Category: Long Walks

Date: 9^th January 2025

The walk commenced from Teversal Visitors Centre under a crisp winter sky, with temperatures hovering around 5°C. The path to Hardwick Hall wound gently uphill, offering panoramic views of the frosty countryside. The trail, well-marked and lined with bare hedgerows, provided a tranquil atmosphere, punctuated by the occasional call of a robin or the rustle of dry leaves.

After approximately 45 minutes of steady walking, Hardwick Hall came into view, its Elizabethan grandeur standing stark against the pale sky. The grounds, partially dusted with frost, were quiet, allowing for peaceful exploration of the exterior. A short rest was taken here to admire the scenery and enjoy a warm flask of tea.

The return journey led through Lady Spencer’s Wood, a secluded haven where towering oaks and beeches created a serene canopy. The woodland path was soft underfoot, scattered with fallen leaves. The air was invigorating, carrying the earthy scent of damp moss. Several squirrels were spotted darting between trees.

The circuit concluded back at the visitors’ centre after a total of around three hours, leaving walkers refreshed and inspired by the landscape’s wintry charm. This route is highly recommended for its natural beauty and historical highlights.

The December walk was an 8 mile circular hike which started by the River Trent at Fiskerton.

The route took us to Farndon before looping around the big complex that is Staythorpe Power Station. The power station is fuelled by natural gas (methane) and the site once housed 2 coal fired plants.

The area is a focus for pylons which transmit the power across the county and beyond.

We took a coffee break near these ‘iron giants’ by the river at Staythorpe

The route continued to Averham and onto Rolleston for a late lunch stop behind the village hall.

Following lunch we completed the last section via the impressive water powered Mill at Fiskerton to the car park.

The next walk is on Tuesday 7^th January

We walked from Cromford to Bonsall and through Bonsalldale back to Cromford a picturesque loop in Derbyshire, blending historical landmarks, charming villages, and scenic countryside. Starting in Cromford, we passed the historic Cromford Mill, a UNESCO World Heritage site, then follow a winding uphill path through woodlands towards Bonsall. The ascent provides rewarding views of the surrounding limestone hills and valleys.

Reaching Bonsall, a quaint village known for its narrow streets, traditional stone cottages, a rich lead-mining history and the 13th-century St. James’ Church. From Bonsall, the route continues along Bonsalldale, a serene, green valley flanked by rolling fields and dry-stone walls, making it an idyllic stretch for nature lovers.

The descent through Bonsalldale is gentle, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the countryside. The walk loops back alongside the River Derwent to Cromford where we had a pint and a chat at the Greyhound public house.

Thank you to all the hardy souls that turned up for the walk at Cresswell Crags, which had to be abandoned due to the adverse weather.

However, we made the most of it and had a cup of tea and a scone, which put a brighter complexion on things. We then had a quick look round the Crags on the way back to the cars.

On the 3rd of September, a 7.9-mile circular walk began at Laxton Visitor Centre, near Newark, known for its unique medieval Open Field System. The walk started by crossing this historic landscape, where the communal strip farming method, still in use today, showcases a living piece of England’s agricultural past. The open fields offer expansive views of the countryside, providing a sense of the area’s long-standing traditions.

The route continued toward the Manorial Earthworks by Curtin Woods, remnants of Laxton’s medieval past. These earthworks are believed to mark boundaries or serve as defensive structures from an earlier time. Nearby, Curtin Wood provided a peaceful contrast to the open fields, with shaded woodland paths, rich in wildlife, adding a sense of seclusion to the walk.

Next, the path led to the Old Fishponds, which once played a role in medieval Laxton’s self-sufficiency, as fish were a key food source during this time. The ponds now offer a scenic, tranquil spot surrounded by lush greenery and abundant birdlife.

The walk then progressed into Egmonton Woods, an ancient woodland with a mix of old trees and rich undergrowth. This part of the walk offered a serene, forested environment, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the sounds of nature.

The route concluded by looping back toward Laxton Visitor Centre, once again passing through the patchwork of open fields, ending a walk that beautifully combined history, rural landscapes, and natural beauty in one. This walk is a rich journey through Laxton’s medieval heritage and countryside charm, offering varied scenery and peaceful surroundings.