Again, just over an hour from home, we parked at Fairholmes at the northern end of Ladybower; there's car parking, public toilets, cafe, and the Upper Derwent Visitor Centre.
We set off around the northern tip of the reservoir, walking along the front of the impressive Derwent Dam.
After this we headed south along the eastern side of Ladybower. The paths along this side are well made and suitable for cycling as well as walking, which took us through some lovely bluebell woods.
We stopped off for our picnic not too far from Ashopton Viaduct, which gave us some great views up and down the valley.
After crossing the bridge (it's a road bridge, carrying the A57 so not the most picturesque part of the walk!) we headed back up the western side of the reservoir.
The paths on this side of Ladybower little more uneven but, in my opinion, it's a much nicer walk; it takes you through open areas, with fantastic views across to Derwent Edge, and through beautiful wooded areas.
The boys were really starting to flag ("are we nearly back to the car yet?") but they did amazingly well, over 6 miles in all! We treated them to a little something from the cafe kiosk...watch out if you do the same, you will have to fend off the ducks whilst you're eating!
We were all tired out by the end but we all had a great time; with so many different walk around this area, I imagine we'll be back again a some point soon.
