The Roaches and Lud’s Church are striking landmarks in the Staffordshire Peak District, just a 20-minute drive from Wellwood Lodge. This area offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and intriguing history, making it an ideal destination for those staying in our Victorian property,

The Roaches is a prominent rocky ridge rising to an impressive 505 metres, offering breathtaking views over Tittesworth Reservoir. This dramatic landscape extends from the distinctive Hen Cloud in the south to the Back Forest and Hanging Stone in the northwest. At the top of The Roaches, visitors will discover Doxey Pool, a small, mysterious body of water enveloped in local legend. It is said that a water spirit inhabits this pool, adding an element of myth to the rugged beauty of the scene.

This captivating area is famed for its numerous walking trails, making it a haven for both rock climbers and casual walkers seeking adventure and serenity in equal measure. The connection to historical tales continues with Lud’s Church, a deep, moss-covered chasm approximately 18 metres deep. Rich in myth and mystery, Lud’s Church is cloaked in a dark green hue, where sunlight filters through only faintly, adding to its otherworldly atmosphere. This geological marvel was historically used as a secret place for worship in the 15th century by people who risked persecution for their beliefs. Accessible via The Roaches and the Back Forest, as well as through Gradbach, it beckons those interested in both natural wonders and historical intrigue.

I have done a variety of walks in this area and include my route maps of the walks