The Walking Group

Tuesday 16th September 2025. Ticknall through Calke, led by Christine

The planned Horseshoe Trail was abandoned as Foremark Reservoir carpark was closed due to a fallen tree. The cars all did an about turn to Ticknall and the Staff of Life where we started our walk slightly later than usual.

We walked through Ticknall towards the Lime Yards and then joined the tramway trail which we followed into Calke and followed the National Forest Way signs back into Ticknall and lunch at the Staff of Life. The walk was 7 miles in total. We shall attempt the Horseshoe Trail walk in November.

Tuesday 2nd September 2025. Ticknall to Foremark, led by Christine

18 of us gathered at the Staff of Life, Ticknall. We walked towards Ticknall Church and headed towards the Hangman’s stone . We then headed towards the saw mills at Wilton. Following a path we reached Foremark church with lovely views across the valley. After a short break we walked along the River Trent and passed the anchor church caves besides the Old River Trent ( The course of the river was altered). With views over the Trent valley we walked into Ingleby. We followed the footpath towards Stanton Wood and arriving back at The Staff of Life for a well earned meal. A total of 7. 6 miles.

Tuesday 19th August 2025. Monsal Head, led by Val

13 of us met in the car park just north of Ashford in the Water. Leaving there we climbed up a steep hillside, which was in some places rocky and other times a narrow gravelly track, contouring around the steep slope, from there we descended steadily to the River Wye and onwards to the river bridge in Ashford, where we stopped for a drink.

Then onwards and upwards out of Ashford and through the stone walled field paths to the rim of Monsal Head, we stopped here for our picnic with views of the valley below.

Continuing on by walking down the steep path to the Monsal railway viaduct. Once across it we turned to walk along the river valley back to the car park.

Tuesday 5th August 2025. Dovedale, led by David

10 members of the group arrived safely at the National Trust Car Park at the end of the country lane which led to Dovedale having successfully found their way via the villages of Blore and Ilam because the A515 through the centre of Ashbourne was closed owing to roadworks.

Unlike the walk held some 3 years ago the weather was kind to us and mainly rain free throughout the walk.

Dovedale itself comprises a series of exciting rock formations and ancient woodland now regrettably subject to ash die-back .and resultant cutting down of affected trees. The limestone rock the remains of an ancient reef system.

We walked the whole of Dovedale sometimes beside the Dove and at other times viewed from a high path looking down at the river through woodland.

After approximately 3 miles we reached Milldale and viewed the river from a different aspect.

After a short break we walked through the hamlet of Milldale and then ascended out of Milldale up a rocky path to reach the field level above Dovedale and walked through fields eventually passing fields near Ilam village and at the rear of the Izaac Walton Hotel and returned to Dovedale car park.

After the walk we drove to the Izaac Walton Hotel for a well deserved drink.

Tuesday 15th July 2025. Dale Abbey, led by Paul

Twelve walkers assembled at Bartlewood Lodge for a seven mile walk that included Locko Park, Dale Abbey and a hermit’s cave. The weather forecast was not good, so after the usual group photo we started promptly, walking along a public footpath through Dale Wood natural cemetery that led to the Midshires Way. Carefully crossing the Spondon to Ilkeston road, we entered Locko Park and descended a good gravel and tarmac track. We stopped to admire the waterfowl on the lake and a distant view of Locko Hall, a Grade 2* building dating from 1725. I explained that the name ‘Locko’ originated from the hall being the site of a leper hospital in the 13th century where the unfortunate inmates were dressed in rags, or ‘loques’ in the French language.

We ascended a footpath in the estate to a small bridge and re-joined the Midshires Way, eventually reaching the Spondon to Ilkeston road again, where we stopped for drinks. After crossing the road we descended into a pretty valley or dale and picked our way through narrow footpaths into the small hamlet of Dale Abbey. Here we stopped to view one of the smallest churches in the UK, the semi-detached All Saints Church, a pub once occupying the other half of the building. From there we entered a field that gave us a magnificent view of the ruined eastern window of Dale Abbey, all that remains after Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries in 1538. Rain was threatening once again, so we walked a short road section to the head of the dale, where we were thankful for the shelter of the woodland along the route.

Next stop was another Ancient Monument, a cave carved by a hermit into the soft sandstone cliff in the 12th century, his home for 20 years! We then walked along a bridle track and made haste our return to Bartlewood Lodge, for a change into dry clothes, a welcome drink and lunch.

Tuesday 1st July 2025. Darley Bridge, led by Tony

On Tuesday 1st July the walking group met at Darley Bridge just North of Matlock. The weather forecast was for an exceptionally hot day with temperatures set to rise above 30 degrees but in fact in fact it turned out to be a pleasant and comfortably warm day as we set off down the Derwent Valley Heritage Way. Passing Ashton Farm we began the ascent through Jug Hole Wood. The wood is so named on account of the series of predominantly natural caverns which exist below ground but the entrance and exit tunnels were very visible from the path that we took. Once reaching Moorlands Lane we paused for a coffee stop and then walked onwards across Bonsall Moor. In the far distance it was possible to see the water fountain in the grounds of Chatsworth House spouting up high into the air. We stopped to have our picnic lunch by Luntor Rocks above the village of Winster. After lunch we crossed through Winster and took the path up to Ivy House. To return to Darley Bridge we followed Clough Lane back across the top of the ridge. The walk measured 7.8 miles and took in some magnificent views of the Derwent Valley

Tuesday 17th June 2025. Horseshoe Trail from Ticknall led by Christine

18 of us gathered on a warm day in Ticknall. We were walking part of The Horse Shoe Trail (it makes the shape of a horse shoe on the map). We headed along Chapel lane and into Robin Wood providing some shade for a while. As we walked towards St Brides we stopped to look at a WW2 bunker which was well hidden in the bushes. From St Brides we headed off towards Ingleby Toft through the woods passing a Skeleton resting on the bench. On our return to Ticknall we spotted the Hangman’s Stone. Having walked 7 miles in warm weather we were all ready for lunch and a drink at the Staff of Life. We will complete the second half of the walk in September.

Tuesday 3rd June 2025. From Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Park led by Kevin

Following the 9am downpour we were met with dry conditions as nineteen (the highest number this year) gathered at the Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Car Park. The higher number was due to four people coming for the first time following the Open Day last month and a further member joining us from the medium walking group. On leaving the car park we set off on a path to the visitor information shed turning left to a crossroads and footpath past Normanton le Heath Church and onto main street. On our way to Swepstone we were met by very kind property owner who allowed us to climb over his low fence and across his land after missing the correct path some 500m down the hill. This saved us a good 30 minutes. After passing Swepstone we turned left towards Heather passing the rear of the rather nice Heather Hall and the rear of the not so nice car maintenance yard adjacent to Heather Village Hall. After a short road section though Heather we entered Sence Valley Forest Park and back to Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Car Park.

Tuesday 20th May 2025. Around Appleby Parva led by Kevin and Trevor

The lovely dry run of weather greeted us again this morning as 15 of us gathered at the Appleby Parva Inn for the group photograph. After leaving the Inn car park we soon passed through a concrete tunnel under the M42 and headed though some green pasture and farm fields paths that were very dry and dusty passing from Leicestershire into Warwickshire and the lovely village of Newton Regis. As we walked on, several church spires could be seen in the distance of various villages. We briefly crossed the Staffordshire border before returning via No Mans Heath into Warwickshire and then back into Leicestershire and the Appleby Parva Inn car park for lunch.

Tuesday 15th April 2025. Donisthorpe and Moira, led by Colin

The group met at the Donisthorpe Miners Institute to discover that there appeared to be a construction site where we needed to go! Fortunately, there was enough space to get past on the path which led up to the former railway alignment.

This is now a good path for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, which we followed nearly to Measham. We then took an ordinary footpath across the fields to skirt Measham and then to Oakthope. Here we made our way through a new small housing estate before regaining fields. This led to the old bed of the Ashby Canal, which we followed to Oakthorpe Colliery. Here, some convenient picnic benches and tables made an appropriate and adequate stopping place for our coffee break. Then it was onwards along more good paths to Hicks Lodge, where the Visitor Centre facilities were appreciated by most of the party. Resuming our journey along good paths to Moorfields, we then took a less established footpath through the woods alongside the housing estate.

This is, in fact, the trackbed of a horse drawn tramway which carried coal from Moorfields Pit to the Ashby Canal at Moira Furnace. Arriving at the furnace, we found it covered in scaffolding, which blocked the towpath we wanted to use! A short diversion around the Furnace found us back on the towpath. The reason for the work at Donisthorpe now became apparent as the entire towpath has been resurfaced making an excellent surface for walking. Our 6.5 mile walk had taken no more than 3 hours including stops, reflecting the quality of the paths, dry conditions underfoot and only 4 stiles.

Most of the party then drove a mile or so to the Cricketts pub at Acresford for a well earned drink and excellent lunch.

Tuesday 1st April 2025. Clent hills, led by Tony

On Tuesday 1st April the walking group met at the Vine Inn in Clent (South of Hagley in Worcestershire) to walk the Clent Hills. It was a clear sunny spring day as we set off from Clent village along various paths across pleasant fields towards Calcot Hill Farm. On reaching the farm and after a gentle climb up the hill, we saw our first views of the Malvern Hills in the distance with the sun just burning through a thin layer of wispy cloud. From there we climbed up to the top of Walton Hill and reached the Triangulation Pillar marking 315 meters above sea level. We took a coffee break at the bottom of the hill before the climb up to the 4 stones from where we had fantastic views in all directions. We were able to make out the Welsh borders in the distance and a toposcope (a circular pillar indicating the direction and distance to notable towns and cities sometimes called an orientation pillar or a topograph) had been erected next to the 4 stones (large standing stones) to assist in identifying the landscape. From there it was downhill to Little Clent village and then back to the Vine Inn for lunch.

Tuesday 18th March 2025. Woodhouse Eaves, led by Kevin

After a few days of warm weather, we were greeted by a lovely morning as fourteen of us gathered at the Old Bulls Head at Woodhouse Eaves. Following the usual group photo, we left the pub car park walking along the high street and the beginning of a climb which took us uphill and into Broombriggs Farm Estate. On reaching the top of the estate we stopped for a short breather and were rewarded with a lovely view across Leicestershire down towards Loughborough. Rested we continued along a grassy path and a fenced off enclosure and were rewarded with a foal resting against the fence. Not long afterwards we began climbing again to the top Beacon Hill carpark before continuing round and down the hill back into the Broombriggs Farm Estate and Woodhouse Eaves.

Tuesday 4th March 2025. Calke Tramway, Piston Hill and Scaddows Farm, led by Kevin

Another lovely sunny day greeted sixteen walkers at the Staff of Life Ticknall car park. After ordering lunch we set off along road passed Calke main entrance and turning right into the Lime Kilns. We passed though the tunnel under the main drive to Calke Estate and joined the Tram Way trail all the way to the Staunton Harold Estate taking the road into the estate and left to Dimminsdale. After stopping to admire a pair of legs in a tree we returned to a wooded track across road and back onto the Tram Way Trail and into Calke Estate passing Betty’s pond, the main drive, ticket office and back to Ticknall for Lunch.

Tuesday 18th February 2025. Bradgate Park, led by Kevin

Following several weeks of gloomy weather it was lovely to see a bright blue sky as fifteen of us gathered at the Bradgate Inn at Cropston. After registering our cars and a group photograph we set off crossing the reservoir dam wall with lovely views across the water.

On arriving at the Hallgates Bradgate Park entrance we took a footpath uphill which runs just outside the boundary wall to the Hunts Hill entrance where we entered the park and on round to the Newtown Linford entrance. Here we joined the rather busy main path ( due to half term ) towards the Chapel ruins and there turning right and back round the reservoir to the pub for lunch.

Tuesday 4th February 2025. Sutton Park, led by Kevin

After cancelling this walk in November due to snow it was still an overcast dry but cold day that greeted us as we all gathered in the pub car park. Thirteen of us set off over a busy road and straight into Sutton Park, a 2400 acre National Nature Reserve, via a small gated entrance. On turning left we followed the road/park boundary wall though wooded area to the Streetly Road park entrance. Soon after crossing the main railway line, we came across a muddy section to Bracebridge Pool, the first of six pools that can be found in the park, and stopped for coffee with views across the water. After refreshments we passed Blackroot Pool and carried on to the main Sutton Coldfield Town Gate entrance soon passing Wyndley and Powell Pools before joining the park boundary wall again back to the pub for a carvery lunch.

Tuesday 21st January 2025. Woodhouse Eaves, led by Tony

14 members of the walking group met up at the Old Bulls Head pub in Woodhouse Eaves for a 7.5 mile walk on what turned out to be a very pleasant day- cold but bright and dry. We headed off out through the village of Woodhouse Eaves and into Longcliffe Golf Club as the walk followed the 'Leicestershire Round' across the golf course and then through woodland to the edge of Bradgate Park. We entered the park and took the various paths that led down to the Visitor Centre where we took our coffee break. We then exited the park at the Cropston Reservoir gate and went into Swithland Wood. We had intended going through to Swithland Village but feared that the fields we needed to cross were likely to be water logged. Instead we traversed the wood and came out by Brand Hills. The route back to the pub took us partly by road and partly by paths back to Woodhouse Eaves. We then had lunch at the Old Bulls Head before returning home.

Tuesday 3rd December 2024. Around Packington, led by Kevin

This was the now traditional short walk around Packington of about 4 miles with the option of a meal or drinks at the Bull and Lion afterwards.

Tuesday 5th November 2024. Trent Lock to Attenborough Nature Reserve, led by Paul McKay

Eighteen walkers met at Trent Lock on a calm and misty morning. We stopped at a bridge over the Erewash canal for a brief explanation of the various waterways that connected with the River Trent. In addition to the two already mentioned were the Cranfleet Cut and the River Soar. Fortunately, our walking route was much simpler to follow than these waterways. It was an ‘out-and-back’ route because the river footpath along the Trent was closed to allow Severn Trent to lay new discharge pipes from the nearby water treatment plant.

After a short walk along the Erewash Canal we crossed fields and passed under a railway line to join the path alongside the Cranfleet cut, a short length of canal that bypassed an un-navigable section of the Trent. Walking away from the canal we followed grassy footpaths to a narrow road and entered Spring Lakes, a new water sports centre, for a brief toilet stop. The road led to a very straight and level footpath alongside a busy railway line and, after crossing a small bridge over the River Erewash, we arrived at Attenborough Nature Reserve Visitor Centre for our drinks stop.

For the return leg we retraced our steps to Spring Lakes but this time continued onto a short footpath leading to the River Trent which we followed upstream back to the Trent Lock Inn for lunch.

Unsurprisingly the walk scheduled for the 19th was cancelled due to the large amount of snow and freezing cold weather that day. The walk around Sutton Park has been rescheduled for Feb 4th.

Tuesday 15th October 2024. Stanton Under Bardon, led by Kevin & Trevor

Fifteen of us gathered in Stanton Under Bardon for the second walk in October in a lot drier conditions than the first. After our traditional start with a photo in front of the thatched pub unsurprisingly named Old Thatched Inn. We set off though a neighbouring property front garden to join a foot path at rear and continued onto Thornton passing the end of Thorton Reservoir. On joining the National Forest Way we passed round the Old Bagworth Park Estate and followed the old railway line to Bagworth Wood and stopped for coffee. After refreshments we began a gentle climb up and round The Stanton Under Bardon Quarry with views down into a very large hole. As we began our descent, we could see our starting point in the distance, so we were very quickly back at the pub for lunch.

Tuesday 1st October 2024. Overseal, led by Kevin

The weather forecast wasn’t good as fourteen of us gathered in the Overseal Village Hall car park in light rain. After dressing in full wet weather gear, we set off passing an unusual wall of clay pipes and following what is known as the Coffin Walk. Prior to an Overseal Church being built the Coffins were carried along this route to Netherseal. Arriving in Netherseal the rain was now heavier, and we were very wet. As we sheltered in the bus stop shelter for our morning refreshments a bus stopped which would have returned us to Overseal, but we decided as a walking group we should carry on. After leaving the dry bus shelter we turned down a track past some very wet and excitable alpacas and came across a very flooded and unpassable path. After consulting the map, we retraced our steps and managed to bypass the problem to rejoin our original route. The rain was now very heavy, and we were all very wet.

It was decided at this point, after another look at the map, to abandon the walk and follow the National Forest Way which conveniently was a few hundred yards from our then current position and took us in a shorter route straight back to the car park. After arriving back at the car park several of us changed into dry clothes and we set off for the short drive to The Cricketts Inn to enjoy a very enjoyable lunch. It was decided to put the walk back in the calendar for 2025.

Tuesday 17th September 2024. Blackbrook Beauty, led by Kevin

19 of us started the walk from Mount St Bernard’s Abbey. A beautiful September day with some mist over the valley. The mist soon cleared leaving a lovely blue sky and no threat of rain! From Mount St Barnards we walked down towards the reservoir and towards Fenney Spring Windmill and then towards Swannymote Woods with views towards Brendon on the Hill church where we stopped for lunch. We then walked into into Whitwick before walking through some woodland back to the Abbey. Tea and cake was then enjoyed in the sunshine at St Joseph’s tea rooms

Tuesday 3rd September 2024. Ticknall Circular, led by Chris and Val

A dull morning but still 14 turned out for the 7 mile walk. Leaving Ticknall and walking through fields and woodland to Woodend House and along tracks to St Brides farm, where we stopped for coffee, we chatted to another walking group who had also planned their stop there.

Onwards through some overgrown paths and out to the road at Robinsons Hill, Melbourne, we continued down the hill, turning right into the entrance to Staunton Harold reservoir, following the edge of the reservoir and on to fields and finally into the Calke Limekilns. After the tunnel we headed back to Ticknall, and a welcome meal in the Staff of Life.

Tuesday 6th August 2024. High Peak junction, led by Tony

9 members of the walking group met at High Peak junction near Cromford in the Peak District for this walk. Despite the weather forecast suggesting that rain would beset us we managed to stay dry for the whole day and all 7 and a half miles.

Starting from the junction we took the detour beyond the pumping station as the bridge over the railway line has been closed for repairs for some weeks. We crossed the canal further down and walked back along the tow path until we reached the railway tunnel taking us up onto the A6. Crossing the road we climbed through a forested area and up onto Intake Lane where we stopped for coffee break.

Then we took the path to Wigwellnook Farm and onto the edge of Bolehill. We stopped for our sandwiches on the climb up to Black Rock and had a great view over the valley.

After lunch we reached the triangulation pillar at the top of Black Rock and enjoyed the descent back to High Peak Junction where some members of the group decided to stop at the kiosk for ice cream. A very pleasant trip was had by all.

Tuesday 16th July 2024. Thorpe, led by Trev and Val

When we left Ashby, it was raining, but on our arrival in Thorpe the rain had left off and we were pleased when 10 hardy souls turned up to walk the 6 and a half mile walk.

We headed through Thorpe and out on to the top of the hill with a lovely view, then walking down to the river and following it along to Dovedale. There we were advised by the Ranger that the river was flooded at the stepping stones and not passable after the previous nights rain. After a quick rethink we headed up the other side of Thorpe Cloud and out onto the hills beyond, onwards through fields to Tissington, where we stopped for coffee and CAKE, returning to Thorpe along the Tissington trail. Luckily the rain stayed away for our walk, only returning when we were all sat outside the pub at the end.

Tuesday 2nd July 2024. Garendon Park, Loughborough, led by Colin

Fifteen intrepid explorers gathered at the Wheatsheaf on the western edge of Loughborough to explore the only recently discovered delights of Garendon Park.

After a short distance along residential roads, we turned onto the trackbed of the former Charnwood Forest Railway. This line from Coalville to Loughborough opened in 1874 and closed to passengers in 1931. The section we covered lost its goods service in 1955. A short distance brought us to the drive into Garendon Park. There used to be a wooden halt here but all trace has long since disappeared as has the bridge which used to cross the drive.

Garendon Park dates from the dissolution of the monastries when it was acquired by the Earl of Rutland. In 1683 the hall was purchased by Ambrose Phillips and his grandson built the three monuments. After use by the military during the Second World War, the house was in poor condition and demolished in 1964. The park then became an agricultural estate. Recently, the site was acquired for house building, which has begun at the Hathern end. As part of the deal, certain paths were to be opened to the public, hence our exploration. It was also a requirement that the monuments be restored.

Turning onto the drive, we began to climb a slope, at the summit of which, on our left, we could see the Temple of Venus. This was based on the Temple of Vesta at Tivoli and was originally planned as a chapel but later became a small art gallery. Continuing round the drives, we next came to the Triumphal Arch, a reproduction of the Arch of Titus in the forum in Rome. Our route now proceeded under the M1 to emerge in Shepshed. Here we had to make our way along the road before joining the bridleway leading back into the park. Eventually we reached the Bavarian Gate which was built in 1838 to give access to the house. It is currently in use as a private residence, although what we could see of the floor plan suggested a somewhat inconvenient one.

A rather circuitous path then took us to the final monument, an obelisk. Work has begun here and the whole structure was encased in netting. From what was visible, it appeared in very poor condition and little actual work was in evidence. It is rumoured that it has been undermined by badgers and there are certainly fresh setts nearby. We continued through Booth Wood to the former railway and turned west to our starting point.

We returned to the Wheatsheaf after three and a half hours and about eight miles for a well earned lunch.

Tuesday 18th June 2024. Chatsworth, led by Kevin and Christine

Despite several of the group being away on holiday and the weather still unsettled, eleven of us turned up for a walk in Derbyshire. After ordering our lunch and taking the group photo we set off from Baslow and entered the Chatsworth Estate though the Cannon Kissing Rotary Gate. Following the course of the river Wye we had magnificent views of Chatsworth House before a steep climb and a ridge with more lovely views of the house and the village of Edensor in the distance. After passing the water reservoirs that feed the water fountain, we stopped for a short period of time at the Hunting lodge again with views overlooking the Derbyshire countryside. Following our stop, we began our decent back to Baslow and lunch at the Wheatsheaf Pub in Baslow.

Tuesday 4th June 2024. From Ticknall, led by David and Lilian

16 Members met at The Staff of Life, Ticknall and the group welcomed new Member Dave and his dog, George.

We walked up Ashby Road and turned right to enter the fields of Basfords Hill Farm and then through a wood and onto a public right of way through the rear garden of a cottage on the outskirts of Ticknall. We then went through fields within Scaddows Farm and then adjacent to a woodland known as the Oaklands.

We returned via the farm track adjacent to The Buildings Farm and into the marshy area at the southern end of Foremark Reservoir over a boardwalk and then into the Nature Reserve containing Carvers Rocks and returned to Ticknall.

Afterwards 11 Members enjoyed a convivial lunch and good conversation at The Staff of Life.

Tuesday 21st May 2024. Market Bosworth, led by Kevin

Despite the very heavy rain at 8am, twelve of us gathered at the Market Bosworth town car park at 9.45 by which time the rain had stopped. After sorting our meal choices we left the car park, past the rear of the school, and joined the Ashby Canal. On a surprisingly dry towpath to Shackerstone we passed several private, and hired, brightly coloured narrow boats. After passing the Shackerstone heritage railway station we went under the line and encountered our first mud of the morning before entering Barton on the Beans and the Leicestershire Round footpath which took us back to Market Bosworth via Carlton for lunch at Ye Olde Red Lion

Tuesday 16th April 2024. Cannock Chase, led by Kevin

Despite recent wet weather we were greeted with a sunny morning as thirteen of us gathered for our pre walk picture outside NT Shugborough Hall estate entrance. We started with a climb from Milford Common, before descending to the to the Staffordshire Way path on the edge of the NT estate. It wasn’t long before we crossed a rather nice 17th century Essex bridge across the River Trent and joined the Trent and Mersey canal for a short distance. On leaving the canal we had a short walk up a quiet road and entered the Seven Sister’s car park in Cannock Chase for coffee break. On finishing our break, we begin a steady climb up a good forestry path and then a decent to fourteen stepping stones which fortunately were not flooded. After several more miles on good unmuddy paths through lovely woodland and moorland we arrived back at Milford Common for lunch.

Tuesday 2nd April 2024. East Leake, led by Tony

Members of the group met at the Bulls Head in East Leake on a fine and sunny morning for a 7 mile walk around the area. We set off across fields and over a stream in the direction of Gotham. We stopped to look down at the neat and tidy station on the Great Central heritage railway line called Rushcliffe Halt before walking up towards the golf club. The path took us alongside the golf course and up onto a ridge from where we had views over the valley and Nottingham could be seen in the distance. After stopping for a coffee/tea break we went through a muddy wood and onto the picturesque village of West Leake. The return path to East Leake was well defined and quite dry - surprisingly given the recent heavy rain. Lunch was taken in the pub and we were joined by 4 members of the group who were unable to walk today

Tuesday 19th March 2024. From the Three Crowns in Wymeswold, led by Kevin and Trev

It was a lovely bright morning as fourteen of us drove to the Three Crowns in Wymeswold. After leaving the pub and crossing the road we encountered the first muddy path of the morning which followed the main road though a small wood. On leaving the small, wooded area we crossed back across the road and over one of the 20 plus stiles of the walk. Due to some very muddy areas we took a couple of detours from the proposed route before entering back into the village on a rather pleasant residential road past the Village Church and back to the pub for a nice lunch efficiently served from a very small kitchen.

Tuesday 5th March 2024. From Staff of Life, Ticknall, led by Kevin

Following the recent rain a beautiful sunny day greeted 14 of us as we gathered outside the Staff of Life Ticknall. Joan took the normal photograph and we set off across the road passing the Ticknall Alms houses, Parish Church and into the village hall car park. We left the car park passing Hangmans stone and turning left just before Foremark farm to Milton saw mill. After several fields we began the one mile climb up to the gallops the corner of Foremark reservoir and back via Scaddows farm and cottage for lunch.

Tuesday 20th February 2024. From Sharlow, led by Tony and Malcolm

13 hardy walkers met at the New Inn Shardlow on Tuesday 20th February. The morning started well as the pub opened up so that we could use their facilities and pre-order our lunch. We set off down the lane and into Great Wilne until we went over the fields to the bridge over the River Derwent. We then took the Midshires Way towards Breaston but the fields leading into the village were very saturated and flooding was rife. Leaving Breaston on the Sawley Rd we again picked up the footpath which crossed several more fields which made the going very difficult in places.

However when we reached the top of Wilne Lane the last 2 miles of the walk were dry underfoot partly due to a management decision to bypass the intended route along the river bank and down the canal. A very welcome lunch was taken in the pub where we were joined by Steve and Bob as well.

Tuesday 6th February 2024. From the Milking Parlour, led by Val and Trev

On a day where rain was expected by 12oclock a hardy band of 15 walkers turned up to the start from The Milking Parlour at Tollgate Brewery, We headed off towards the distant ridge of hills just as the rain started, luckily for us all it was just a shower. Having climbed to the top near Pistern Hill Farm we crossed the Ashby road and into a wooded track eventually coming back out on to the road again where we walked through a very pretty garden and beside the house to cross a small stream and back into woods for our coffee stop. We then crossed a couple of very sticky muddy fields, before crossing the Ashby road to meet a footpath taking us to the tramway path at Calke Park. Passing Calke Explore and heading to Hoggs Corner and then down the track back to the brewery, where we enjoyed a pint and a pizza.

Tuesday 16th January 2024. Calke Estate, led by David and lilian

Having experienced heavy rain over the preceding weeks with mud in the fields and woods, it was decided that the walk would proceed from the Staff of Life pub in Ticknall, in and around the Calke Estate on recognised footpaths and tracks. There was a heavy frost on the morning of the walk which meant that there was a 'frosty' crust over the mud in the fields leading to the Estate. The walk passeed by Betty’s Pond up to the outbuildings at Calke where we had a cup of tea or coffee. We then proceeded to Staunton Harold reservoir and returned via Ticknall Limeyards. The walk was attended by 16 Members and we all had an enjoyable meal with good company at the Staff of Life.

Tuesday 2nd January 2024. Calke Estate, led by Kevin

Our first of the new year started with a similar theme to the last walk of 2023. It was wet, very wet, as 12 hardy walkers dressed in full wet gear set off from Ticknall car park. After crossing the road by the now sorry looking old Wheel pub we headed across the field into Calke Estate and joined the Tram Way trail. With the rain now easing a little we turned left towards Pokers Leys wood past Calke Explore and joined the drive to Calke for a coffee stop. After coffee, and feeling a little drier, we crossed the car park and joined the low level path alongside the ponds turning left into White Leys and finally the Lime Kilns area to join the main road and back to the car park via the Calke Chapel.

Tuesday 5th December 2023. Packington, led by Kevin

In the usual tradition, the morning started with pouring rain as everyone gathered for sausage and bacon cobs at Rydal Gardens at the slightly earlier time of 09.30. Fortunately, the rain stopped, and the sun was just peeping through the cloud as we gathered at Packington car park to begin our walk. It wasn’t long before we were presented with the first obstacle of a flooded stile into the first field. Luckly we were able to open the gate adjacent to the stile and entered the field and rejoin the footpath towards the other carpark on Measham Road. After several rather soggy fields we passed by the Solar field and Champney Springs and joined what we thought was the relative dry section of Babelake Lane back to Packington, but that was not to be. As we entered Packington we were faced with a flooded road which left us no alternative but to walk though the water resulting in us all getting very wet boots and socks except for our Chairman Mr John Pilgrim who was wearing wellingtons! Note to everyone for next year wear, wellies or bring a boat!

Tuesday 21st November 2023. Huddlesford, led by Kevin

Eighteen of us arrived for this morning’s walk at The Plough, Huddlesford, the largest number since the beginning of the year. It was dry and bright as we set off along the Coventry Canal for the first half mile before leaving the Canal and walking though Whittington Village. After leaving the village we joined a path that followed the perimeter of the Whittington Barracks rifle range, fortunately none of us were shot before rejoining the Canal for a short time and following a road and path passing the Fisherwick Lakes (Old gravel workings) now used for fishing. After crossing a further couple of fields and short section of lane we returned to the Plough for a very pleasant lunch which was served very quickly and efficiently. 7.5 miles

Tuesday 7th November 2023. West Leake and Midshires Way , led by Paul

This area has not been explored by the Walking Group so the route and the pub, The Star, was new to most of us. Thankfully the weather was kind with sunshine and calm winds. The route took us down a short road section to an inconspicuous stile and over several fields to a metal bridge and the graveyard of West Leake church. The Mills family seemed to feature on many gravestones and this name would crop up later in the walk.

We crossed the main road in West Leake and zig-zagged along field boundaries towards the West Leake Hills in the distance. To the east we could see the East Midland Airport control tower and the large factory in Kegworth. We climbed up a steep grassy slope flanked by conifer trees to arrive at our drinks stop, a conveniently located open barn. Now walking on a gravel path, we passed alongside a golf course to arrive at the Midshires Way. This led us downhill directly into the picturesque village of West Leake. A Blue Plaque on a building called ‘The Basket’ recalled that the Mills family started a basket weaving business here in the 19th century. We arrived back at ‘The Star’ to enjoy drinks and our pre-ordered lunch.

Tuesday 17th October 2023. Orton on the Hill led by Tony

13 members of the walking group met at The Unicorn pub in Orton on the Hill for this 7.5 mile walk on what turned out to be a glorious sunny day despite the gloomy forecast. We started by walking up to the Warton Rd to take in the fabulous views across the valley towards Austrey and Polesworth. We then tracked across various open fields to emerge into Sheepy Magna Main Street . We then followed the footpaths down to the River Scence and beyond to Sheepy Parva. We met a local resident who was busy cutting back vegetation from the footpath on our return to Orton and thanked her for all her hard work. Lunch was taken at the Unicorn afterwards.

Tuesday 3rd October 2023. From the Belper Arms, Newton Burgoland led by Nev

The morning turned out to be pleasantly warm when 13 of us met up at the Belper Arms in Newton Burgoland.

After we had ordered our lunches we walked around the outskirts of Newton Burgoland and then out towards Derby Lane. We then briefly headed south before turning right on to a bridle path for about 300 yards where we joined the Ivanhoe Way towards Snarestone. A short walk along the main street brought us to the Globe Inn where we crossed the car park and descended on to the canal towpath.

We interrupted the 3 mile walk along the canal towards Shackerstone with a welcome coffee break opposite Gopsall Wharf. On the outskirts of Shackerstone we turned left on to the road, over the railway bridge and then left again on to Derby Lane. Within 200 yards we turned right on a footpath, past The Fields Farm with its small lake and small, thatched shelters to return to Newton Burgoland. A total distance of the walk was about 7 miles. Two additional non-walking members joined for a very pleasant lunch.

Tuesday 5th September 2023. Lathkill Dale led by Kevin

On a lovely sunny day we arrived at Lathkill Dale slightly earlier than normal to avoid the heat of the day.

10 of us set off down through the village of Over Haddon to the bottom of the Dale. We followed the river for about 2 miles before ascending 165 steps to be rewarded with lovely views across the Valley. We walked through a quiet lane along the Limestone Way towards Youlgrave where we could see the pub in the distance. After a few more hills we then descended down a slippery slope back to the river and a final hill climb back to the village of Over Haddon.

We finished our day sitting in the shade with clear views across the valley.

Tuesday 15th August 2023. Thornton Reservoir led by Val and Trev

After a wet Monday, Tuesday dawned fine and dry and 11 of us set off to walk around part of Thornton Reservoir.

We then headed west, across fields and through farms and a track through woodland and a golf course, returning back towards Thornton, with lovely views across the reservoir with the water glinting in the sunlight.

After 8 miles it was nice to return to the Bricklayers Arms for a well earned meal and drink.

Tuesday 1st August 2023. Blackfordby, Hartshorne and Smisby, led by Iain

This walk started and finished at the Taphouse, Annwell Lane, Ashby. 16 walkers set off, heading back to the town until reaching Bishop Hall Road, from where a footpath was picked up, taking us to Blackfordby. Unfortunately, before reaching the village, we met a spell of drizzle and then had to lose one of our members.

The walk then continued to Woodville, where an alternative route had to be taken through the village, due to an unused footpath being too overgrown for safe access. Leaving Woodville, we stopped for a coffee break and then carried on to Hartshorne.

From there, we followed the path to Smisby, including one long, and steep, hill at which point we walked back to the Taphouse along the road, missing out the planned section through Ingles Farm Wood. There were 14 walkers dining and we were provided with excellent food and service.

Tuesday 18th July 2023. Bakewell, led by Kevin

Despite the wet weather forecast and roadworks in Chesterfield we all arrived to a dry day and on time. On leaving Bakewell we passed by the cattle market, crossed the Monsal Trail and the local golf course, before beginning our one hour ascent to the ridge of Manners Wood. After a coffee break to catch our breath we continued along the tree lined ridge before coming out in a clearing with lovely views of Chatsworth House. We continued down a wide grassy path into the village of Edensor for lunch, sheltering in the Church porch as the rain was gently falling. After lunch and a look inside the Church we continued with another climb out of Edensor along an old stoney track before crossing the golf course again and descending back to Bakewell by which time we were all very wet.

Tuesday 4th July 2023. Ashby canal, led by John Pilgrim

Following on from the recent Monthly Meeting talk given by from Geoff Pursglove of the Ashby Canal Association, we linked in a walk of the Canal section still to be restored.

Fourteen of us massed at The Globe Inn at Snarestone and headed down the Ashby Canal towards Measham spotting a koi carp merrily swimming in the Canal and then soon encountering where it is blocked off. We continued walking on top of the in-fill, actually along the Canal bed in the exact route to Measham.

In Measham we diverted from the Canal route to take a look at the markers for the pit heads and onwards to the more modern transport route going under and alongside the A42, meeting some of the shouty dogs that were a feature of the walk. This took us next to the River Mease, being the origin for Measham.

Turning Eastwards we headed for Appleby Magna, crossing a number of stiles and fields, with various cereal crops of wheat, barley and oats, meeting a geophysicist tracking the land, as we neared Snarestone again.

Meeting our final shouty dogs on the fringes of Snarestone, we concluded back at The Globe. Eleven of us then munched our way through our orders for a well earned and convivial end to 8 1/2 miles of walking.

Tuesday 20th June 2023. Dovedale circular, led by David and Lilian

Dawn broke.

At 7am we looked at the Met Office forecast for Ashbourne and discovered that it was the same as yesterday - heavy rain in the morning together with the chance of a thunderstorm.

We arrived just after 9.15 am at The Izaac Walton Hotel, Ilam and waited. At about 9.25am the cavalry arrived in a VW Golf - to our relief. We would not be having to cancel the walk or do a short walk on our own in the rain. The Lone Ranger also arrived in good time for the start of the walk. Seven Members started the walk in the dry but soon the Heavens opened and it carried on raining for the first two hours of the walk. We reached Milldale and found a stone built shelter and it was good to get into the dry and to have a relaxing cup of tea/coffee. An additional advantage was that there were free public toilets adjacent to the shelter.

We followed Milldale for about 300 yards and made an ascent up to the fields above Dovedale. It was not as hard as we remembered and reached the village of Stanshope and then returned to the Hotel via Ilam Moor skirting the village of Ilam itself.

The Hotel served our meals which we had ordered when we arrived and the food was of a good quality. We departed the Hotel having endured the rain along the walk but having enjoyed each other’s company and looking forward to the next walk.

The numbers were less than normal because at least 7 regular walkers were on holiday.

Tuesday 6th June 2023. Tideswell, led by Val and Trev

Having been delayed on our journey,a determined group of 8 set off, 15minutes late, for our 6.5 mile walk. Having left the village we followed a stream down through Tideswell Dale, before reaching the River Wye. We then continued on to reach the delightfully named Water-cum-Jolly Dale for our drinks stop. On leaving the river we had a steady uphill road section, before entering Cressbrook Dale. We stopped for our lunch break at the bottom of Tansley Dale and then on towards the village of Litton before returning to Tideswell and the Horse and Jockey pub where much hilarity ensued over a well earned pint of beer.

Tuesday 16th May 2023. From Alrewas, led by Mike Gibson

With a glorious day in prospect, a lucky 13 turned up at the George & Dragon, Alrewas, for an early 9.30am start on this 8.2 mile circular walk in and around the Trent Valley, last undertaken in July 2015 but with a different starting point. The initial route took us along the Trent Valley Way on the south side of the River Trent, which featured a succession of fields, a couple offering some very heavy going through thick grass. Reaching Yoxall Bridge, we crossed this Grade II listed 18th-century structure, which was replaced in 1998 by a new bridge carrying the A515, and then looped round through woodlands and more fields to enter Yoxall from the west. Once through the village, we headed down Brown’s Lane and along a section of The Way for the Millennium (part of the National Forest Way), a mainly grassy track through fields and woodlands above the River Swarbourn, noting that an extremely dodgy stile encountered on the ‘test run’ 3 weeks earlier had been repaired! On past the Wychnor Park Country Club, then dropping down through a riverside wood before trekking across more fields back to Alrewas, where an intrepid foursome braved some serious mud to view where the River Trent ‘crosses’ the Trent & Mersey Canal. (The two waterways essentially merge for a short distance.) All repaired to the George & Dragon for a pleasant lunch and a well-deserved pint.

Tuesday 2nd May 2023. From Heather, led by Trev and Val

The group met at the Queens Head in Heather, for a 7.5 mile walk. Having left the pub, we passed the church and crossed the Measham road, then set off in the direction of Newton Burgoland. Arriving in the village, we turned down the lane by the primary school and after a number of stiles and fields we had our drink stop near Shackerstone. We then joined part of the Leicestershire Round footpath, continuing on to Odstone. From there it was farm tracks and paths, being careful not to touch the electric fence! before arriving back in Heather for well earned meal and drink.

Tuesday 18th April 2023. Around Cossington, led by Kevin

Despite the forecast we were greeted with a fine day as 15 of us gathered at Cossington for our Tuesday walk. Soon after leaving the pub car park we joined part of the Leicestershire Round foot path to pass the new Leicester City training ground and then to the small community of Seagrave. On leaving Seagrave we crossed several fields before walking a very well defined path through the middle of Sileby coming out opposite the Parish Church. We continued out of town along the river Soar and Grand Union canal back to pub for lunch.

Tuesday 4th April 2023. From Carlton, led by Tony

The walking group met at the Gate Hangs Well pub in Carlton for the first walk in April. The pub opens at 9am so we were able to pre order lunch before setting off. The path across the first few fields was drier than expected but one farmer had rough ploughed his field without reference to the public right of way so a detour around the edge of the field was required. We skirted around the edge of Osbaston village and then on to Market Bosworth where we stopped for tea/coffee. There was even an ice cream van and toilets. After the break we crossed through the market square in Bosworth and then back to Carlton for lunch. Luckily it stayed dry despite a poor weather forecast.

Tuesday 21st March 2023. From Lakeside Bistro, led by Paul

Sixteen walkers gathered at the Lakeside Bistro car park for this walk around several attractions in the National Forest. The weather was forecast to be unsettled, but except for a brief shower, it was fine. We climbed some steep wooden steps to get onto the trail of a disused railway track, now part of the Ivanhoe Way used for the local Conkers Parkrun. Passing the Youth Hostel on our right, we then followed the short northern section of the Ashby Canal to Moira Furnace. This gem of local industrial heritage is a 217 year old blast furnace that made poor quality pig iron during the Napoleonic War. Its short working life is the reason it is such good condition now. After crossing a road and a bridge over the canal we came to Sarah's Wood and then Conkers Waterside, where we stopped for drinks. After going through a tunnel we came to Conkers Discovery Centre, then via a short road section to Albert Village Lake, an old flooded quarry that shows how an industrialised wasteland can be transformed to a habitat for bird life. After another road section, we were back onto the Ivanhoe Way and then descended a series of ramps down to the road. We followed a very wet footpath next to a stream through a wood, and arrived back at the Bistro for a well-earned pint and some hearty food, after walking 8.1 miles.

Tuesday 7th March 2023. Around Heather, led by Kevin

Despite the forecast, another lovely day for walking greeted us, as 21 people gathered at the Queens Head. After the usual photograph, we crossed the road to take the path up the side of Sence Valley Forest Park passing the lakes to the car park at the top of the site. We joined the National Forest Way path towards Donington Le Heath but before reaching there turned left and walked through the Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve (Formally a Sewage works) and stopped for a coffee break in a bird hide overlooking the small lake. Our walk continued in figure of eight to re-cross the A447 and re-enter the boundary of Sence Valley Park, on into the Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Wood and a return to Heather and the Queens Head for lunch.

Tuesday 7th February 2023. Around Ticknall, led by Kevin

Twenty one turned up for this mornings walk, strangely enough the largest number since the first walk in February last year where we had twenty five. Our numbers were boosted today by three new lady walkers and Sue returning from her hip operation. After leaving the Staff of Life we crossed the road to pass through the Church Yard and Ticknall Hall car park to turn left away from Ticknall across open fields into Robin Wood and Woodend Cottage. Soon after crossing the A514 we reached a group of properties called St Brides. Our route continued to the tower overlooking Staunton Harold reservoir. The final part of the walk took us along the Reservoir path and edge of the Calke Estate and lime kilns before returning to the Staff of Life for lunch.

Tuesday 17th January 2023. Around Thringstone, led by Tony

16 members of the walking group met at the George and Dragon pub Thringstone on a bright but cold wintry morning. We set off up Lilly Bank to avoid walking along the busy A512 and took a path alongside the primary school to a suitable crossing point where we crossed the A512 and followed the path into Osgathorpe. We then traversed a number of frozen fields crossing over the Ashby to Rempstone Rd and emerging into Belton. We stopped for coffee and then walked down Long St to it's junction with the B5324 . The return route to Osgathorpe took us round Osgathorpe Hall and to complete the figure of 8 walk we strolled down Meadow Lane and Stordon Lane and back to the George and Dragon for lunch.

Tuesday 6th December 2022. Foremark, led by David and Lilian

Fifteen Members attended for the start of the walk at The Staff of Life Ticknall to go to Foremark reservoir and then return by the National Forest Way. Many admiring glances were made towards a farm along the way to Foremark reservoir which had an impressive glass fronted extension towards open countryside. The walk continued through the woods and alongside Foremark reservoir passing Carvers Rocks (Millstone Grit) and we had a coffee stop with mince pies. On our return, the pub was busy with other diners but we were able to be served with our meals without a long wait and the food quality was good. It was an easy and enjoyable six mile walk for us all before Christmas.

Tuesday 15th November 2022. From Rydal Gardens around Packington, led by Kevin

Despite the very wet forecast, 21 gathered for the bacon and sausage breakfast provided by Kevin and Chris at their house, ably assisted by Val and others. When the time came to start the walk there was not a lot of enthusiasm but 16 set off from Packington avoiding muddy fields and sticking to paths (saving the planned walk for another time). The weather was better than expected and for a brief moment it stopped raining so we didn't get too wet but we were all grateful to finish at the Bull and Lion to dry out and have lunch.

Tuesday 1st November 2022. Shipley Country Park led by Paul

Sixteen walkers gathered at the Newdigate Arms, West Hallam for this relatively easy stroll around undulating parkland. There were no stiles and walking was mostly on gravel tracks or tarmac. The first challenge was to negotiate a large puddle of rainwater under an old railway bridge, before entering the nature park. We passed some large water pipes intended to control flood water from Shipley Lake. We then walked alongside a new housing development on the site of the old American Adventure theme park, which had been a major family attraction up to its closure in 2007. We had good views over Shipley Lake but due to the building work it looked more like a flooded quarry than a nature reserve. The drinks stop at the Visitor Centre allowed us to some shelter from a brief rain shower before continuing beside a wood and a small pond. We headed south along a traffic-free road towards Mapperley Reservoir before retracing our route back to the pub for lunch.

Tuesday 18th October 2022. Rosliston, led by Mike G

On a beautiful sunny day, 14 turned up at the Bull's Head, Rosliston, for a 6.5 mile stroll through the South Derbyshire countryside, a variation on a walk last undertaken in August 2016. As before, our route took us out of the south-west corner of the village, through tree plantations and fields to Catton Lane, then on past Lads Grave (reputedly where a Civil War deserter was hanged and buried). Continuing south-west, we headed over fields and along farm tracks past Overfields Farm before turning east to the edge of Raddle Farm Wood and on to Coton-in-the-Elms. We ambled through the village and headed south-east through Coton Wood and past Church Flatts Farm (the furthest point from the sea in the UK, according to the Ordnance Survey), then veered north-east to Park Farm, where we encountered a groin-stretching group of 6 stiles within ~200 yards! We subsequently headed north-west along the National Forest Way, past Botany Bay, along the edge of Penguin Wood, before turning off towards Rosliston just short of Calves Croft Farm. Back at the Bull's Head, we enjoyed an excellent lunch, washed down by drinks courtesy of walk leader Mike Gibson, who was trying to forget that he had reached three-quarters of a century the previous day.

Tuesday 20th September 2022. Barton under Needwood, led by Iain

With excellent weather conditions for walking, 14 members set off from the Shoulder of Mutton pub in Barton-under-Needwood to undertake the Silver Circuit walk, in reverse direction. This walk was created in 2016 to commemorate 25 years of the National Forest. The 8-mile circular walk took in Barton Marina, the Trent and Mersey canal (where we helped to pull a narrowboat through a lock), Tatenhill Common and the Dunstall Estate. All 14 stayed on to enjoy excellent food and hospitality at the pub.

Tuesday 6th September 2022. Around Melbourne area, led by Kevin

It was a rather misty, murky morning as twelve of us gathered at the Bulls Head pub car park in Wilson. After the traditional start photograph, taken in Steve's garden next door (Steve was unable to participate due to a hand injury), we set off past the health club and new spa complex and joined an old track called Park Pale. We turned at Scotland farm to come back up the next valley into Melbourne, sitting for coffee overlooking the pool. We continued our figure of eight walk by heading to the tower at Staunton Harold Reservoir then Melbourne town centre and back to Steve's back garden for sausage and onion baps supplied by Steve. (Great barbecue skills Steve)

Tuesday 16th August 2022. Mam Tor, led by Tony

10 members of the walking group met up in the car park at Castleton on a pleasantly warm and dry morning to climb to the top of Mam Tor. We set off negotiating the back alleys of Castleton and took the path up towards the entrance to the Blue John Caverns. It was a gentle climb through fields and some wooded areas until we reached the road coming up from Chapel. We stopped for a tea break and then began the ascent up the shoulder of the hill until we reached the trigonometry point. 2 kind ladies took pictures of the group for us and we reciprocated for them. We continued along the ridge stopping for a picnic lunch before beginning the descent. The views from the top were magnificent. The route down took us past Losehill Farm and into the back of the village. We had tea and cakes before leaving for home. It was a most enjoyable day out.

Tuesday 2nd August 2022. Needwood Forest, led by Steve Jennings and Malcolm Fletcher

It is now well proven to those who were with us that trying to do a 7 mile walk without doing a recce first is very ill advised. However because of the experience of several of our group and some smart navigation equipment, we were able to enjoy 5miles of pleasant countryside without getting lost, retruning to base to enjoy excellent company, brilliant ales and average food.

Tuesday 19th July 2022. Calke Abbey, led by Kevin and Christine

Due to the extreme hot weather warning, our Mam Tor walk was cancelled for the second time, this is now re-scheduled for the 19th August. The hot weather warning did not put off 15 of us who gathered for the re-arranged walk from the Staff of Life complete with sun cream, hats and water. We walked on the shady side of the street to the Lime Kilns, part of the Calke Estate before heading up the main drive in the shade of the Yew trees and stopping under the shelters for our first stop at Calke Explore. After a longer than usual stop we set off for the main house, keeping as best we could under the tree canopy. After another stop for ice cream and drinks at the main cafe, we set off past deer park, the lake and the Old Man of Calke Oak tree and back to the Staff of Life for about 12.15 and a well earned drink and lunch.

Tuesday 5th July 2022. Earl Shilton, led by Tony and Bill

10 members of the walking group met at the Dog and Gun pub in Earl Shilton on a pleasant but cloudy morning. We started the walk by taking the footpath which runs alongside the pub and down into fields before crossing Shilton Rd (the former A47 trunk road) and heading towards the church spire of St Mary Magdalene, Peckleton. As we approached the village we walked alongside the race course of the stables and equestrian centre at Hall Farm Peckleton and remarked about the soft pieces of carpet which had been cut up into small squares to provide a soft 'going' for the horses. Moving on from there we negotiated our way through two fields of crops in which the farmer had obliterated all trace of the public footpath, before stopping for a tea/coffee break. The route then took us into the parkland of Normanton Park and past several fishing lakes before emerging onto the quiet Watery Lane. The lane acquires it's name from the ford which crosses the lane and which was almost 2ft deep at the time of our walk. Fortunately a footbridge is provided for pedestrians but a car using the lane had to make an about turn as the ford was too deep to traverse. We returned to lunch in the pub via The Yennards and Mill Lane.

Tuesday 21st June 2022. Battram Wood, led by Kevin

It was beautiful day as sixteen of us (having completed the first challenge of locating the start of the walk in Battram car park) gathered for our pre walk photograph in the sun shine. We turned from the car park heading back past a few old miner's houses and after few hundred metres turned right onto the route of the National Forest Way. This area has been restored from a mining area and new foot paths are being installed taking us to Bagworth and Bagworth Park for refreshments. Due to time restraints of the pub lunch serving meals and the heat we had to abort the rest of the walk and return to the same direction with a variation at end across new footpaths in Battrum wood. We then drove to the Bricklayers Arms for a very pleasant lunch.

Tuesday 7th June 2022. Ilam and Manifold Valley, led by Tony

A dozen members of the walking group met up at Ilam Hall in the Derbyshire Peak District on a 7.5 mile walk towards the Manifold valley. Climbing up from the hall we joined a substantial farm track at Rushey Bridge and proceeded upwards to Throwley Hall (a ruined 16th century manor house) . After stopping for a coffee break we were engaged in conversation by a local farmer who was pleased to show us the 2 bulls he had recently purchased for the sum of 7.5 guineas. The animals appeared to be huge in size given that one was only 2 years old and the other was younger still. We joined the Manifold Trail and carried on down to Beeston Tor. There then followed a longish up hill climb along Larkstone Lane in order to reach the ridge with great views over the valley. We stopped for a pic nic lunch and then followed the ridge gently descending to the valley below via Castern Hall. We arrived back at Ilam Hall after about 4.5 hours and had tea and cakes overlooking the floral gardens.

Tuesday 17th May 2022. Overseal, Netherseal and the River Mease, led by Iain

13 walkers set off from the Cricketts Inn, Acresford with excellent weather conditions. After walking a short distance along Gorsey Lane, we diverted onto a footpath leading to the Southern end of the village of Netherseal. The route went halfway through the village, including a visit to see the grave of Sir Nigel Gresley on the way. We headed West from this point along the River Mease to begin with, proceeding in the direction of Clifton Campville. Well short of the village, the route turned back towards Netherseal, arriving at the Northern end of the village. We continued Northwards and then took a footpath under the slopes of Cadborough Hill, leading to Valley Road in Overseal. At this point, a path took us South and back to the same turn-off point on Gorsey Lane (not so good for those wearing shorts!), and back to the Cricketts. The meal proved interesting, as the main course was followed by tea or coffee served up in very nice china, with a substantial slice of cake included, all very well organised by the friendly staff.

Tuesday 19th April 2022. High Peak Junction, led by Steve and Bob

Ten happy souls gathered in perfect walking weather at the High Peak Junction car park ready to start another walking adventure, albeit a little shorter distance this time at 5 1/2 miles rather than our normal 7+. Having crossed the river and the railway we were presented with beautiful view of the very impressive inclined plane. You can't help to be impressed with the engineers that built this wonderous structure. The incline, though steep was not sufficient to deter our party of oldies from walking 3/4 of the way up before we needed to turn off, onto a not surprisingly steep slope down. That pretty well describes the whole of the walk, a lot of up and a lot of down but very beautiful and although only 5 1/2 miles long we all thought we had walked the equivalent of 7+. As there is no pub at the junction we all adjourned to the Old Black Swan in Crich where we enjoyed good pub fare, excellent beer and splendid company.

Tuesday 5th April 2022. Packington to Hicks Lodge, led by David and Lillan

Here is a map of the walk

Tuesday 15th March 2022. Hartshorne led by Paul

The weather was warm and calm for our walk from the Bulls Head in Hartshorne. We passed the Dethick Hall, then into Church Street where we stopped next to an old cast iron bollard bearing the letters HWW to hear how this marked the route of an old water supply from Hartshorne Water Works. Proceeding through St Peters church yard, we arrived at Limehouse Dams, known locally as Hartshorne Dams, the official name derived from the use of lime by HWW to treat the water. After a short climb, we stopped to look at a plaque describing how evidence of an ancient Mesolithic settlement was found nearby at Daniel Hayes farm. Passing through a large open field, we climbed steeply to the start of a level byway that led to the entrance to Daniel Hayes farm. After passing two small lakes we arrived at a narrow lane leading to the centre of Smisby where we had our drinks stop. We returned via Smisby Church, crossed a road and a ploughed field, thankfully quite dry, to a large open field where several thousand broad-leaved and conifer saplings had recently been planted. A short walk along a narrow track brought back to the Bulls Head for refreshments.

Tuesday 1st March 2022. Ticknall led by Trev and Val

On a sunny crisp spring morning, 9 members met at the Staff of Life at Ticknall, for an eight mile circular walk via Milton. We headed out along main street, then on towards Foremark reservoir and Carvers rocks, before reaching the highest point then heading downwards on a farm track, with lovely views across the Trent Valley. After a drink stop, we continued on via numerous fields to Milton, from there we started the return section of our walk, along the ridge of the hill, finally seeing the fine spire of Ticknall Church, then returning to the pub for welcome refreshments

Tuesday 15th February 2022. Swannington, Ravenstone and Coalville led by Tony

9 hardy u3a walkers set out from the Robin Hood Inn Swannington on a wet and blustery day in the direction of Limby Hall Lane. For the record, there never was a Limby Hall but in earlier times the local residents so named the lane so as to make the area in which they lived sound more 'grand' than it actually was. From there we traversed the fields towards Sinope and crossed the Ashby to Coalville railway line to emerge onto the A511. Crossing the road we headed off towards Ravenstone where we sought refuge from the weather in a very handy bus shelter and stopped for our coffee break. Following the route of the former Ashby to Coalville turnpike road we set of again and took the old colliery road past the former Snibston colliery (now Snibston Country Park) onto Ashby Rd Coalville and then towards Stevensons College. We walked back to the Robin Hood via Cuckoo Gap Wood.

Tuesday 1st February 2022. Around Coleorton and Peggs Green led byTony

25 walkers met at the Angel Inn Coleorton Moor on a bright but crisp day. Regrettably the pub should have been open to take our lunch orders but it remained closed and there was no answer to our phone calls. Nonetheless we set off along Prestons Lane and then down Moor Lane to Hough Mill which is a restored flour mill. We followed the paths over various fields and emerged onto the A512 a few hundred yards away from the George & Dragon pub. We took a tea/coffee break at the corner of Stordon Lane where the leader make hurried arrangements with the Robin Hood Inn at Swannington to accommodate us for lunch after the walk. We then proceeded to Peggs Green and stooped on Aqueduct Rd to admire the remains of the Coleorton railway. We returned to our vehicles at about 1.15pm to find the Angel Inn still closed. So, as arranged, we drove down to Swannington to lunch at the Robin Hood. We were extremely grateful to the landlady for providing excellent service and food at such short notice.

Tuesday 18th January 2022. Calke estate led by Kevin

It was beautiful day as seventeen of us gathered for our pre walk photograph in glorious sun shine outside the Staff of Life. We turned left out of pub back towards Ashby for 100m before taking another left on footpath across fields to join the Calke Limeyards trail. We set off at a good place along the well maintained path before entering the Calke Estate parkland and heading towards the NT café for coffee break. On leaving our picnic tables we set off on the path above the lakes before turning left though hole in wall at corner of Deer Park. Here we encountered the first mud of the walk as we crossed the fields overlooking Staunton Harold reservoir before entering the old Lime Kilns workings, tracks with more mud though the tunnel under the main access road to Calke Estate and back to Staff of Life for lunch.

Tuesday 4th January 2022. Snarestone led by Kevin

The first walk of the New Year was a lovely sunny day. 14 of us set off from Snarestone. We followed paths and over fields to Newton Burgoland before making our way along a rather treacherous, deep, trenched muddy path. We eventually got to the canal to join the Ivanhoe way back to the The Globe, which unfortunately was closed for food. By the end of the walk there were some very muddy boots and trousers!

Tuesday 7th December 2021. Christmas Walk led by Kevin

Our last walk of the year started a little differently with 24 of us gathering for pre-walk bacon baps and muffins at Kevin & Chris's house. Fortunately the weather stayed dry as we gathered outside for eating (if a little chilly!) and remained dry after we de-camped to Packington CP to start the walk. Unfortunately during our walk the wind picked up and the rain started! It was decided to offer a shorter walk for those who wanted to. However as the near-freezing rain and wind increased, we all opted for the short walk and got back to the pub for midday. Despite getting to the pub at opening time and an hour earlier than expected, they managed to feed and water us with no problems. The walk was measured at a rather short 3.2 miles

Tuesday 16th November 2021. Saddlington led by Bill Wilson

13 members met at the Queen's Head, Saddington. Lunch was preordered, the weather was grey and misty but dry. The walk took us round Fleckney through Kibworth and over Smeeton Hill which on a clear day affords lovely views. The path then took us past Saddington reservoir opened in 1797 to supply water to the Grand Union canal. Another mile took us back to the pub for lunch and a pint. 7 miles mainly over fields with mainly gates and a just few stiles.

Tuesday 2nd November 2021. Overseal led by Mike G

With a dry sunny day in prospect, an exceptional 19 enthusiasts turned up at the Robin Hood Inn, Overseal, to undertake the 7+ mile (precise measurements differed!) "Overseal’s Emerald Necklace" heritage walk, with a 20th joining us at the half-way stage. The route took us through Gunby Lea Wood, skirted the Grangewood Airfield, along Green Lane, through Wadlands Wood, and on to the site of Wadlands Wharf, the original northern terminus of the Ashby Canal. From here, we broadly followed the Hooghborough Brook, which marks the Derbyshire/ Leicestershire boundary, via Gorsey Leys and Short Heath, then past a 5GW solar park and Seal Wood, picking up the ancient Church Way towards Netherseal before heading back to Overseal via Dead Danes Bottom. At various points, walk leader Mike Gibson waffled about nearby heritage features, noting the contrasting effects of mining subsidence: the “overnight” disappearance of Barratt Pool in the 1950s, and the equally sudden appearance of Broomfields Lake in the 1980s. Back at the very hospitable Robin Hood, which had opened specially for us, we enjoyed a well-deserved drink with our packed lunches, plus some chips (supplied by the pub).

Tuesday 19th October 2021. Thornton led by Trev and Val

As the weather forecast was for heavy rain at 10am, it was a pleasant surprise to find we had an unusually warm and humid morning,

12 hardy members left the Bricklayers Arms in Thornton to circumnavigate the reservoir, before heading off into the countryside and an encounter with a freight train when crossing the railway line.

A drink stop was taken at the fishing ponds on Bagworth Heath before heading off into Royal Tigers Wood and on to Bagworth church ruins, continuing downhill passing under the railway line and back up to Thornton. After 6.5 miles we were back and we all enjoyed a drink and a meal at the pub.

Tuesday 5th October 2021. Bradgate Inn, Cropston and Bradgate park, led by Kevin and Chris

Twelve of us gathered on a rather grey, wet morning with a rather worse forecast. We managed the photograph during a brief blue sky interlude and set off walking across the dam of the Cropston Reservoir. After crossing the only stile of the walk we soon joined part of the National Forest Way footpath into Swithland Wood and onward passing some nice houses into Woodhouse Eaves. The next stage took us onto the Leicestershire Round footpath into Bradgate Park, past Old John Tower and back to our lunch with views over Cropston Reservoir. Despite the forecast we returned damp but not too wet.

Tuesday 21st September 2021. Boot Inn, Repton circular via Newton Solney and River Trent, led by Bill Wilson

After a little difficulty for some to find a parking spot in Repton, we pre-ordered our lunches at the Boot and set off along the back alleys and footpaths of Repton before coming across a farm full of different animals. Sheep, pigs, cows, ducks and geese are common but one large white bird appeared to be a Rhea. All the creatures were intermingled in several pens and fields. From there we walked over the hill to Dale Farm, through Newton Solney and down to the Trent where the River Dove joins it. A pleasant walk along the river bank brought us back to Repton School and the Boot Inn. Lovely food and drink rounded off the morning.

Tuesday 7th September 2021. Heather to Ibstock and Ellistown led by Trev and Val

On a clear,bright and sunny morning, 18 members set off from the Queens Head, Heather, for an 8 mile section of the 'Birthday Walk'. Initially, going out on paths and tracks, arriving near Ibstock Church. Then by lane and woodland via Ibstock Grange and on towards Ellistown. Because of the unexpected hot weather,regular stops were taken for drinks, on one of these we encountered some very inquisitive horses. Leaving Ellistown we proceeded to Donnington le Heath passing through Kelham Nature Reserve,then back to Heather via Sence Park. Back at the Queens Head we were all in need of some liquid refreshment followed by some excellent food

Tuesday 17th August 2021. Swannington

15 members of the walking group met on Tuesday 17th August at the Robin Hood pub in Swannington. We set off down the Main St and up Church Lane before crossing a field and joining the Swannington incline and walking up to the top. The incline dates back to the 1830's and was used to haul coal wagons up the steep slope. A stationary steam engine constructed by George Stephenson was built at the top of the incline to operate the winding gear which pulled the wagons up the hill. The walk then took us to the Whitwick fishing lake and along the track bed of the former railway linking Coalville and Loughborough. We followed the Ivanhoe Way towards Thringstone and then back along Hospital Lane and to Hough Mill. Returning to Swannington we had a well earned lunch at the Robin Hood.

Tuesday 20th July 2021. From Hanbury around Fauld Crater.

On a very warm day 17 brave walkers gathered at 10 am outside the Cock Inn at Hanbury. Our common purpose was to circumnavigate the very infamous Fauld Crater without losing anybody to heatstroke. Our route took us through well nurtured farmland mainly put over to dairy herds and sheep. The course at times was hard going and unfortunately offered very little shade but we persevered taking plenty of water breaks to sustain us. By shortening the route by approximately half a mile we were able to make it back to the pub before two. Although the service was a little slow we all enjoyed some liquid refreshment and some interesting fare.

Tuesday 6th July 2021. Melbourne to Swarkestone and return.

Notwithstanding the inclement weather, 14 walkers started the walk from Melbourne. We headed off to King's Newton and walked via the Cloud Trail (disused railway line), the Trent and Mersey Canal and fields to Swarkestone. We saw the Swarkestone Pavilion now owned by the Landmark Trust, and having crossed Swarkestone Bridge we were able to view the Bridge from the adjacent fields side-on" and view its length. We continued and returned to Melbourne. No one was too wet at the end of the walk."

Tuesday 15th June 2021. Barton Marina and Needwood Forest

8 Walkers turned up for this walk in very warm and sunny conditions, all male members rather unfortunately.
The walk started from Barton Marina, which was opened in 2001. We headed off through the village of Barton-under-Needwood, the largest in Staffordshire, passing St. James Church, founded by Dr John Taylor, a local villager and chaplain to Henry VIII.
The walk progressed through the Needwood Forest (-under-Needwood being added to Barton in 1327 by Royal Charter).
Walking through lovely undulating countryside, we enjoyed views of Dunstall Church before arriving at the delightful village of Tatenhill. Here we had a liquid refreshment break, before setting off on a grassy, tree lined, path to join the National Forest Way.
The path then followed sand extraction works and a created lake, eventually leading to the Trent & Mersey Canal, along which we walked until reaching Bridge 36, leading back to Barton Marina, a total distance of 7.8 miles.
This walk is known as the Silver Circuit and was created in 2016 to commemorate 25 years of the first planting of the National Forest.

Tuesday 1st June 2021. Willesley Woods and Hicks Lodge

Eighteen of us gathered at Oakthorpe Colliery Picnic Site car park for the start for our second walk of 2021. The sun shone as we set off out of the rear of the car park towards Willesley Woods. After visiting the Royal British Legion memorial grove, we completed a circuit around Thortit Lake and emerged onto a lane. We continued along a footpath to Willesley church and scout camp site where we stopped for our drink break, sheltering from the heat of the sun! After crossing the golf course we followed a path and crossed the road into Hicks Lodge. Here we shared the uphill route with cycles on the Wood Farm and the Family Forest trails. On arrival at the cafe/cycle centre we had a brief comfort break before continuing along the cycle trail skirting the lake. The final part of our walk took us back to the entrance to the car park where eleven of us had lunch on picnic tables in the shade of the trees of Willesley wood.

Tuesday 18th May 2021. Ticknall

Sixteen of us gathered at Ticknall village hall car park for the start for our first walk of 2021 and since relaxation of Covid regulations. The sun shone as we set off out of the rear of the car park towards Hangmans stone and Foremark. Stopping for banana and coffee break at a lovely spot overlooking reservoir we were joined by Jackie McKay. After walking along the edge of the reservoir we climbed up a short hill to be greeted by a grassy bank and a few benches where we stopped for lunch. The final part of our walk took us past Scaddows Farm and on to the Lime kiln trail back to Ticknall. A few of us then paid a visit to the Staff of Life on the way home.

Thursday 17th September 2020. Bosworth Batlefield Centre

Eleven of us gathered on a lovely sunny day at the Bosworth Battleground car park for the first walk since March 17th. Despite the new rule of 6 as long as we adhere to the Ramblers Guidelines we are allowed to walk in groups of more than 6. After a brief Health and SafetyCovid 19 talk we set off following the application of hand sanitiser. We completed the social distanced photograph before heading down hill to cross the line at Shenton battlefield railway station and then to pass though Shenton village. Several fields later we arrived briefly at Ashby de la Zouch canal tow path before heading up into Dadlington for lunch in glorious sunshine on the village green. After being suitable refreshed we left Dadlington along a quiet lane to re-join the canal for a short period passing several lovely decorated narrow boats. Next stop was for ice creams at Sutton Cheney canal wharf before final half mile back to car park.

Tuesday 21st April 2020. Not Stathern and the Vale of Belvoir

We didn't get to do our group walk again, and this time we didn't get to walk around the Vale of Belvoir. However Steve and I pre-walked the route in early March just before lockdown so this is what we didn't get to do. We didn't start from the Plough Inn and walk through the village and around the churchyard to pick up the footpath towards Harby. We didn't have to cross the abandoned railway nor walk up the Green Lane into Harby. We wouldn't have missed a turn and walked up someone driveway before finding the backlane though the village. We wouldn't have noticed that the fields were getting softer underfoot as we walked down to the canal and along the towpath. At Stathern Bridge we wouldn't have crossed back over the canal and walked half a mile up the road before realizing we had gone the wrong way! At the next bridge we wouldn't have entered a wood along a muddy, slippery track nor slithered through a farm paddock full of sheep. From Plungar we hopefully wouldn't have found 3 or 4 fields that resembled the Somme where the mud was ankle deep for the next two or three miles and we wouldn't have had to divert onto a busy road instead. We wouldn't have returned to Stathern at 2.15 to find the pub about to close as it would now be closed anyway. We wouldn't have walked 7.5 miles. Today was a lovely day and the views would have been lovely too. Hopefully it wouldn't have been as muddy as early March. Maybe we will have a chance to enjoy it properly before too long.

Tuesday 7th April 2020. Carsington Reservoir Non-walk

Today is the first day we have missed a walk since we started the walking group nearly 10 years ago. The plan was to walk around Carsington Reservoir in Derbyshire.

We didn't walk from Sheepwash carpark thru Carsington and Hopton, along the lane, before crossing the Ashbourne to Wirksworth road to join the track around the east side of the reservoir. We didn't have a coffee break. Eventually we didn't come to the dam. We didn't walk over it to the Visitor Centre which was closed, before notwalking up the west side of the reservoir back to the cars. It was a beautiful spring day, and we didn't walk nearly 8miles. Here are some pics of the reservior, which weren't taken today, to show what we missed!

Tuesday 17th March 2020. Hartshorne and Repton shrubs and Repton Common

There were 21 walkers today. We walked about 7miles on this spring morning. Sadly we could not lunch togethor because the Bulls Head was closed due to the restrictions imposed by the Government in response to the Corona Virus Crisis. Since then restrictions have been tightened which prevents us driving anywhere to start a walk or to walk in groups. So until restrictions are lifted there will be no more walks.

Tuesday 3rd March 2020. Dadlington, Leics

A dry but cool winter's morning saw 17 of us assemble at the Dog and Hedgehog, Dadlington. We walked down the lane a bit before heading off over the muddy fields, crossing the Ashby Canal, through the Bosworth Battlefield Centre and eventually stopping for coffee whilst using the seats at Shenton Railway station. We contiued through Shenton village before heading off over fields again back to Dadlington. We then had a lovely lunch in the Dog and Hedgehog pub. Walk distance was about 7miles.

Monday 17th February 2020. Hoby and Frisby on the Wreake

Despite the very wet weather of the previous few days nine good friends, Ashby U3A members, set off from the Bluebell Inn, Hoby at 10 o'clock sharp. The party headed south following the course of the Midshires Way in a cool breeze with some weak sunshine. On reaching Gaddesby we briefly travelled east and then north on the Leicestershire Round. Unsurprisingly the going was always muddy and occasionally very slippery accounting for the walk leader sliding gracefully into some mud twice. No harm done just damaged pride! The evidence of earlier flooding around Frisby on the Wreake was very clear but we were still able to make our path travelling west back to Hoby. The approximately 8 mile walk was achieved in relatively good weather and excellent time so we could enjoy the fare and company at The Bluebell Inn.

Tuesday 4th February 2020. Conkers

Seventeen walkers set off from the Lakeside Lodge, Shortheath, near Moira, for walk through the National Forest, on a cool, breezy and overcast day. We walked a footpath leading to Spring Cottage and then onto a track around a flooded clay pit known as Albert Village lake. From here we crossed the road and followed a gravel track to Conkers Discovery Centre where we stopped for a drink and snacks. This is also a former industrial site now planted with thousands of trees as part of the National Forest. Then under a railway bridge and into Conkers Waterside, around Sarahs Wood and onto a bridge over the Ashby Canal, a section not connected to the main canal network. Following the canal towpath we came to Moira Furnace, and viewed the well preserved Blast Furnace dating back to the early 19 century, and several lime kilns of similar age. Leaving the canal we crossed to the main trail, a disused railway track now used for the Conkers Parkrun and down steps onto a minor road. After covering a distance of 8 miles we were ready for lunch and a drink back at the Lakeside Lodge

Tuesday 21st January 2020. Swadlincote and Bretby Park

17 walkers met at the Railway Inn, Swadlincote. After pre/ordering lunch we set off onto a footpath by the grade 2 listed flour mill, after a short detour (we took a wrong turn) we continued through Sandholes parkland to the A511, which we crossed. It was then through the fields towards Hartshorne to the Reston Burn (brook) where we viewed the remains of Hudsons mill, a corn mill last worked in 1916 but closed due to lack of workers. We then passed through Hoofis farm to the edge of Hoofis wood. After a coffee stop with lovely sunshine (Judith please note) we continued up the bray / hill then on between the lakes of Bretby Hall. We passed the Hall walking along the drive back to the A511 which we again crossed and walked through footpaths and roads back to Ureka Park. We walked through the park to the Railway Inn for a nice lunch and refreshments. We walked about 6miles.

Tuesday 7th January 2020. Around Derby

This weeks walk was inspired by the desire to avoid mud, which has been a feature of the last 4 or 5 walks. It was an urban walk in Derby. We set off northwards, from our meeting place at Alvaston Park, and followed the River Derwent on paths and roads along or near to the river bank. We passed around Pride Park and after a mile or so crossed by footbridge to the east side of the river for a little way before crossing back at Exeter Bridge. Sadly the river bank path between Exeter Bridge passing the Silk Mill, the worlds oldest factory, is not currently in use because of the building work creating new flood defences, so a diversion via Full St was necessary. We did pause for a while at the Silk Mill, while our leader, Judith, called in the Old Silk Mill pub to order our lunches. From here we continued to, and crossed Handyside Bridge, built for the Northern Railway, to Chester Green and walked again on the east side of the river through Darley Fields to Darley Mills where we crossed back over the river. This was the furthest point of our walk so we now headed south through Darley Park and back to the pub for beer for some, and lunch. After lunch we walked into the City, down Iron Gate to the Market Place, we passed the Council House and into the River Gardens and back to the River Bank and the walk back to Alvaston Park. Although we did not have mud we did have rain. There were 18 of us and we walked nearly 7 miles.

Tuesday 17th December 2019. Ashby to Swannington

This was the last walk of 2019, the 23rd of the year. We set off on a linear walk from Featherbed Lane in Ashby on a cold, dull, slightly misty but dry morning, We crossed the A42 at Flagstaff Island and joined the bridleway through Rough Park, down to Lount Nature Reserve where we paused for coffee etc. We continued crossing the main road at Gelsmoor into Coleorton and turning right through the Christmas tree farm to Aqueduct Road, through the Woolrooms onto Stoney Lane and then up Bakewells Lane, all the while avoiding potentially flooded and water logged paths. Off Bakewells we took a shortcut path up to the A511, a mistake as this one was overgrown! A short walk along the main road then before turning up Mill Lane to Hough Mill, with its new sails. It was then down the hill over Swannington Common into Swannington village and the Robin Hood to meet 4 non-walking members for a lovely lunch. There were 11 walkers and we walked about 6 miles in 3 hours. Some of the group were able to scrounge lifts back to Ashby in the cars of the non-walkers, others used their bus passes on the 29 bus.

Tuesday 3rd December 2019. Newtown Linford, Woodhouse Eaves and Bradgate Park

Ten smiling even happy ramblers set off from the Bradgate pub, in Newtown Linford at approximate 10:00, all of us enjoying the clear skies and bright sunshine which stayed with us all of the way. The going was fair to good with plenty of sticky mud in parts, but considering the weather of recently weeks we could have expected much worse. Our clockwise route took us north from Newtown Linford through open countryside with good clear views of Old John and the surrounding countryside. At Woodhouse Eaves we headed south through the splendid Swithland Woods that looked truly magnificent with a low winter sun and blue skies. We then walked through Bradgate Park, passing the information centre back to Newtown Linford. Our efforts were rewarded at the Bradgate with splendid fare and even better ale! Walk distance 8 miles.

Tuesday 19th November 2019. Around Heather

A cool winters day but with no rain but lots of mud. The walk started from Heather, down Pisca Lane turning south past the sewage works and then west passing Heather Hall. Then it was past Cattows Farm before going through Sence Valley Forrest Park back to Heather for a very good, inexpensive lunch at the Queens Head. Walk distance was about 6miles with 17 walkers.

Tuesday 5th November 2019. Mapperley and Shipley Park, Derbyshire

Thirteen walkers gathered in the car park of the Old Black Horse pub on a cool and cloudy morning. Prior to setting off we heard how Shipley Country Park was created from land subject to 250 years of intensive coal mining. The Park now has over a million trees, covers about 700 acres and, best of all, 3 cafes and a Visitor Centre! We walked north alongside Mapperley Reservoir then turned south through woods and across a very water-logged field and two wooden bridges. Passing the first of the cafes we walked uphill through more woodland with a view of Shipley Lake on our right with the site of the former theme park, American Adventure on the far side. Now on a tarmac path we passed Nottingham Lodge and the second cafe at the top of the hill. The various carvings of animals and posters near the path showed the Parks association with the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. At the highest point of the walk we had our coffee stop at the Visitor Centre where there was a canopy that provided shelter from a brief rain shower. Following the shore of another lake we saw several Mallards, Canada Geese and a beautiful solitary Mandarin Duck. Walking downhill mostly on good paths we arrived back at the pub earlier than usual and even enjoyed some sunshine in the final mile. The distance was 6.2 miles and the pace 2.7 mph, one of the fastest U3A walks I have recorded, possibly due to the good paths and the absence of stiles. We then lunched at the Old Black Horse pub.

Tuesday 15th October 2019. Ashford in the Water, Derbys

Following a very wet Early October we picked on a dry day for this mornings walk. Eleven of us met at the Ashford Arms at Ashford in the Water near Bakewell. Instead of the usual group picture outside the pub we gathered at what is known as the sheep dip bridge. After leaving the village we climbed a short hill before turning onto a well sign-posted path to Monsal Head where we stopped for banana and coffee, admiring the view of the river, the valley and the viaduct. The second part of the journey took us down a steep path to the viaduct and entrance to the old railway tunnel and Monsal Trail before a further and muddy climb down to the river Wye below. We now followed a path along the river before crossing a small fast running stream climbing out of the valley and across the A6 and a return for lunch.

Tuesday 1st October 2019. Ticknall and Calke Park

Following a very wet night and morning deluge ten brave walkers met in the dry at the Staff of Life Ticknall. Despite the dryish interlude we all came prepared in full weather gear including umbrellas. Due to the forecast and very wet conditions we abandoned our planned walk and kept to the lime kilns track. We set off in the dry though the Lime Kilns and tunnel under the main drive of Calke Abbey. We arrived for our coffee and banana stop to sit in the dry on the new benches under cover in the barns at the rear of Calke House. While we sat there the heavy rain started again so we shortened our walk but still managed six miles arriving at the Staff of Life very wet for our well deserved lunch.

Tuesday 17th September 2019. Hartshill, Atherston

Twelve members of the walking group met at the Anchor Inn Hartshil on a very warm and sunny day. Having pre ordered food for our return at 1.30 pm we set off along the Coventry Canal following its twists and turns until we reached Bridge No 38. Here we left the canal and followed a track leading up towards a very pleasant golf club. The yellow way markers took us past the club house and alongside the edge of the fairway until we reached the road to Ridge Lane. We walked along the road for 200 yards before picking up the track to Mancetter Farm where we stopped for a short break. Then, having crossed the fields and lanes to Oldbury village we stopped to admire the views from Hartshill Ridge before walking through Hartshill Hayes Country Park and back to lunch at the Anchor Inn.

Tuesday 3rd September 2019. Monyash and Lathkill Dale

Today 16 of us met in Monyash after a 52 mile drive. It was a warm sunny morning contrary to the forecast which was for it to be cool and cloudy. After a short delay trying to find public toilets in Monyash, there are none, and finding and using some in the unlocked village hall, much to the concern of the caretaker who had forgotten to lock the door, we set off on the walk. We walked passing the church and joined the Limestone Way. We passed through One Ash Grange Farm and down the steep path into Cales Dale and then Lathkill Dale. It was here that the leader had a mental block, and took us the wrong way! The situation was recovered after a stop for coffee and bananas etc by climbing steeply out of Lathkill Dale and up Ricklow Dale, and after a short walk down the road, up Bagshaw Dale and back into Monyash from the North. By this time the skies had clouded and for the last few hundred meters we had light drizzle but it was not wetting enough to cause or to put our waterproofs on. We walked about 6 miles which was a little less than planned.

Tuesday 20th August 2019. Trent Lock and Attenborough Nature Reserve led by Paul McKay

Fifteen walkers assembled on a warm and sunny morning for this walk that must be one of the flattest done by the group. After walking to the footpath alongside the River Trent we stopped for a short orientation briefing on the waterways at this busy junction, noting the Erewash canal, the River Soar and Cranfleet Cut, a short canal that bypassed a weir on the Trent. We followed the Trent downstream for about 2 miles before turning left over a bridge and into the Nature Reserve. By 11.30 we had reached the Visitors Centre with picnic tables, cafe and toilets for the obligatory coffee stop. On the return leg we took the countryside, skirted around a childrens playground and negotiated a short steep slope to bring us back to Cranfleet Cut. Here we were treated to a demonstration of the workings of the lock gates, with some our group helping to pull open a lock gate, as two narrow boats entered to lock...all very entertaining and educational! After a short distance along the river path we climbed a stile (highest point of the walk, maybe?), through a tunnel under the railway and arrived back at Trent Lock.

Tuesday 6th August 2019. Branston and Vale of Belvoir led by Tony

On Tuesday 6th August last, 16 members of the walking group met at the Wheel Inn Branston for a walk in the Vale of Belvoir. Branston is an attractive Iron Stone village that was built above the River Devon to avoid flooding. We set off down the hill out of the village and followed the course of a small stream before crossing the stream and climbing up to the road. After a short walk along the road we entered the forested area and had great views over the Vale of Belvoir. On the ridge we stopped to look at the stone beacon which was one of 6 errected in 1588 to give warning of the impending Spanish Armada. Following the Jubilee Way we descended the hill and followed it around the hill until it joined Toft's Lane. The lane led up to Sherricliffe Farm and then led on to a track across fields and back to the Wheel Inn. There we were joined for lunch by 2 other members of the group who had not been able to do the walk.

Tuesday 16th July 2019. Abbots Bromley linear walk led by Mike and Joan

With a hot, sunny and dry day in prospect, 10 stalwarts arrived in Abbots Bromley for a repeat of the 6.8 mile inaugural 'linear walk' tackled in October 2016. After sorting out the lunch arrangements at the Crown Inn, we caught the 9.48 Midland Classic 403 bus to Balance Hill on the outskirts of Uttoxeter. Heading down Timber Lane, we joined the Staffordshire Way and followed it southwards, through Bagot's Park and back to our starting point. Heavy going in places, with thick and/or tall grass and a few overgrown stretches, it was noted that we traversed a total of 32 stiles (and were able to bypass another 5), equalling the record set in November 2015 (on another walk near Abbots Bromley!). An excellent lunch and a well-deserved drink at the very hospitable Crown Inn rounded off the day.

Tuesday 2nd July 2019. 3 country parks, led by Jane Barnett

17 walkers set off from Staunton Harold on a sunny but slightly cooler and cloudier day than the weekend. The walk took in 3 old country parks; Staunton Harold, Melbourne and Calke Abbey and finished up walking through a nature reserve. After leaving the grounds of Staunton Harold we criss-crossed and traversed several footpaths to arrive in time for a welcome refreshment stop by Melbourne Pool. On leaving Melbourne we skirted the fine Norman church and Tithe Barn and headed towards Staunton Harold reservoir where we had our picnic lunch stop at the handily placed picnic benches. Interestingly, the reservoir was 84% full according to an information board. Our final old country park was Calke Abbey and then it was up the driveway and past the church into Dimminsdale Nature Reserve to finally exit onto the driveway up to Staunton Harold and our starting point. A total of 8.64 miles walked. It was noticeable how lush and green everywhere looked with wheat ripening in the fields. An added bonus was that the boots did not need mud scrapping off them on our return to the car park. A very enjoyable walk.

Tuesday 18th June 2019. Tideswell, led by Trev and Val

13 keen walkers left the George Inn in Tideswell on sunny and humid day, heading down the high street to the Wye river via the lovely Tideswell Dale to meet the river near to Cressbrook Dale and then follow the river to our drink stop under the rock cliff at Water-cum-Jolly Dale. After refreshments the walk took an uphill turn and then a steep downhill into Cressbrook Dale where we could see the remains of a dried up river bed, we then continued up the dale and turned left into Tansley Dale which was the final uphill part or the walk. On reaching the top it was a relatively easy walk via a number of fields with various stepping styles set in the dry stone walls before reaching a road near Litton for our return to Tideswell for a very nice meal and to sample the local beer.

Tuesday 4th June 2019. Chatsworth, led by Kevin & Chris

The day started with a wet journey up the M1 and though Chesterfield. Sixteen of us arrived at the Wheatsheaf pub to find not sunny, but drier conditions. After the normal photograph we set off and entered the Chatsworth estate though an unusual cage like kissing gate. (see photo) Following the estate path we could see the huge water feature jet and magnificent house with newly cleaned stonework and gold leaf. Approaching the bridge in front of the house to cross the river, we were confronted by the annual RHS flower show being set up, so we had to make a small diversion before re-joining the path along side the river. After the usual banana and coffee stop, we continued on up the only climb of the day to be rewarded with lovely views from the hunting lodge. This was followed by a tricky decent down the hillside to re-join the estate path back to Baslow and lunch.

Tuesday 21st May 2019. Mam Tor and Losehill Pike, led by John D

On a glorious sunny morning eleven intrepid walkers assembled on the dot of 10 am in Castleton Car Park. After a bout of juggling coins for the coins-only meters we set off.

Crossing south of the main road we walked past the access to the Peak Cavern, up the quaintly named Goose Hill and out of town. The path led quickly onto the hillside and curved round westward past Speedwell Cavern. Steeply uphill to the Visitors' Centre for Treak Cavern we began to climb again. As we contoured around past the Blue John Cavern we lost sight of Mam Tor which had dominated our view thus far.

All the time a fresh breeze was keeping us cool. A short pause at a gate at the crest of this section helped restore us, then we topped a short rise to see the alternative routes up Mam Tor itself. We opted for the longer but easier way up. This took us northwards up to Mam Nick which is where the road passes over into Edale. Here we stopped for a coffee break, before attacking the summit by the now direct route. Beside the path, inset into the slabs, were small brass plaques with motifs noting the Bronze and Iron Age history of the site.

Here, at the highest point at 517 metres (1696 feet) we had stunning views of all the countryside around and the undulating ridge ahead. It was pretty breezy on top so jackets came out, but we strode on down-slope, now eastwards with the wind at our backs, to Hollins Cross where the main walkers' way crosses to Castleton from Edale. On went the party, eventually coming to a halt at the base of Back Tor, a precipitous staircase climb to test legs already feeling the distance. We had the choice of taking the low road and bypassing this and Losehill Pike tops completely, but the team would have none of it. So, up we went.

This obstacle overtopped, the final objective hove into view: Losehill Pike on a section of National Trust land called Ward's Piece. The last stretch to the summit pillar at 476 metres (1562 feet) was relatively easy and having taken photos and scrutinised the very useful brass plate on the pillar showing distances and directions to all the main features, we settled down out of the wind on the south flank with magnificent views over the valley, and to the horizon southwards, to take lunch. So comfy were we that some stretched out and had to be persuaded to rise for the descent.

This was a steady descent through fields and along leafy lanes back directly to the Car Park, where, with 7 miles completed and after coffee and cakes at the car park cafe, we returned home, all safely back by 5 pm. A truly Grand Day Out.

Tuesday 7th May 2019. Old Dalby. Led by Tony

The walking group met at The Crown Inn Old Dalby and set off across the village using a series of alley ways that led directly from the pub garden. We passed across the village green and took the lane by the church and then a footpath across fields towards Old Dalby woods.We climbed the hill giving us a good view of the former Nottingham to Melton Mowbray railway line now used as a test track for testing London underground trains amongst others. Walking through Mariotts Spinney and Cromptons Plantation we crossed Old Dalby lane and headed for Nether Broughton where we stopped for tea or coffee. We then circled back to Old Dalby via Upper Broughton taking the tunnel which goes under the railway line mentioned above. The route was just under 7 miles long and having set off at 10am we were back at the pub by 1.30pm for a well earned lunch.

Tuesday 16th April 2019. Middleton by Wirksworth

Starting at the Rising Sun Inn in Middleton-by-Wirksworth, 19 walkers set forth on a cool but dry morning. After a short way along the main road we entered the car park for the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, and walked along a narrow gauge railway. This was a restored remnant of the many quarry railways in the area. We climbed up steps to the site of very old lead mine workings and spoil heaps, The Gang Mine Nature Reserve. From here, we had a panoramic view of a huge working quarry. Retracing our steps, we followed a footpath and crossed a road to Black Rocks. After a steady climb to the flat top of the rocks, we enjoyed a glorious (but misty) view of the Derwent valley with Riber Castle on the horizon. After a meander through the woods above the rocks, we descended to the High Peak Trail for a short coffee break. Then it was the challenge of the Middleton Incline, with artefacts of the mechanism that lowered wagons full of limestone and raised empty wagons between the railway levels. Thankfully, at Middleton Top, there was seating for a short recovery period and time to take in the information on the very old steam engine that powered The Incline. Westward, to a footpath past a derelict farm and a short road section before entering a footpath on a disused quarry road. This lead us upward through a wood which cleared to give us better views of the valley to the north and of Black Rocks. Descending steep steps we arrived back on the main road through Middleton with the pub only a short level walk away. Overall, a walk of varied terrain and quite challenging at times. 6.4 miles.

Tuesday 2nd April 2019. Wysall, Notts. Led by James Bloor.

19 members of the Long Walks Group took heed of the weather forecast and dressed accordingly for a 7.5 mile stroll through rolling Nottinghamshire countryside. From Wysall we walked north-east to the outskirts of Keyworth, where we turned south-east uphill on Wolds Lane before heading south to North Lodge Farm. Here a thick hedge offered shelter from the wind and rain for our coffee stop. We continued through the delightful village of Widmerpool before enjoying extensive views over fields and woods to the south. Our route now took us westwards, through fields and small woods back to the lovely village of Wysall for a well-deserved lunch at The Plough Inn. We had an interesting encounter with a dozen young and inquisitive bullocks and walked through a couple of fields holding horses.

Tuesday 19th March 2019. Hatton Locks, Warks. Led by Kevin and Chris Green.

On a dull March morning 14 of us gathered at the Hatton Car park at the top of a flight of 21 locks. After the traditional photo outside the nearby cafe we ordered lunch and set off along the canal. Soon we crossed a bridge and continued across several fields arriving at Haseley Parish church for coffee and banana stop. Setting off again we passed by the old Hatton Hall asylum to re-join the canal at the bottom of the 21 locks an impressive sight. After a steady climb and 8.5 miles later, we arrived back for an outdoor lunch the first of the year.

Tuesday 5th March 2019. Over Haddon, Derbys led by Bob Baxendale

Today we did the 200th walk in the nine and a half years since the Walking Group, and Ashby U3A, were formed. The first walk was on the 10th August 2010 and we did about 5 miles from Staunton Harold around Calke Abbey with a stop at the tea room. It was warm & sunny, and there were 10 of us.

This time the walk set off from Over Haddon, Nr Bakewell, after driving an hour from Ashby. There were 24 of us today and we set off, after the obligatory start of walk group photo outside of the Lathkil Hotel, on the footpath downhill to Conksbury Bridge, with views back up Lathkill Dale. After crossing the bridge we continued down Lathkill Dale to Alport, where the Bradford River joins the Lathkill River. We then walked up Bradford Dale almost to its end before climbing out passing Lomberdale Hall, and the end of Long Rake, over the top to Meadow Place Grange. We passed through the farm yard here before dropping back down into Lathkill Dale, and out the other side up the steep climb to Over Haddon and a buffet lunch at the Lathkil Hotel. (And yes they spell it with just one l).

It was a lovely cool, sunny but windy winter's day which resulted in great visibility and fabulous views. We walked about 6 miles.

After lunch Bob was somewhat surprised to be presented with a framed map of the walk we had just completed. Steve Jennings gave a humorous speech thanking Bob for organising the Walking Group from the very beginning, and for all the 200 walks. Steve had arranged for the map frame to be demountable so that all those present could sign it. It will be taken to the next couple of walks so that as many people as possible can sign it.

Tuesday 19th February 2019. Swarkestone, Stanton and Kings Newton led by Paul

Twenty three walkers set off from the Crewe and Harpur pub in Swarkestone, on a bright and fresh morning, for a 7 mile walk around the south side of the Trent Valley. After pre-ordering lunch, we set off in single file over a narrow footpath on Swarkestone Bridge and turned off onto the Ingleby road. Once over a stile onto the floodplain of the Trent we had a good view of the bridge structure. The various modifications and strengthening work since the original build in the 13th century were evident. Paul gave a short history of the bridge and its current Grade 1 Listed and Scheduled Ancient Monument status. Then we walked up a slope into Stanton by Bridge with a view over the Trent valley to the north. After crossing the busy A514 we followed Wards Lane, the route of the original road to Kings Newton, and stopped at Holy Well, an ancient watering hole, for mid-walk refreshments. We then entered the picturesque hamlet of Kings Newton going through the cemetery and a footpath to get back to the road. We followed a footpath alongside Kings Newton Hall down to the Cloud Trail, the route of a disused railway on a high embankment. At Sarson's Bridge we went west along the Trent and Mersey Canal towpath before following a footpath back to Swarkestone. We stopped at Swarkestone Pavilion to gather up the group and hear a brief history of this Grade 1 Listed building. It was then only a short stroll over fields back to the Crewe and Harpur for a well-earned meal and a drink. 6.9miles.

Tuesday 5th February 2019. Snarestone, Measham and the Ashby Canal led by Jill & Judith

Thirty walkers (yes, thirty) set off today from The Globe at Snarestone for a circular walk along the original line of the Ashby Canal and back via the Heritage trail and Ivanhoe Way. We walked along the tow path of the navigable part initially at Snarestone and walked on past the old pumping station and then followed lost stretches of the Canal where possible. These were obvious in places e.g. by the Gilwiskaw brook where there was once an aqueduct and beyond. At Measham we lost the canal because it had been built on in the town, but we met up with it at High Street, walking down to the canal bed by the disused Empire Cinema (1932) where we had coffee. The tunnels had been filled in, sadly and the bed was tarmac now, so it was more industrial heritage than scenic. We continued along the canal route following the hedgerow, passing more modern houses and gardens along the canal bed. We returned via the heritage trail, formerly the Ashby/Nuneaton railway line, past Measham station which is now a museum, then on to the Ivanhoe Way back to Snarestone, via the playing fields, to The Globe for a very enjoyable lunch.

Tuesday 15th January 2019. Ashby, Heath End and Smisby led by Tony Smith

A record large group of 28 members (including 6 new ones) all met at the group leader's home in Featherbed Lane Ashby on a clear and sunny morning to pick up the Ivanhoe Way out of Ashby towards Staunton. The path runs behind the biscuit factory and under the Ashby bypass towards Old Parks Farm and then runs to the North of Alistairs Wood. We stopped for a coffee break just short of Heath End and then we entered South Wood going uphill towards the open fields. The path then took us via Wickets Nook Cottage and Pistern Hill farm before we crossed the main road and had lunch at the Smisby Arms. The group returned to Ashby via various paths running parallel with Smisby Rd and Nottingham Rd. We walked about 8 miles total.

Tuesday 3rd April 2018. Thornton

16 started from Thornton on a fine morning. Heading down the valley to cross the railway, past some fishing ponds and through Royal Tigers wood to Bagworth, returning to Thornton village to then walk a circuit of the reservoir. Due to several days of heavy rain, the going was heavy to say the least! One pathway was obstructed by a newly formed stream whilst later we made a detour through the hedgerow to skirt around the edge of a large flood in a dip in a field. We returned in the rain to the Bricklayers Arms in Thornton for lunch.

Tuesday 20th March 2018. Coleorton

16 members of the walking group assembled at The Angel Inn on Coleorton Moor on 20th March. THe walk took us across fields towards Farm Town and then on towards Flagstaff Island. The path crossed under the A512 and then struck off towards New Lount Woods and then Peggs Green. En route we passed the restored communal bakehouse on Coleorton Moor and the Windmill off St George's Hill before returning to The Angel Inn for lunch.

Tuesday 6th March 2018. Hartshorne

20 happy strollers set off from The Bulls Head in Hartshorne at 10 o'clock proceeding down the hill past the Admiral Rodney pub and turning left at the Mill Wheel. Yes a lot of our walking group navigation is done by public houses! Despite the rapid thawing of several inches of snow and a lot of rain the previous night the going wasn't as difficult as we had all expected. Our route took us past Carver rocks and through many small woods and plenty of open country with some good views which were enjoyed by all. Most of the walking was done on footpaths between The A514 and a B5006. The weather had been particularly kind to us, in fact we enjoyed some sunshine for the second half of the 6 1/2 mile walk and returned early to the pub where we all enjoyed good fare, good ale, if little cold for my preference, and as always great company.

Tuesday 20th February 2018. Worthington

Thirteen members and one visitor gathered outside The Malt Shovel, Worthington on a fine, sunny morning. We set off through the village to pick up the Ivanhoe Way for a short distance. We then crossed over our first golf course of the day to arrive at Breedon having encountered the inevitable mud on the way, and set off on the steep climb to the church which contains some of the finest examples of Saxon sculptures in Great Britain. After a refreshing coffee/banana/chocolate biscuit stop admiring the far reaching views it was down the hill (shades of the Grand old Duke of York here). Before reaching the village of Wilson we went over our second golf course of the day. After passing through the village we got into the Cloud trail and had a gentle, flat and easy walk back to the pub for lunch. The Malt Shovel does not normally do food on Tuesdays but did so for us and made us welcome.

The 8.5 miles walk was done at a cracking pace today and we arrived back at the pub just over 3 hours 15 minutes later. According to people's gadgets we averaged 2.68 miles per hour. Don't quite know how we managed that but having no stiles to negotiate probably helped. Throughout the walk there were encouraging signs of spring with many clusters of snowdrops and Catkin laden trees.

Tuesday 6th February 2018. Snarestone, Newton Burgoland and Shackerstone

Twenty-one of us gathered at The Globe, Snarestone on a cold but otherwise bright morning. After a short walk up the Main street and Quarry Lane we turned right up footpath to be watched by some fluffy brown and white Alpacas running around in the adjacent field. We continued over several muddy stiles and through a new plantation of the National Forest and on to the outskirts of Swepstone. Crossing a further field, a flock of sheep blocked our path before all running away as we headed for the next finger post across the field. After several more stiles and considerably more mud we passed though Newton Burgoland and onto Shackerstone to join the canal towpath with even more mud back to The Globe for a pleasant lunch.

Tuesday 16th January 2018. Burton on Trent, Tatenhill and the Trent Valley

Twenty walkers gathered at The Albion public house in Burton upon Trent for the walk in sunny and mild weather. After a short walk along Shobnall Road we turned onto the footpath and over two stiles that led to a climb up to the ancient Sinai Park House. The next 2 miles were very wet underfoot with a couple of difficult stiles because of the amount of water and mud around them. On the plus side, the strong winds did not materialise and we enjoyed good views...when you could look up from concentrating on avoiding the next mud patch! Onward into Tatenhill village we turned at the Three Horsehoes public house towards Branston Water Park. Here we had a well-earned coffee break with the luxury of picnic tables and pleasant views over the water. It was then relatively easy going along the Trent and Mersey canal towpath, over a bridge and into Shobnall playing fields. One last challenge awaited; a hundred steps up a steep bank in Oaks Wood and then it was a short descent back to The Albion for food and drink.

Tuesday 2nd January 2018. Swannington

Fourteen of us set off from The Robin Hood pub in Swannington on what the forecasters had predicted would be a wet day. As we ascended the hill towards Limby Hall Lane a light drizzle descended but soon turned into more persistent rain. We took the path to the left of the Smock Mill emerging onto Moor Lane. To avoid as many wet fields as possible we followed Moor Lane to the very top and then took Pitt Lane to the path which led down to Coleorton School and St John's Chapel on the old Ashby Rd (the road in use until the current A512 by pass was built in 1992/1993). St John's chapel was built in the 19th century for the workers of the Coleorton Estate and for villagers who were unable to climb up the hill to St Mary's Church which is next to Coleorton Hall. We took the lanes down into Coleorton and out via Aqueduct Rd over which the tramway from the Swannington Incline crossed. We could still see the stone abutments. We then walked along the route of the tramway towards Peggs Green. From there the tramway went into a long tunnel long since filled in and of which very little evidence survives. Crossing the A512 we followed Mill Lane to the Smock Mill (otherwise called Hough Mill) which is restored inside and which opens to visitors on Sunday afternoons in the Summer months. We also saw the Iron Sculptures depicting the area's mining heritage. By this time we were all very wet so we cut short the walk to return to Swannington and a welcome lunch in the pub

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