The Lightwood Eco Area Walk begins just a short stroll from our Victorian property, offering an accessible escape into nature right from the doorstep. Turn left at the end of the pathway and left on to Lightwood Road until it transforms into a charming country track. This tranquil pathway leads you into a stunning region that was once home to reservoirs supplying drinking water to Buxton residents, now repurposed as a vital habitat for local wildlife.

This diverse ecosystem comprises woodland, wetlands, meadows and a moorland fringe. It’s an ideal location for a leisurely wander, allowing ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene natural surroundings. This small valley on the slopes of Combs Moss, where two reservoirs were built in the mid-1800s, adds captivating historical context to your walk, offering glimpses into the area’s rich heritage.

The route presents a relatively level walk through the centre of the site, meandering around peaceful ponds and alongside a gentle brook in the old spillway. This dog-friendly stroll invites you to bring along your four-legged friends although it is advisable to keep them on a lead. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, numerous steep slopes await exploration and you can even ascend and do a longer walk around Combs Moss. Combs Moss is reached by heading through a gate at the top of the hillside but the land is privately owned and designated as “open access” land. There is a permissive path around the edge of the moorland plateau but the landowner has specified that no dogs are allowed on the moor. Water proofs and good walking boots are essential if you plan to walk Combs Moss as it does get extremely boggy. See Combs Moss Walk