This remote farmstead was one of the places where John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, preached his non-conformist doctrine in the 18th century. Every July it is still the scene of an obscure Methodist celebration known as the Love Feast. Instead of the usual communion wine and wafers, the congregation share fruitcake and water from a two-handled Loving Cup, to commemorate the non-conformist tradition.
Alport Castles Farm is also where the socialist and suffragette Hannah Mitchell was born and brought up. Hannah, who received only two weeks formal education, ran away from home and worked in a Manchester clothing sweatshop. She eventually became a city councillor and magistrate. Hannah was also a member of the Independent Labour Party and a prominent speaker alongside Emmeline Pankhurst in the cause of women’s suffrage.
Next, from the farm, follow the unmetalled track which leads down the valley for about a mile towards the A57 Snake Road. Stop where the track meets the road.
This trail was originally created by Roly Smith for the Royal Geographical Society’s Discovering Britain. Thanks are also due to Helen Rawling for editing the walk and to Chris Speight FRGS, CGeog, RGS-IBG Trustee for checking the route and providing feedback.
Roly is a keen walker and the author of over 90 books on the British countryside. He has been recently described as one of Britain’s most knowledgeable countryside writers.
https://www.discoveringbritain.org/activities/east-midlands/walks/alport-castles-walk.html
https://www.owpg.org.uk/member-profiles/rolysmith/