A Great Double Dyke

Two parallel earthwork banks stretch across the Derbyshire landscape, remnants of an ancient boundary system that once marked territorial divisions in this part of the Peak District. The dykes run roughly north to south, and while the name might raise a few eyebrows, this is serious archaeology - likely dating from the medieval period or earlier.

Walking between the two embankments gives you a proper sense of the scale these early engineers achieved. The banks stand several feet high in places, though centuries of weathering and farming have softened their edges considerably. History enthusiasts will appreciate the effort involved in creating such a substantial earthwork without modern machinery.

This isn't a manicured tourist attraction with interpretation boards, so come prepared to use your imagination. The site works best as part of a longer walk through the countryside around Bakewell, rather than a destination in its own right. Families might find it lacks the wow factor to hold children's attention for long.

Access appears to be free, following typical rights of way across agricultural land. If you're staying at one of the nearby sites like Chatsworth Park Caravan Club or Greenhills Holiday Park, it makes for a decent morning's exploration before heading into Bakewell for lunch. Just don't expect dramatic ruins - this is subtle landscape archaeology that rewards the observant walker.