Discovering Kinder Scout: Creativity, Folklore and the Story of Heath & Mud
Updated: Oct 31
What happens when you step off a train at Edale and ask, "How do I get to the countryside?"
For writer, artist and creator of Heath & Mud, Sarah Calcutt, that simple question sparked a lifelong relationship with Kinder Scout and the Peak District – one that would lead her into walking, folklore, history, printmaking and a whole new creative world.
In this episode of Wild About Kinder, I caught up with Sarah on Kinder Scout to hear the story of how a chance visit to the area became something much more significant. We talk about her favourite places on the plateau, including the mysterious Aztec Rock, and why she loves exploring the less-travelled corners of this remarkable landscape.
Our conversation also explores the stories hidden in the landscape, from curious place names to ancient folklore, and the way that walking can open up unexpected creative possibilities. Sarah explains how discovering a lino-cut printing kit in a drawer eventually led to the creation of Heath & Mud, an independent Peak District zine celebrating landscape, history, walking and creativity.
What began as a personal creative project has grown into a wonderful community, bringing together artists, photographers and writers while raising thousands of pounds for local conservation and community causes.
I particularly enjoyed hearing Sarah's philosophy of simply having a go. There's something lovely about the way her curiosity about Kinder Scout has developed into so many different interests and opportunities. It also reminded me that you don't have to be an expert or have everything figured out to start exploring something new.
We also discuss the importance of accessible paths and how making the countryside easier to reach can help more people discover a love of the outdoors. Kinder Scout is often celebrated as the People's Hill, and Sarah's reflections offer an interesting perspective on what that means.
As Sarah puts it:
"Kinder Scout offered me something that I didn't even really know I was looking for."
It's a conversation about creativity, curiosity and belonging, and a reminder that even after years of exploring, Kinder Scout always has something new to reveal.
About Sarah Calcutt
Sarah Calcutt is the creator and editor of Heath & Mud, an independent Peak District zine celebrating walking, landscape, folklore, history and creativity.
Combining writing and linocut printmaking with contributions from artists, photographers and writers, Sarah has developed Heath & Mud into a growing creative community. The project has already donated thousands of pounds to Peak District conservation and community organisations, including Edale Mountain Rescue Team and Landscape Trees.
You can discover more about Sarah's work and explore the different editions of Heath & Mud through the links below.
Listen to Wild About Kinder
Listen to the full conversation with Sarah Calcutt in the latest episode of Wild About Kinder. You can find it in your preferred podcast app or listen using the player below.
References and further reading
A few of the places, projects and publications we mention during our conversation:
Haddon Hall – a historic Peak District house with a fascinating past.
Edale Mountain Rescue Team – the volunteer team supporting walkers and visitors across the Peak District.
Landscape Trees – a charity working to restore native trees and woodland across the White Peak.
Weird Walk – a beautifully produced walking zine exploring folklore, history and curious landscapes.
The South Yorkshire Moors by Christopher Goddard – a guide to the landscapes, history and folklore of the eastern Dark Peak.
Find out more about Heath & Mud
Explore the zine and discover its latest editions:
Get involved with the conversation
Have your own stories about Kinder Scout? I'd love to hear them.
Send in your own Kinder Scout stories through the Wild About Kinder website and get in touch with the show host with your comments, questions and suggestions.
You can also subscribe to the Wild About Kinder newsletter to keep up with new episodes and contribute to the conversation.
Share your favourite episodes by tagging @about.the.adventure on Instagram and using the hashtag #WildAboutKinder.
Recording date: This interview was recorded on Kinder Scout, 14th May 2026.
Host & Production: Sarah Lister, About The Adventure.
Contact: You can email sarah@sarahventurer.com with your comments and suggestions.
