Situated near the National Trust's Longshaw Estate, Padley Gorge is a place of rare beauty that is often overlooked.
The name Padley comes either from the clearing (leah) belonging to Padda or the clearing frequented by toads (paddle).
As Burbage Brook makes its way south to join the River Derwent at Grindleford it rushes through this steep-sided valley surrounded by atmospheric and indigenous oak woodland - a rare survival from ancient times.
During the autumn season, the woodland is transformed into an explosion of orange and brown and there are countless examples of weird and wonderful fungi that can be found on the woodland floor and on the trees.
The most popular way to walk through Padley Gorge is by taking the Padley Gorge Trail. The public footpath can be reached from the B6521 opposite the bus stop outside Granby Discovery Barn, or you can make the walk a little longer by parking at Surprise View car park and passing by Owler Tor, before joining the trail.
If you want to walk from the south, the trail begins just above Grindleford Station.
Above: The start of the Padley Gorge Trail from the B6521
Above: The Padley Gorge Trail from Grindleford Station begins on a footpath just to the right of this image.
The area around Padley Gorge is undoubtedly the most popular areas for the members of our Derbyshire and Peak District Walks facebook group.
To see more walk routes and videos about the location join the group and search for the #padleygorge hashtag or for more seasonal photos, click the '#autumn hashtag
Below are some of the fantastic photos uploaded by some of our group members.
