2012

JANUARY 11        Jean & Roger's Poynton walk.
Report on the Walk
14 joined Roger and Jean Drinkwater for the inaugural Tuesday walk.  From the Miners Arms on Wood Lane North we followed the lane to Lockgate Farm, then continued to the Shrigley Road and the chapel by Lyme West Parkgate. The walk skirted Green and Throstlenest Farms, and bridged the canal for a coffee stop.

An attractive shaded path led to the considerably refurbished Hagg Farm, a tricky section through to Poynton Coppice, an easy stroll to Wards End, to return on the far side of the Coppice, and the lane back to the Miners.
It had been cool and dull, but dry and brightening later, although rather damp and muddy underfoot. We had encountered other walking groups on the way, from AstraZeneca Pensioners and Age Concern, with some walkers that some of us knew – popular sport walking!

The pub gave us a room to ourselves, with plenty of reasonably priced typical pub food, so we thanked Roger and Jean for their well judged walk and thoughtful organisation, which made a good start for our first Tuesday walk!

JANUARY 26        Brian & Alison's Buxton walk.
Report on the Walk
Alison Allerton greeted us, and took a party of 19 on a 5 mile part of the new “Ring of Trees” walk which now encircles Buxton. From Gadley Lane, the route traversed the Cavendish golf course in benign sunshine, with golfers already out and about, before turning at Watford Farm steeply up to The Beet, and then gradually down to Bishop’s Lane with outstanding views over Buxton.  There were intriguing glimpses of imposing houses and the line of the former rail line from Whaley Bridge to Ashbourne.
As we circled round from Plex Farm and Shay Lodge towards Burbage, the sky became more grey, but that mattered little in the woodland paths of Grin Plantation, where imposing trees disguise the vestiges of 17C and 18C quarries and lime burning kilns.  A quick descent past Poole’s Cavern, down imposing avenues, and through the Pavilion Gardens, led our group to the cafe where Brian was waiting to meet us (his injured knee playing him up a bit).  A very pleasant meal was the ideal conclusion to our first trip to Buxton – thanks Alison and Brian.
  
FEBRUARY 23
Report on the Walk
Overnight rain had ceased as a group of 22 walkers set off from the Royal Hotel, Hayfield along the attractively wooded Sett Valley Trail, led by Sam and Irene Chappell. Our route skirted the peaceful lower mill reservoir, nowadays reserved for fishermen, and rose towards Lower Cliff, with one particularly muddy stretch to negotiate.


Shortly we climbed up below Upper Cliffe Farm, when our scenic coffee stop was rudely curtailed by a renewal of rain, which intensified as the walk continued, and left several stretches quite slippy.


At Little Hayfield a few peeled off on field paths by badger setts on an easier return route, whilst the hardy majority took the steep path from Park Hall up the thick wetting bracken of Middle Moor, before returning on the Snake Path to the Royal Hotel.

There was a pleasant room reserved for us, with some generous pensioners specials, so that the rain and mud were soon forgotten as we thanked Sam and Irene for their somewhat challenging, but very interesting walk. 

MARCH 8
Report on the Walk
Spring was in the air as 16 walkers joined David Lloyd at the Butley Ash for his 5 mile flattish walk:  pleasant field paths interspersed with glimpses of the rivers Bollin (in Prestbury) and Dean (nearing Bollington), surprisingly attractive stream valleys cheek by jowl with the Silk Road, and avenues of tall trees.

The sun had swept away the early frost.  Buzzards and new lambs made their presence felt as we left the imposing dwellings of Prestbury and made our way towards the older more typical houses of Whiteley Green and Butley Town, there graced with a multitude of spring bulbs.


Much of the walk was easy going, as the ground had dried well.  A few stretches of narrow roads were the only blemish on a lovely walk.

In common with other pubs, the Butley Ash gave us reasonably priced and nice food, but our varied requirements did pose them some problems.

MARCH 30
Report on the Walk
16 walkers, including 4 new members from the Open Day, joined Pat and Noel Christopher in Tideswell Dale, on one of the most attractive Derbyshire limestone walks.  The 5½ mile route passed through 7 dales, with an initial short excursion into the former dolerite and basalt quarry of Tideswell Rill.  Then it was gently downhill and along the river Wye, turning into a longish section up Cressbrook Dale, before we climbed out to Litton village.  Then it was all downhill back to our cars!
 
The walk was full of interest.  Discreet relics of former industry were everywhere – converted old mills, lead mine spoil heaps, mill dams, water leats, and old cottages.  Nature was showing signs of Spring – toads were unashamedly mating by the banks of the river Wye, and various spring flowers were starting to show an appearance (arabis, butterbur, wood anemone), but new leaves on the trees hadn’t yet hidden the many and varied views.

For a long time the threatened rain held off, but in the latter part of the walk, light rain started to make the limestone greasy, and some paths became a little tricky.  But nothing detracted from what was a lovely walk through the differing delights of Tideswell Dale, Millers Dale, Water-cum-Jolly Dale, Cressbrook Dale, Ravensdale, Tansley Dale, and Litton Dale, for which we all thanked Pat and Noel.


APRIL 27
Report on the Walk
Lovely weather and a lovely route were enjoyed by the 29 who came with Gerry and Jan Chartres. From Hague Bar car park we made the short climb up to the High Peak canal, followed by a steady walk along the towpath in warm sunshine with the surrounding greenery and pleasant views at their springtime best.

After a coffee stop, we passed Carr Farm (being renovated), bridged the River Goyt, admired the Llamas at Goytside Farm, before reaching the confluence of the Rivers Sett and Goyt, and the magical world which lies below New Mills town centre.  Bridges, viaducts and mill ruins now add fascinating charm to the formerly heavily industrialised gorges, and provided attractive surroundings for our packed lunches.


Although electricity is not currently being produced by the much vaunted Archimedial screw system, the earlier Millenium bridge was still going strong and quickly transported us to the thickly wooded river banks beyond.  The paths were dry, the river was low but sparkling, stiles were easy kissing gates, and a gentle stroll soon brought us back to our cars, with lots of praise to Jan and Gerry for their choice of walk.


MAY 10
Report on the Walk
John McCartney led an “elite” group of 7 from Laneside Road end, New Mills on his I-Spy walk, a reprise from 4  years ago.  It was a dry, blustery day, which had fitful spells of sunshine, with new vistas constantly unfolding, as we circled round the rather sprawling mass of Chinley Churn, gradually climbing to the top, for a sunny picnic lunch by the “big stone”.
John had a list of features to spot on the way, and most were identified.  But the misty distant view made any sighting of the Great Orme impossible!
A cock crowed as we set off, and skylarks were everywhere.  Tormentil, cuckoo flower and masses of bilberry lined our later route.  But the real interest was in the views, and especially the stunning outlook from the “big stone”, and it was a well-satisfied group who thanked John after finishing the 5 mile walk.

MAY 25
Report on the Walk
25, including several relatively new to the group, joined Louanne and Peter Collins in a 5½ mile walk from Rushton Spencer.  The walk undulated over lush grassy pastures on either side of the River Dane as far as Wincle, criss-crossing and climbing between Staffordshire and Cheshire.  It was very pleasant countryside, with distant glimpses of the Roaches and The Cloud, a meander down the attractive valley of the River Dane, and forays into its feeder stream valleys.
A large bank of bluebells on a cool bank contrasted with early haymaking on a warm meadow.  Some of the party were startled by a couple of deer, who made quick work of the field boundaries.  But the progress of our fairly large party was slowed by a number of stiles, the only blemish on a very nice walk; which was rounded off afterwards by tasty and reasonable specials in the Knot Inn.  Peter and Louanne were well thanked for their efforts in organising the day.

JUNE 29
Report on the Walk
On the June walk, 31 sets of boots joined Ruth and Dave Smith for a 5 mile adventure.  As well as a good turn out of regular walkers, no doubt encouraged by our successful recent walking weekend, it was good to welcome new faces and boots.  After an unexpected shower at the start,  the clouds moved away and Mr Sun came out and so walking conditions were most pleasant.  We started at Whaley Bridge railway station and followed our leader up to the reservoir, through wooded paths, farm tracks and over moorland.  We stopped for lunch and were able to admire the views across the vale of Kettleshulme, we continued up towards the Moorside Hotel, but tragically the path turned off before we reached the main entrance – so no swift half or cup of coffee.  This was the high point of the walk and from then onwards it was downhill.  We had enjoyed views of Sponds Hill, Bowstones and Chinley Churn and had plenty of laughs and assistance over the many and varied stiles – one or two replicating an assault course.  We were back to base by mid afternoon with time to get home and watch Andy Murray on Centre Court!!

Judith Ridgway

JULY 12
Report on the Walk
The 10 year anniversary walk was a real challenge. Of the 14 starters, several had never climbed Kinderscout before, and most of the rest had fading memories from their youth of a longish, but not too difficult a climb, nothing like Scafell Pike or Ben Nevis, for instance.

Forty or so years on, we discovered that the slopes of Kinder seemed to have got much steeper, distances longer, the paths stonier and rougher, and our limbs less mobile.

But...  . But....., all but one of our group made it to Kinder Downfall and back, and the other got most of the way to the top; and in spite of legs feeling a little jelly-like on the return descent, and the threat of stiffness for the day after, the walk was voted a big success.

On a breezy, bright day, perfect for the occasion, we rediscovered the wide-ranging and lovely views, the fascinating gritstone rock formations, and the majesty of the Downfall amphitheatre, which have made Kinderscout such a favourite mountain for so many. Even though, on the day, the infant river Kinder was merely a trickle, and the reservoir looked sorely in need of rain.

We were all able to take massive pride in our ability to make it to the top – and we celebrated High Lane U3A’s 10 years with a sherry toast, proposed by Chairman Steve Reynolds.

An hour or so later, relaxed, and moving more freely on the gentler return down the wooded Kinder valley back to Hayfield, the fourteen walkers seemed able even to forgive the walk leader (myself), for devising such a devilish 8.6 mile walk with 1700 foot of ascent for the 10 year challenge – at least, I think they did!


Walter Mason

JULY 27
Report on the Walk
Richard and Susan Clark found a truly Cheshire walk to gladden the hearts of the several Cheshirites in our group.  22 members were led past several attractive meres, through a variety of crop fields and lush meadows, into the reaches of the Capesthorne estate of the Bromley Davenports, and by the ancient black and white Siddington church – made famous by the extrovert “corn dolly” speaker and farmer Raymond Rush – due to pay us another visit in December.


We started in warm sunshine by Redesmere, and returned there after 6½ enjoyable miles, as the cloud thickened, to a welcome ice cream van, who did a roaring trade!

The only downside had been the number of stiles and gates, none of them individually difficult, but combining to slow our passage and spread the group.  But on the way, we had been able to marvel at a giant puffball, sneak up on a resting buzzard, and admire a country bowling green, that could whet the appetite of any of our U3A bowlers.  So Richard and Sue got a big thank you afterwards from our group.

Walter Mason

AUGUST 31
Report on the Walk
On a grey, but pleasant, August day, John McCartney led 29 U3A walkers on an easy 5 mile walk from Millers Dale Station.  The walk combined the familiar delights of Water-cum-Jolly Dale with its fiercesome limestone rock overhangs and scenic former millponds, and the unfamiliar experience of the newly opened tunnels on the Monsal Trail. The two 500 yard tunnels were impressive, both for their original engineering and for the well lit and atmospheric interiors; their well advertised opening has enabled new circular routes to be established in the area.
Everybody seemed to enjoy the easy walking, attractive surroundings and views, and absence of stiles, and were impressed by the way that a former railway and mills could enjoy a new lease of life as a long distance trail and luxury flats respectively.  The only downsides were the fairly frequent encounters with bike riders and the lack of variety on the first section of the Monsal Trail.
John was complimented on his fine walk, particularly when there was a welcome ice cream van  back at Millers Dale which did a roaring trade!

Walter Mason

SEPTEMBER 13
Report on the Walk
In the wake of former Hurricane Katia, pleasant sunshine, a brisk breeze, and clear visibility provided lovely conditions for Sam’s walk.  From Disley, the route sneaked upwards on secluded footpaths beyond the Quaker Meeting House to join Green Lane at Stoneridge Farm.  Further on we were intrigued by the contrasting curios in a farm (unnamed on Ordnance Survey) by Long Lane.  Bollinhurst Bridge was still closed as unsafe, but walkers can now bypass on a rather ugly footbridge and wooden steps. The route turned sharply just before East Lodge (noting that Lyme Park was still closed due to fears of high winds and falling trees), and meandered over grass fields to Bolder Farm.  Just up the road, a footpath sign directed us onto a narrow grassy path winding up the 350 foot climb to 1300ft. Black Hill.
The climb became exhilarating as the breeze changed to a strong gale on the ridge, but a handy sheepfold provided a welcome lunch stop shelter, so we could admire the fantastic views in comfort.  Then it was a rapid descent down the narrow ridge and a turn at Longside to head in gentler conditions for the pleasant path by the reservoirs of Bollinhurst and Horse Coppice, both depleted after a dryish August.  A change in direction at Stonehead found us heading straight for Disley and down the steps to Disley Station. “A 5 star walk” said one of the ladies, as we thanked Sam. Were there crowds of walkers to enjoy the very good route? – Sadly, no, as only 4 turned up.  Perhaps others were put off by gloomy forecasts, seduced by table tennis, or were recovering from a long journey back from Giverney.  But they missed a treat!

Walter Mason

SEPTEMBER 28
Report on the Walk
It was third time lucky for Steve Reynolds.  Previous attempts to have a walk from Ilam had fallen foul of bad weather.  This time there was success, and what success, with glorious warm sunshine to display the lovely scenery in Dove and Manifold valleys to best advantage.

21 made the long trip to the National Trust car park at Ilam Hall, and were led past Ilam’s picturesque cottages and over the lower slopes of Bunster Hill, past the Izaac Walton hotel to the River Dove car park.  Then we followed the crowds by the lovely river to the stepping stones, where all ventured across to a welcome coffee stop.

The crowds were left behind as we climbed gently up Lin Dale.  Nobody seemed tempted by Thorpe Cloud, a shapely mountain, sharply pointed from Lin Dale, but earlier seemingly with its top cut off flat. Soon we ambled through pleasant Thorpe village, where several succumbed to windfall apples generously left free in buckets for the taking, past the attractive church, and descended a scenic path to Coldwell Bridge and a lunch stop.  Steve had led us further south than ever before on our monthly walks and the group were now off the bottom of the Peak District White Peak area map!


A long grassy stretch in the lower Dove valley led past the confluence of Dove and Manifold, where we followed the Manifold back to the bridge at Ilam. There an ice cream van had rich pickings from our group.  By the church, recently visited by Pubs and Churches, and within sight of our car park, the group split.  The hardier walkers made a short circuit of Ilam Hall Park, and returned over the grassy parkland, to teas or coffees in the NT tea room, or to quick halves in the Izaak Walton. Whichever, all had really enjoyed Steve’s mostly level (?) walk, which had taken us to new ground and a fabulous area. Thanks Steve.  

Walter Mason

OCTOBER 26
Report on the Walk
David Lloyd struck lucky with a lovely autumn morning for this 6 mile walk as he led a party of 26 into the varied cloughs and side valleys of Torkington and Ochrelay Brooks.
First the route went along the canal towards Hawk Green, then across Marple Golf course into the steep-sided cloughs of Torkington Brook.  Then it cut across Stockport golf course to head south past Broadoak Farm and its “medieval” moat.


After a lunch close by Ochrelay Brook, noteworthy for equine interruptions (who was feeding titbits to the horses?), David changed direction to avoid a mass of cattle on the footpath, in case the bull amongst them was unfriendly!  The Middlewood Way led under the A6 to Middlewood Station, and a track took us by the appropriately named Middle Wood to the Macclesfield Canal and back to the village hall. 


Apart from the rather tricky paths in the cloughs, the route had been easy and very pleasant, showing us that the nearby parts of  Hawk Green, Offerton Green, Torkington and Middlewood have plenty to offer, for which we thanked David and his local walk.

Walter Mason

NOVEMBER 8
Report on the Walk
A fortnight after David Lloyd used the canal and Middlewood Way from High Lane, Brian Allerton, with a party of 11, used the same combination, but now from Bollington.  It was a slightly misty, dull day as Brian led us up the viaduct path to use a long section of the former rail route to Barton’s Clough, where we turned, briefly glimpsed Styperson Pool, then headed gently up to a coffee stop by the disused Breck Quarries.  After a half-mile stretch of Long Lane, a narrow path led down past Lane Head Farm, and shortly onto the canal towing path, past the former lace mill, and down the steep steps to the River Dean and recreation ground.

On the way we had passed several wood sculptures, a well used badger sett, and a decorated bench, and Brian (assisted by Richard) had told us some interesting snippets about the Way, the canal, and lace production at Clarence mill.  Then we all retired happily to the Vale Inn, rejuvenated with fine food, and a wide selection of fascinating beers, all produced in the microbrewery only a couple of hundred yards away.  Brian deservedly received plenty of praise for his choice of route and eating house – well worth a visit! 

Walter Mason

NOVEMBER 30
Report on the Walk
22 joined group leader Walter Mason for a morning walk from Lyme Park.  The route went over the lake outlet bridge, then left to slant up the wooded hillside, over a stile, and head across to the Hase Bank track.  Soon a right hand green path was followed down towards Green Farm with widespread views through the dazzling low sunshine.
From the farm it was a firm track to West Gate, and back into the park; but soon the group was led right onto a narrow path climbing steadily, before swinging back through the low bracken to the rocky outcrop of Cluse Hay, and a welcome but breezy coffee stop.  Then followed the classic walk below the Paddock Cottage and along the edge path, with continual views down the steep valley to the right, and climbed into the Knights Low woods.  A faint path on the left led up to a surprise view down the Lime Walk towards the hall.  The Lime Walk was closed for the winter in favour of the deer herd, but a left hand detour just above the retaining wall gave lovely views of Lyme Hall, with the Cage behind.  Through the gate, we kept in the trees on the right hand side with glimpses of deer, and back to the car park.
It had been a lovely sunny morning, much better than the forecast, and several little tracks in the 4 mile walk had been new to many. So the group seemed very happy, as they dispersed to various eating venues, or rushed home to prepare for afternoon latin dancing, or whatever.

Walter Mason

DECEMBER 28
Report on the Walk
Winter rain and sleet had taken a short respite to give us a dry, clear refreshing wind for Joyce & Merlyn’s walk in Mellor.
26 walkers joined us on an easy 3 mile stroll along country lanes, bridle paths and fields as we circumnavigated the top hills of Mellor some 1000 ft. above sea level.
We started from the summit of Mellor village along Bogguard Road walking south east towards Cobden Edge.  The views of Mellor, St Thomas Church, Manchester, Werneth Low, Brown Low, Hollingworth Moor and beyond unfolded before us.  In the far distance we could see Fiddlers Ferry but alas distant views of Liverpool Cathedral were lost on the far horizon.
Stopping along various viewpoints Merlyn gave us a brief history on the area of Mellor spanning some 10,000 years and the many archaeological digs uncovering many artefacts,  Iron Age forts, Bronze Age barrows, Roman remains, cairns etc.
Along Cobden Edge we passed Soldiers Knob the highest point in Mellor at 1075 ft. and below it Mellor Cross erected by local churches in 1970 sited on a former beacon site.
Round the next bend we came to Rachel’s Stile, stopping for coffee with scenic views over Bow stones, Black Hill, Shutlingsloe, Shining Torr, Chinley Churn and of course Kinder Plateau.
Following the meal our U3A Chairman Steve thanked Walter on behalf of the group for organisation of our 2011 walking programme, the anniversary walk on Kinder and the successful holiday at the Damson Dene Hotel.

Merlyn Young

Group Leader - Walter Mason