Short Walks update

On Thursday 21 November, 23 members of the Short Walks group arrived at the Plough Inn at Farnsfield for the start of a gentle walk of nearly four miles. It was a lovely crisp morning with blue skies and sunshine.
The walk took us through the village of Farnsfield along a track which led to the Southwell Trail, formerly the railway line. We walked along hedge-sides until we reached Lower Hexgreave Farm and then onto the parkland of Hexgreave. Leaders Mike and Shirley Dawe were expecting to see the highlight of the walk – the herd of red deer, but they had been moved to another area. Mike gave a potted history of Hexgreave estate which can be traced back to 1240. The hall itself was built between 1750 and 1760 and has been home to many famous people including more recently the late Sir John Eastwood.
We then walked through the estate following a beautiful avenue of lime trees, and passing the entrance and outbuildings of Hexgreave Hall. And then we saw the herd of red deer – an awesome sight! We continued along roads until we reached Farnsfield, and the welcoming sight of the pub. 20 people stayed for a very enjoyable meal in a beautiful festively decorated dining room. Thanks were expressed to Jim and Cindy Bentley who have been coordinators of this group for many years and are now retiring.
Mike and Shirley Dawe
P.S. There will be no walk in December
Our walk in January is Linby/Newstead starting from the Horse and Groom car park,
on the right hand side of the building 10am start.