There’s nothing quite like a big dose of fresh air to bring things back in order.
Us Yorkshire folk are seriously blessed to live so close to the Peak District and all its rolling hills.
The walk we’re bringing you today is something a little different, and looks like it’s been lifted straight from a Lord of the Rings set, reports The Manc.
The focal point of this Peak District stroll is Lud’s Church, a deep, almost eerie chasm in the heart of the woodland near Gradbach.
Image: Wikicommons
The chasm itself was caused by a landslip, and over the ages the walls have been covered in bright green moss.
The base of the 18-metre deep gorge has been lined with steps and boards so that visitors can stroll right through it.
You’ll notice the temperature drop suddenly as you walk down, and a strange dampness and darkness will greet you.
It’s not hard to imagine you’ve blinked and been transported to Middle Earth.
There are myths aplenty shrouding this area – one tale says that Robin Hood and Friar Tuck hid from the authorities in Lud’s Church.
Others say the chasm was actually created by the devil’s fingernail as he dug through the earth.
Image: Pixabay
The landmark was historically used as a place of worship in the 15th Century.
Lud’s Church is, however, only around 100m long, so while it’s awe-inspiring, you might want to extend your walk to see what else the area has to offer.
A short distance away is The Roaches, a rocky ridge with staggering views of the surrounding countryside.
There’s loads of wildlife to spot too, including grouse, buzzards and sparrowhawks.
If you take on the walk in late summer, you’re treated to miles of bright purple heather – but it’s pretty special all year round.
Countryfile has pulled together this six-mile circular to try.
Feature Image- Wikipedia Commons
The Sheff
The very best record shops in and around Sheffield city centre
Our record shops, just like the actual vinyl you're after buying, come in all shapes and sizes, stocking everything from holy grail albums to new spins that you need in your collection.
Whatever genre you're searching for, this South Yorkshire city and its array of record shops are sure to have you covered, and you can even refresh your wardrobe in some of them.
9 of the best record shops in and around Sheffield city centre
This place has everything you could possibly think of, including all the latest standout releases like Don't Be Dumb by A$AP Rocky and West End Girl by Lily Allen.
As well as a huge range of LPs, there's a wide variety of books all surrounding different music subcultures like Punk, Grime and Dance.
And of course, a moment of appreciation for Bear Tree Records and its Britney Spears 'Hit Me Baby One More Time' skateboard - iconic.
Where to find: Unit 13, The Forum, 16, 127 Devonshire St, Sheffield S3 7SB
If you couldn't tell by that window arrangement, this next spot is very rock-focused with the likes of Pink Floyd, Meat Loaf and Rage Against the Machine adorning its shopfront.
You can get your hands on some of the latest LPs as well as some pre-loved gems - you can delve into some classics or even expand your music knowledge with their vast display of records from the past.
It's also right next door to Tamper Coffee, which means you can grab your caffeine and vinyl fix at the same time, all within a two-minute walk.
Where to find: 137A Arundel St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2NU
Record Collector
Credit: The Manc Group
We couldn't reel off notable record shops in Sheffield without mentioning this staple institution, which has been serving the music lovers of this South Yorkshire city since 1978.
Just like our very own music counterpart Audio North, the owner of Record Collector, Barry, spotlights up-and-coming talent, giving them pride of place in his shop displays.
If you're ever planning a day trip to Sheffield, you'll probably need to book a weekend, as this shop in itself will have you transfixed with its huge range of musical releases.
Where to find: 233 Fulwood Rd, Sheffield S10 3BA
Waxhead Records
Credit: The Manc Group
Inside Arundel Emporium is this beauty of a record shop, which formerly went by the name Music Junkie, before re-establishing itself as Waxhead Records.
No matter what name this shop goes by, one thing will always stay the same, and that's this record shop's dedication to proper good vinyl.
Check out those phenomenal albums on display by the likes of music greats: Ms Lauryn Hill, Amy Winehouse, Joni Mitchell - obviously Arctic Monkeys are up there too.
Where to find: First Floor, 16 Matilda St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 4QD
Kelham Island Books and Music
Credit: The Manc Group
Known for being Sheffield's largest second-hand bookshop, this place prides itself on its love for physical media.
Every inch of this shop floor is home to books, magazines, records, CDs and more, meaning you're sure to find something you'll enjoy.
Situated at Shalesmoor and close to Kelham Island, get ready to step back in time and browse plenty of vintage and preloved items that are waiting to spark interest and joy with the next person who picks them up.
Just a stone's throw away from Sheffield city centre is Tallbird Records, which we simply couldn't leave out, as they're top class.
They're Chesterfield's longest-running independent record shop, stocking all things music for over a decade, opening back in 2013.
Like all of the record shops mentioned above, this vinyl vendor prides itself on having a friendly team and a vast selection of LPs - they've even got K-Pop Demon Hunters.
Where to find: 10 Soresby St, Chesterfield S40 1JN
Last but not least, we'll end with one final honourable mention that feels like a fitting venue not just on Record Store Day but all year-round...
In The Making – A brand-new marketplace with more than 100 independent businesses inside is opening in Sheffield
Daisy Jackson
Sheffield is set to gain a brand-new marketplace in just a few weeks' time, with In The Making gearing up to open.
The new opening is set to shake-up Sheff's already-excellent independent retail scene, packing a whopping 100 local businesses inside its walls.
In The Making will provide a platform to dozens of local makers, artists, creators, and producers - and create an exciting new shopping destination for the rest of us.
The team behind the project had initially set their sites on Fox Valley for the marketplace, but are now instead moving into Orchard Square.
According to the hoardings that have appeared in the windows, this is set to be a 'carefully curated gift shop' with hundreds of items from independent makers inside.
Expect everything from art and jewellery to candles and coffee inside the space.
In The Making will be opened by Ellie (aka Lass Paints), her mum Lindsay, and Lindsay's best friend Anita.
They wrote: "Between us, we’ve done a bit of everything, from design and illustration to running small businesses, markets and events. We’ve seen just how much amazing talent there is around here and wanted to bring it all together under one roof.
In The Making signs have appeared at Orchard Square
"We’re here to champion independent makers! This isn’t about stepping on toes or doing things bigger and louder. It’s about supporting, uplifting and helping brilliant makers get their work out into the world.
"Our goal is to create a beautiful, welcoming hub full of thoughtful, well-made, joy-sparking things, and a space that feels warm, supportive and genuinely good to be part of, whether you’re a maker or just popping in for a browse.
"We can’t wait to welcome you in and build something special together"
You can see the full list of traders moving into In The Making HERE.
Clementine Hall -
1st August 2025 
