starting in 2011 and will see vast areas of the bare and degraded blanket peat landscape restored by gully-blocking, brash spreading and moorland revegetation work. Funding for the Kinder restoration project has been secured from the Biffa Awards Scheme, United Utilities, Natural England’s environmental stewardship funds and the National Trust.
If this restoration project is to be successful a temporary sheep proof fence will be required to allow the newly planted vegetation the opportunity to get established while keeping open access to Kinder Scout for walkers.
Because Kinder Scout is so closely associated with access, the National Trust is launching a public consultation on 1 December to decide on the final location of the temporary fence line and where the access points for walkers should be. Since acquiring Kinder Scout in 1982 the National Trust has already undertaken a lot of restoration work to reverse the legacy of 200 years of environmental and land use pressure. This project is the next phase in the restoration process.
Mike Innerdale, General Manager for the National Trust in the Peak District says: “Kinder Scout is one of the most iconic landscapes in the Peak District because of its vast open moorland, the wildlife that it is home to and because it was the setting for the Mass Trespass. However, it is also one of the most damaged areas of moorland in the UK and it’s future is in jeopardy as a result of catastrophic wildlfires, a long history of overgrazing, air pollution and the routes that thousands of visitors have taken. We’ve decided to take action with our partners to save Kinder for future generations.”
The amount of carbon stored within blanket peat on Kinder Scout is significant and whilst healthy peatlands take in and store carbon, damaged peatlands emit greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Restoring Kinder Scout to a good condition will have a massive bearing on our ability to tackle climate change.
In addition, most upland moorland is the source for drinking water and because the moor is so degraded, the exposed peat gets washed away, finding itself in our water supplies which presents huge water quality and treatment problems for our water providers such as United Utilities who collect water in Kinder Reservoir.
Mike continued: “The temporary fence which will surround the most eroded parts of Kinder is designed to keep sheep – not people – out and give the plants time to take root. It is temporary and there will be multiple access points for walkers. We want people to get involved and tell us where they think the fence line should be and also where they’d like to see the access points.”
Recently, the Moors for the Future partnership has developed some new approaches to moorland restoration that have seen great success in habitat restoration on Bleaklow and the National Trust is keen to learn from this innovative project. However, the project has only been successful because a complete stock exclusion zone was achieved by erecting a fence around the site which allowed plants to re-vegetate and flourish on areas which were previously bare peat.
Through discussions with Natural England, other partners and local farmers, the National Trust has considered various options for achieving stock exclusion including gathering in the sheep via shepherding each week or by erecting a temporary fence around the site.
The outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease in 2001 and the introduction of new stock movement legislation meant that weekly shepherding was no longer an option. Since then, the National Trust has endeavoured to find a way forward, working with Trading Standards, Defra and local farmers but this has proved to be very difficult.
Consequently, the National Trust has now reached the conclusion that the only way to ensure the successful restoration of Kinder Scout in the current environment is to put up temporary fencing, for a maximum period of 15 years, until the revegetation is established. However, the National Trust is continuing to try and find a solution that would prevent the need for the section of the fence which would extend across the plateau of Kinder.
The proposals are that the temporary fence , which would enclose an area of approximately 1374 hectares, would be on the northern side of Kinder from Park Hall Moor to Fair Brook and on the eastern boundary from Fairbrook to Blackden Brook and then possibly across the plateau to Grindsbrook. The western and southern edge of the moor is already stock proof via existing fences and walls. The National Trust owns much of the land but private owners own other parts.
Terry Howard, Chair of the Kinder Advisory Group said: “Whilst there is an ongoing search for other options we may have to accept the need for a fence if no other solution is sufficient. It’s important to know that walkers would still have access, attempts will be made to minimise the visual intrusion and the fence would only be temporary until such a time that Kinder flourishes again. This is a “short term” price to pay for the long term sustainability of Kinder Scout.”
Consultation will take place during December and January and will include public meetings on 15 December (6pm – 9pm) at Edale Village Hall and on 6 January (6pm – 9pm) at the Royal Hotel, Hayfield. From 1 December you can also give feedback and find out more information via our website – www.nationaltrust.org.uk/peakdistrict
Mike Innerdale
General Manager, Peak District

Gully blocking on Kinder

2010-11-15T22:50:00.001Z

The National Trust Dark Peak Estate Team has been busy this year building dams on the Kinder plateau, and this work is being carried out for a number of reasons, as explained below. The aerial photo of Kinder shows the eroded state of the plateau, with large areas of bare peat and a myriad of gullies criss-crossing the whole area.

Gully blocking is the practice of building dams in the gullies to try and slow down the flow of water in the gullies to prevent the valuable peat from being further eroded. The work is being carried out using funding obtained by the Trust from United Utilities, Biffa and Natural England. To date over

Plastic dams on Kinder

1,100 dams have been built on Kinder, most of which have been put in this year. More dams will be built over the next four years.

A number of different materials have been used to build the dams. Where the peat is deep, we are able to knock plastic piling into it to form the dams – these are very good at holding water, which the second picture shows. Holding back the water allows any peat being washed away to settle behind the dams. This also has the effect of raising the water table and therefore preserving the upland bog habitat. Wooden fence dams can also be built to the same effect. If you are walking across Kinder, please take care when you see the dams and pools behind them, as some of them are quite deep.

Where the peat is not deep, or where the gullies have eroded down to the underlying rock, plastic and fence dams cannot be used, so the dams are built with either stone or logs. The third picture shows some log dams built this week, and the snow

Log dams on Kinder

that fell on Monday. These dams are more porous and do not hold as much water, but they do slow the water down enough for peat to be deposited behind them. They may also provide a foothold for vegetation to grow on and behind the dams.

All the materials are flown onto the moor by helicopter, which minimises the damage to the habitat which would be caused by driving machinery onto the moors. The dams are then built by hand, and in all weathers, as the last picture shows! We do have a hut (shed) on the top for us to shelter in if the weather does get bad.

A typical day on kinder!

The gully blocking work, together with the 300,000 cotton grass plants that have been planted, and other work such as spreading heather brash and reseeding work, should help to improve the Kinder plateau for plants and wildlife, and preserve the peat and the habitat for many years to come.

Jonathan Leyland
Estate Worker, Dark Peak

Trekkin'

2010-11-08T14:59:00.000Z

MOUNTAIN DATE: 2010-15:45
SUPERVISORS LOG

On a mountain far, far away, there is a team of Trust workers whose ongoing five year mission is to explore new horizons, build new dams, and continue to walk further than ever. To boldly go where no man has gone before.

To reach out and engage with new contacts, (a sheep with a purple dot walks by.). To continue to suffer the hits to the thumbs with hammers, to keep on falling down rabbit holes, and to keep sliding down steep bank sides. We drive along the steep hill called Derbyshire level, and walk down the marshy hill called Marlow flats, and trudge up to Bleaklow (at least the ‘bleak’s right) not to mention windy corner (was Tom on Robinsons last night?).

Strange universe this Peak District. Anyway its good to get back to the SHB hired vehicle (we couldn’t afford an Enterprise). The vehicle looks like it’s been through an asteroid belt, all scrapes and dents; it will take more than dilithium crystals to put that right. Ah well, as the klingons say “it’s very cold in space’ – well they ought to try Kinder Scout in a full blown gale in February. Now Scotty, five to beam up.

Steve Lindop
Estate Team Supervisor