A good-sized group attended the September meeting when 3 recipes were again demonstrated and eaten.
It has been a while since we last met so it was good to come together again. A huge thank you to Jane and to those who helped in the kitchen and those who served the tasty morsels to the rest of the group. I could not do it without you.
The next meetings are 27th October, and 24th November, both the 4th Mondays of the month.
This group is now full and cannot take any new members for now.
Our most recent excursion began aboard a beautifully restored 1946 vintage bus, whose polished chrome and distinctive character instantly set the tone for the day. From Hucknall we travelled in style, enjoying the gentle hum of the old engine as we made our way through the countryside towards Wirksworth, in truth it was quite noisy, but fun.
At Wirksworth we transferred to an atmospheric steam train, its plume of white smoke curling above the carriages as we boarded. The rhythmic chug of the locomotive and the whistle’s call brought an air of nostalgia, transporting us back to a golden age of travel. The journey offered fine views across the Derbyshire hills, made all the more enjoyable by the leisurely pace.
We were treated to a hearty full English breakfast; with eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, and toast, it was a satisfying highlight and provided the perfect opportunity to relax and chat while soaking in the traditional surroundings.
Re-boarding our vintage bus, we continued to the Crich Tramway Village. There we admired the heritage trams including a ride on the trams, an old fashioned sweet shop, ice cream and a satisfying pint in the Red Lion pub before beginning our final leg homeward, on ‘Walter’ our vintage bus. Returning to Hucknall in the ‘comfort’ of the 1946 bus completed a truly memorable day full of nostalgia, camaraderie, and timeless transport experiences.
Our visit to York was a memorable experience filled with history, culture, and charm. We arrived in the city and immediately felt its unique character, with winding streets, medieval buildings, and an atmosphere that blends the past with the present. On our arrival we had a cup of tea together and then went our separate ways. One of the first places I visited was the Jorvik Viking Centre, which was truly fascinating. The exhibitions and interactive displays brought Viking history to life, and the ride through a recreation of a Viking settlement made me feel as if I had stepped back in time.
Afterward, I made my way to York Minster, one of the most impressive cathedrals in Europe. Its sheer scale and breathtaking Gothic architecture were awe-inspiring. Inside, the intricate stained glass windows and grand interior filled me with admiration for the craftsmanship of centuries ago.
Later in the day, I wandered through the Shambles, one of York’s most famous streets. Its narrow, cobbled lanes and timber framed buildings are a throwback to another time. Exploring the surrounding old streets was enjoyable, each corner offering something new and picturesque.
Overall, York is a wonderful old city, rich in history and atmosphere, and my visit left me with lasting memories.
On 2nd September this year, we completed a pleasant circular walk beginning and ending in Brackenfield, taking in the villages of Woolley and Woolley Moor, before skirting the edge of Ogston Reservoir and returning, via Ogston. The route covered varied terrain, offering a mixture of village charm, open countryside, and scenic waterside paths.
Setting out from Brackenfield, the morning was bright but cool, with hints of autumn beginning to colour the hedgerows. The gentle ascent towards Woolleygave wide views over the Amber Valley, while the church and stone cottages provided a reminder of the area’s long history. Continuing to Woolley Moor, the path crossed rolling farmland, alive with late summer bird activity.
From here, the route dropped steadily towards the reservoir. Walking along its wooded edge was a highlight, with calm reflections across the water and occasional glimpses of sailing boats and noting sightings of herons and grebes.
The return to Brackenfield was gradual and easy, passing hedgerows heavy with blackberries. The full circuit took just under four hours at a steady pace. Overall, this circular walk combined rural tranquillity with rich scenery, making it a thoroughly rewarding route to mark the beginning of autumn.
Cycle Group Ride to Loughborough Two-Day Adventure
On Sunday, 14th September, eleven enthusiastic riders from the Cycle Group embarked on an exciting two-day cycling adventure to Loughborough. Setting off in fine spirits on Sunday, the group covered a total distance of 46 miles, enjoying pleasant but drizzly weather and lively conversation along the way. The route offered a delightful mix of countryside, canal paths, picturesque villages, and two well-earned refreshment stops, making the journey both enjoyable and memorable for all involved.
Upon arrival in Loughborough, we checked into the Travelodge for a well-deserved rest. After freshening up, everyone gathered for an evening meal at Wetherspoons, where good value food, drink and plenty of camaraderie were shared.
The following morning, plans for breakfast at the much-anticipated Tiffany’s were dashed when the group discovered it was closed. Undeterred, we headed back to Wetherspoons, to enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off for the return journey.
We were greeted with a yellow warning of wind; however we pressed on battling against the elements and tree debris on a shorter return route of 32 miles.
The two-day ride was a great success, and we thank John Saunders and Brian Carr for all their preparation and route selection.
