Читать книгу Short walks in the Peak District - Collins Maps - Страница 10

The Peak District National Park was designated in 1951 and extends over 542 square miles (1404 sq.km). Divided into two uniquely different zones, with wild gritstone moors to the north and gentler limestone uplands and dales to the south, it is surrounded by millions of people living in the industrial areas of England. Due to the advent of motorways the Peak is accessible to the bulk of the population in under two hours. The Peak District was the first National Park and is the most visited.

Administration of the park is controlled by a committee composed, on a proportional basis of representatives of the surrounding County, City, District and Borough Councils as well as members appointed by the Secretary of State for the Environment (Defra).

One of the statutory functions of a Park Authority is the appointment of full-time and voluntary Park Rangers. These are people with particular knowledge of some aspects of the local environment who are available to give help and advice to visitors. Other functions of the Ranger Service include giving assistance to local farmers in such matters as rebuilding damaged walls to prevent stock from straying and leading guided walks from one of the Information Centres. Permanent Information Centres open all year are based at Edale, Castleton, Bakewell and Fairholmes. There are other information centres throughout the National Park.

One of the first tasks the Peak District National Park set itself after its formation in 1951 was to negotiate access agreements. These were not always straightforward but, by careful and diplomatic negotiation, agreements have been reached with farmers and landowners giving free access to most of the high moors of the Dark Peak. Large parts of moorland, including Kinder Scout, are open to unrestricted walking and rock climbing apart from a few days in summer when sections of the moors are closed for grouse shooting. To check moorland closures check with PDNPA, Aldern House, Baslow Road, Bakewell DE45 1AE. Tel: (01629) 816200. email customer.service@peakdistrict.gov.uk

The Moorland Centre at Fieldhead, Edale S33 7ZA has an interactive exhibition based on a moorland theme, including Kinder Scout and the Pennine Way. The building is roofed with sedum turf and has an attractive indoor waterfall.