O is for Oker Hill

Sneaking in another favourite today before the daily grind of work beckons!

We enjoyed a stroll from Matlock following the River Derwent before heading up through the pretty hamlet of Oaker and on to Oker Hill.

Thought to be the site of an ancient Roman hill fort, the hill is more widely known for its reference in a sonnet by Wordsworth (A Tradition of Oker Hill in Darley Dale, Derbyshire, 1829) about two brothers who planted two trees when they went their separate ways in life. Despite one being replanted only one tree stands atop the hill today.

The trig is well worth a visit as you get 360° views of the Derwent Valley and, if you're lucky, can spot the Peak Rail steam locomotive chugging along the Peak Valley line.

We looped back via The Plough enjoying a refreshing pint before heading up and over Hackney to return to our start.