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Main Instructor:

Click to View: WALX Derwent and Dales Instructor Page

Hosted By:

Sam Armstrong

Walk Description:

This route begins at Flash Bar Café on the edge of Flash, the highest village in Britain, making it a fitting place to start. It’s an easy spot to meet up for breakfast or to go for lunch afterwards. Let Sam know your preferences as she may have to book. 

The true spring of the River Manifold lies on privately owned land, tucked just beyond reach, but this walk leads you close to the headwaters via a public footpath later in the route. The surrounding ground is rich in small seepages, giving a real sense of where the river gathers itself before flowing south.

From the café, the path rises steadily towards Oliver Hill, opening out to wide views across the moors. The route then swings through Flash village and onwards to Wildstone Rock and Wilson Knowl, each offering a different angle on the high country. A quiet stretch of the Manifold Trail follows, guiding you through gentle upland scenery before the track turns north and loops back towards the start.

There’s usually time at the end for tea, cake or lunch at the café, making it an easy, satisfying day out. At 10 km, this walk is shorter than many river-source routes, but still captures the charm of the Manifold’s birthplace.

Distance: 10km/ 6 miles

Gradients:  Ascent 344 m

Duration: Approx. 3 hours

Grade: Moderate

You are asked to contact your WALX Guide by phone, leaving a voicemail or sending an SMS text to the number listed below, if you are likely to be delayed. Whilst we do understand that sometimes it is not possible to make a class, please be aware that we do operate a no refund policy if you give us less than 12 hours’ notice. 

Location Notes:

Flash Bar or if full, try the layby at the junction of the Leek road and Brown lane ///hesitate.throwaway.prosper Or park in Flash, as some households allow you to park in their drive for a fee of £5.