White Peak Walks Vol 2 Southern Dales

The southern part of Mark Richards' Peak District “trilogy” covers the area south of Youlgreave and Bakewell. 30 routes in the Peak District National Park up to 10 miles long. Mark Richards’ style owes much to Wainwright, but here he proves equal to the master.

'The first volume of Mark Richards’ Peakland trilogy – High Peak Walks – was published in 1982. The second volume – the stylish White Peak Walks: The Northern Dales – followed three years later. Now, after a similar timespan, the series is concluded with this 276 page epic describing 30 short, circular walks in the south of the national park.
    The majority, as you might expect, are centred upon the Dove valley and its tributary dales, particularly on Dovedale itself, which is explored most intimately. The High Peak and Tissington trails and the little frequented hills in the far south west also feature strongly. The artistic presentation of sketch maps, line drawings and text is on a par with its companions. And not only is the new guide beautifully drawn, it is superbly written. I think this is the only short walks guide I’ve ever come across that I’ve actually enjoyed reading cover to cover like a book.
    Whether it is before you set out, or in retrospect, it is as interesting and entertaining to read at home as it is practical and informative outdoors. Only don’t try and combine the two. The other day I became so engrossed in reading about, and at the same time looking at, a particular section of drystone wall I walked into a recumbent cow. Thankfully the dog was the only witness!
    This outstanding trilogy is already established at the top of the Peakland range. It will never be bettered, so my advice is to start collecting now. You won’t regret it.
(TGO November 1988)