Hiking in the UK: Solomon and the Dragon
Distance: 14 miles (22.5 km), Total elevation gain: 664 metres
The name
This hike starts in Buxton in the Southern, flatter region of the Peak District National Park. I had arranged to stay in the town with a friend and, when looking for hikes, the fantastic name of this hike made me want to do it. There is logic to the title – the route passes Solomon Tower and Chrome Hill – also known as the Dragon for its resemblance to the shape of a dragon’s back.
It proved to be a very enjoyable trail to hike, too. The skies were largely clear and, as it was a weekday, we had the trail largely to ourselves.
Solomon
We walked from the centre of Buxton to the edge of town, before the path rises through a small patch of forest, then onto grassy fields. The first stop of note was Solomon’s Temple – a small, round, stone fort overlooking Buxton and its surroundings.
The trail cuts across rolling green hills, weaves through meadows, over streams, and along country lanes. The first half of the hike had mostly subtle inclines, with modest views. And the trail took us far enough away from town and busy roads to feel like we were away from civilisation and immersed in nature.
A walk a day…
Along the way, we encountered a local man in his 70s and we walked together for a while. He told us he lives in Buxton for six months a year, then for the other half of the year he travels around the world – living the dream. He also told us when he’s in the Peak District he gets out every day for a walk. He seemed active and content – making him a great advertisement for hiking, travelling, and getting out in nature.
Just over halfway through our walk – around 7 miles in – we approached ‘The Dragon’ from the West. The trail passed south of it, giving us an unobstructed view of the large mound that climbs out of the ground, before we ascended it from the East.
The Dragon
The Dragon was the first steep climb of the day, as we passed up the spine of the hill. The views from the top were far-reaching on this clear day, across the fields and hills. We descended on the far side on a rocky pathway, and began to head north, back to Buxton.
There were several more short, steep inclines to follow the Dragon. Though, after those, the remainder of the trail was mostly gentle inclines and declines to Buxton.
We were clocking up the miles, and under the sun, it became a decent test of endurance. I think the best hikes require a good amount of physical exertion – for that feeling of pushing yourself, as well as reaching more remote, scenic spots.
The return
We had one scary moment on the return leg of the hike. We may have strayed slightly from the designated route and, in doing so, found ourselves in a field full of cows. Plus, a large bull. Fortunately, we spotted it from a distance and took a detour across the taller, rough grass, and clambered over the wire fence. I’m usually fine walking by cows, but I wouldn’t risk a bull.
The walk was a relaxing and satisfying experience – we covered a decent distance without overexerting ourselves. I would describe the views in this as area as splendid rather than spectacular, and the landscape as pleasant rather than beautiful. But appreciated no less. We were fortunate to avoid the rain, and were blessed with clear views, which isn’t always the case in the Peak District. All in all, it was a lovely walk through peaceful, green scenery.
