Another moorland walk from Buxton: Combs Moss
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Here’s a second moorland walk from the town of Buxton! Join us, this time, on a walk from the town to explore a little-known area of moorland named Combs Moss. Local lingo tip: Combs is usually pronounced as “cooms”. This is a moorland plateau that lies between Buxton, to the south, and Chapel-en-le-Frith to the north. Its summit, Combs Head, is 503 metres above sea level and, if the weather is good, there are significant views in all directions.
At the northern tip of the plateau is a prehistoric fort, called Castle Naze. The fort covers 2 acres in extent, and is triangular in shape. There is a defensive rampant, with gateway, on the southeast side and protective rock edges on the other sides. These gritstone rocks are now popular with climbers.
Combs Moss is privately owned, with shooting huts and grouse butts. It is officially designated as "open access" land and there is a permissive path around the edge of the plateau, which this walk follows. The owner of the land is able to specify access restrictions, and no dogs are allowed on the moor.
Buxton is a well-known thermal spa town, and a source of mineral drinking water, nestled in the hills of the Peak District National Park. A town with much Georgian and Victorian architecture, and attractive green spaces, it has a busy programme of music, theatre and other events which attract many visitors.
Today's walk is 9.5 miles / 15 kilometres in length with 590 metres of ascent. Depending on the weather, it could be cold and/or wet on the moor so warm clothing (in layers) and waterproofs are required. It's a challenging walk and much of the path is over grass or bare earth. The ground is extremely wet in places so good boots are a must for this walk, or you will soon have wet feet!
If the event is fully booked, join the wait list as people frequently drop out during the week before an event and you are likely to get a place.
Dogs: the landowner has specified that no dogs are allowed on Combs Moss so, unfortunately, this walk is off-limits for dogs.
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Photo credits: all photos by the event leader with permission granted to ODL for their use.
What to bring
Boots: your most important piece of kit: comfortable, waterproof, breathable and designed for hiking. Trainers may be OK, depending on how rough the ground is and if its dry. Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters. Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions.
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and to body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt), a mid layer (micro-fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (windproof jacket or thick fleece). Trousers: avoid jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, and take ages to dry out. Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry more quickly. On warm days shorts may be ok.
Waterproof jacket: carry one in your rucksack when walking in all but the calmest of weather. Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Hat or cap: useful for staying warm in winter and shaded in summer. Gloves: essential in winter and ideally waterproof.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, this should be comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely.
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter. Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days.
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated. Snacks: a range of biscuits, energy bars, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit (for example) are always good to have. Put them in your rucksack where they are easy to grab.
Water and other fluid: bring between one and two litres, depending on season of the year and temperature. A combination of water, fruit juice, energy drinks and a hot drink is a good idea.
Medicines: essential if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments, etc. A personal first aid kit with hand sanitiser, bandages and paracetamol or ibuprofen (for personal use only) is a good idea.
Food & drink
Bring a packed lunch, snacks for along the way and sufficient fluids (hot or cold) to drink during the walk. A hot drink is recommended in cooler weather.
Buxton has plenty of opportunities for eating and drinking. We may meet up for a drink or a bite to eat in town after the walk. It's a bank holiday weekend so the town may be busy!