The Grade 1 Scrambler

Scrambling Ashway Clough above Dove Stone Reservoir in the north-west Peak District.  Summary verdict: OK at the beginning but degenerates into continuous slithering that’s a real bore

Route in: park at Binn Green CP or nearby lay-by on A635 above Yeoman Hey dam, then walk across the dam wall and up beside the Ashway Gap spillway (alternative start point at Dove Stone CP)

Start point: where Ashway Brook flows into the pool at the top of the spillway at OS ref SE 02742 04279

Grading: there are a couple of grade 0.75 falls near the start and the rest is grade 0.5

Notes: the brook is not named on maps

End point: just before the main clough meets the path that runs along the top of the moor around OS ref SE 03180 03877

Route out: walk north a short way and then follow the path that curves down the hillside to Yeoman Hey dam wall

Time: 30 mins from CP to start point; c.50 mins up the clough; then about 40 mins to walk back

Combine with: Birchen Clough or any of the scrambles along or beside Chew Brook

Gear: dry bag probably, wetsuit only on colder days, buoyancy vest and helmet not needed

Verdict: began quite well with the first two falls but became increasingly exasperating and tedious given the lack of grip on the rocks; the various side scrambles don’t offer anything of value; not recommended

Category: Lower-Rated Scramble

Score: 4/10

Video guide:

Map:

Map image/data from OpenStreetMap