Peak District Hiking & Foraging Weekend (women only)

A weekend for outdoor-loving lasses to enjoy some of the best walking in the Peak District, as well as learning some valuable skills in the art of foraging! We also have exclusive hire of the local heated outdoor swimming pool to enjoy after our foraging fun on Saturday.

We have everything covered in the price, from food to entertainment, so you can enjoy a worry and stress-free weekend in the company of like-minded folk! See below for all the details.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at the hostel from 5pm - choose a bed, make a cuppa and relax. Introductions from your two leaders for the weekend: Emily and Emma (more about them below!). Dinner at 7pm, followed by an evening of relaxing and getting to know one another before a busy weekend ahead.

Day 2: Saturday will be all about taking it slow, getting curious and reconnecting with nature. Once you've finished your breakfast and you're ready for the day, Emma will guide you through a beginner's foraging workshop. We'll start out at the hostel with a presentation on all the fundamental knowledge you need to start identifying plants safely and sustainably. We'll then head out for a relaxed local walk where Emma will show you how to identify a handful of beginner friendly plants. You'll also have the chance to put your new knowledge into practice and have a go at identifying plants for yourself. Our aim for this workshop is to give you the skills, confidence and resources to start your own foraging journey.

We then aim to have a bit of down time at the hostel, before heading to Hathersage Outdoor Swimming Pool. We have exclusive hire of the whole heated pool from 5-6pm.

After our swim, we'll get back for an evening meal together at the hostel. We could head out for a drink in one of the local pubs if we have any energy left!

Day 3: Sunday is hiking day! Once we have had our breakfast and made a pack-up, we'll head out to the hills. Hathersage village sits below the longest gritstone edge in Britain, with heaps of interesting geology and history to learn from the landscape. Emily will guide us, with Emma's support, on a moderate 8 mile route (approx) to Stanage Edge where we will be spoilt with stunning scenery throughout. With a trig point to bag, a cave to explore and lots of abandoned millstones to find, there is plenty of photo opportunites along the way.

We should complete the hike around 3pm. We can then have a debrief in a local pub (optional) before saying our goodbyes and parting ways.

What's included:

• Accommodation at Hathersage Youth Hostel (we have exclusive hire)
• A foraging workshop
• A guided hike
• Outdoor pool swim session
• 2 qualified Hill and Moorland Leaders to guide you (and prepare your meals!)
• 2 x breakfast
• 2 x lunches
• 2 x evening meals
• Drinks (tea, coffee, cordial)
• Parking at the YHA

What's not included:

• Transport to and from the YHA (there is a train station in Hathersage)
• Alcoholic drinks

Who are your guides?

A bit about Emily:

Hello everyone! I'm a Hill and Moorland Leader and Content Creator based in Glossop at the edge of the Dark Peak. I’ve always been outdoorsy since being a young girl but hiking became a real obsession in 2019 when I started to go solo. I'm a mum of two and as well as enjoying the outdoors with my family, I always make time for my own hikes, runs and swims as they keep me sane! I aim to inspire other women to learn the many benefits of exploring in the outdoors and I’m passionate about sharing my love for nature with you.

A bit about Emma:

Hiya! I’m a Hill & Moorland Leader based in Sheffield. I’ve always loved spending time outside - walking, camping and swimming. My love for the outdoors has grown even more since I started learning about the plants and mushrooms in my local area. Foraging has made me feel more connected to nature, more present and occasionally provides me with free food! I love to share my enthusiasm for everything outdoors and help others take the first small steps to find joy and connection in nature.

About the accommodation:

Based in the picturesque Derbyshire village of Hathersage, the youth hostel is perfectly placed for outdoor enthusiasts! We have exclusive access to the whole hostel for the weekend and we can access everything from the doorstep.

Rated Excellent, this high standard accommodation can sleep up to 41 guests, but with only 30 places available, we will have plenty of room! There are 9 bedrooms with bunkbeds* (two of which are en-suite), 6 bathrooms, lounge area, dining area and kitchen with all cooking appliances and ammenities. We also have a lovely outdoor space to access with picnic tables and lawn. WIFI and bedding are also included, so you'll only need to bring your own towel.

*beds/bedrooms will be on a first come, first served basis. Where possible, we'll do our best to ensure friends can stay together.

Getting there:

The YHA in Hathersage is accessible by car and train. The address is Castleton Rd, Hathersage, Hope Valley S32 1EH (https://maps.app.goo.gl/oBSCFm1rD5Wfob4P8). Parking is free at the venue.

What to bring:

• An overnight bag for 2 nights (more info on this will be sent via email a few weeks beforehand)
• Hiking boots or trainers with good grip
• Rucksack
• A water bottle or bladder (big enough to carry a litre)
• Layers suitable for the time of year
• Waterproofs
• Walking poles (optional)
• A small first aid kit with any personal medications

Safety:

We like to make hikes and courses as enjoyable as possible for everyone, so we keep a slow and steady pace. It's about taking in the views and being in nature, not about rushing to the finish line. Having said that, you are responsible for your own health and safety. If you are unsure as to whether you are fit to attend, please either consult your doctor or let me know your concerns.

Both Emma and Emily hold a Level 3 Outdoor First Aid Certificate so we will be on hand to deal with any emergencies.

Dogs:

I'm afraid dogs are not allowed on this weekend.

Refund Policy:

No refunds. If you can no longer attend you are more than welcome to sell your ticket to someone else but please let me know if you do so.