The Castleton Area, Derbyshire

Geologists’ Association Guide No 56

By Trevor D Ford

This is another of GA’s guides, this time to the geology and geomorphology of the popular holiday destination of the Castleton Area in Derbyshire. I love this area and have visited there both for the geology and the beautiful scenery. (The castle at Castleton is also worth a visit.)

The Castleton Area, Derbyshire summarises both geological and geomorphological to be seen in a set of four day’s walk around the Castleton area features (including the many caves in the area, many of which can be visited).

The itineraries are intended to be taken on foot, although some of them can be shortened by meeting transport en route. Much of the land crossed is in the care of the National Trust and much is scheduled as a SSSI. Although hammering is not allowed, much detail of the limestone lithofacies can be seen on weathered surfaces and in scree (where fossils can also be seen).

As is always the case with GA guides, this one covers the general geology and geomorphology, and then goes on to cover four itineraries. In particular, these cover:

• Odin Mine, Mam Tor, Windy Knoll and Treak Cliff.
• Cowlow, Speedwell Cavern, Winnats Pass, New Rake and Peak Cavern.
• Cave Dale, Black Tor, Mam Tor and Blue John Cavern.
• Losehill, Black Tor, Mam Tor and Blue John Cavern.

I have used this guide to explore these areas, which are well worth visiting, merely for the stunning walks they provide. If you can get hold of a copy, this guide is a useful and interesting addition to any holiday in the Peak District.

Trevor Ford also wrote Derbyshire Blue John after retiring as a Senior Lecturer in Geology at the University of Leicester. He is now sadly deceased.

The Castleton Area, Derbyshire, Guide No 56, Guide No 56, by Trevor D Ford, The Geologists’ Association, London (1996, reprinted in 2000), 94 pages (paperback), ISBN: 090071798X