The February day I chose for this milestone walk was crisp and invigorating, with winter sunshine breaking through thin clouds. The weather was perfectly balanced – cold enough to keep the paths firm and dry, but not so cold as to be uncomfortable. This is Peak District weather at its finest.

I approached the rocks via the well-maintained paths that wind through this popular recreation area. The routes here are accessible and paved in many sections, making them ideal for steady, contemplative walking. The location is popular with climbers who scale the rock faces, but the walking paths remain gentle and suitable for all abilities.

The Black Rocks themselves are spectacular – dark gritstone formations weathered into fantastic shapes, creating a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. The rocks rise to about 15 meters high in places, their rough surfaces textured by millions of years of geological processes. They serve as a powerful reminder of the deep time underlying all our temporary human journeys.