Wall-to-wall excitement

Criss-crossed by formidable drystone walls, the High Peak Harriers’ scenic country provides a day out with an exhilarating difference

- William Cursham

I'VE GOT a broken shoulder and a broken wrist, we moved into kennels at 6pm yesterday and there is still stock out everywhere," Andrew German, huntsman to the High Peak Harriers, told me when I arrived at their new kennels one bright November morning. It occurred to me that this was not the best preparation for the Hunt's Opening Meet of 2023. Yet one should never underestimate hunting folk when it comes to pulling sporting rabbits out of a hat, and my day with the High Peak Harriers proved to be an object lesson in how to produce great sport against the odds.

Just arriving at the High Peak's kennels at Smerrill Moor is enough to fill you with hope. Nestled in the heart of the Peak District between Matlock and Buxton, with sweeping views of the magnificent limestone landscape that makes up the 'high peak, this is the new home of 19-and-a-half couple of stud-book harriers. "Our previous kennels were in Bakewell but with an expanding rugby club, a school and new housing development next door, it was becoming too busy and it was time to move," explained Joint Master Elizabeth Andrews, who also acts as Hunt chairman. So, in July 2023, the High Peak Harriers decided to sell their old kennels and relocate to the new ones at Smerrill Barn, initially leasing them but with a view to ultimately buying.

This move marks a brave new chapter in the Hunt's long and rich history. The High Peak Harriers have graced the hills and dales of the Peak District since 1848 and became famous for two things: their hounds, which have always been stud-book harriers, and the formidable limestone walls that mounted followers have to tackle when crossing the country.