The hills, valleys, crags and caves of the White Peak hold many secrets. Shadows move in dark corners, deep caves echo only to the sounds of water disappearing into the depths to emerge who knows where.

We’ve already spoken in these pages of the mysterious and terrifying Black Harry, the ghost of a highwayman who still patrols the lanes above Stoney Middleton – awaiting a late night wanderer, or a night rider tensely following a pool of light in front of them, fearful of looking behind scared they may see the spectral outlaw on their tail.

But emerging from Black Harry Gate, another terror may confront you.

Rising, steep over the valley, the towering cliffs of Middleton Dale form a deep and imposing valley. Beneath them, labyrinthine caves disappear dark underground. Though popular with climbers, it may not be one of these you see atop the tallest clifftop in the valley.

No, you might just spot the ghost of Hannah Baddeley.

It was 1762 and jilted by her lover William Barnsley at just 24 year old, Hannah ran to the top of the cliff distraught, and seeing no future without his love, she threw herself into the abyss. Fate had other plans, however, and a gust of wind caught Hannah’s long flowing dress, and she floated gently down to the valley below. She suffered only cuts and bruises, but died just two years later.

Her story does not end there though.

It is said that the ghostly form of Hannah can still be seen pining for her love at the top of the cliff, before taking her fateful leap once again.

So as you ride down the bridleway by Darlton Quarry dare yourself to look up, and should you see a young girl in a flowing dress standing silhouetted, spare a thought for the poor Hannah – destined to live an eternity in heartbreak.

Happy Halloween…