| Kinder Downfall and Mermaids Pool |
Kinder Downfall is the highest waterfall in the county, formed where
the river Kinder meets the edge of the moorland plateaux. Far below the downfall, the dark waters
of Mermaids Pool are reputedly haunted by a water spirit who manifests on the Eve of Easter, perhaps
relating to a time of ancient worship in the area.
Waterfalls and solitary pools were often seen as sacred places in the past, each with their
own guardian creatures. An interesting feature about the waterfall is that on blustery days the
water appears to flow upwards creating a reversal of the natural order, a phenomena that would not
have gone unnoticed to our ancestors.
The origin of the 'Mermaid' legend is obscure, but there are many solitary pools with similar legends and it may date back to before the Roman invasion.
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Folklore suggests that staring into the waters will grant visions of the future, and as is common with many water spirits the 'Mermaid' has a treacherous nature either
granting eternal life or pulling under those who have glimpsed her.
Kinder Scout and the surrounding area has been the scene of many air crashes. Two sabre jets crashed in unexplained circumstances in July 1954 the wreckage can still be seen GR 072902.
The area can be treacherous in poor weather, low cloud can reduce visibility within minutes. Good
clothing and map reading skills are advisable before any moorland venture.
More about the legend can be discovered by clicking  , which has been written by Julie Bunting from the Peakland Heritage site at: www.peaklandheritage.org.uk 
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| Directions: There are a number of footpaths leading into the general area, I would advise consulting OS map no 109 and 110 |
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