Short Walks

by WebmasterShort Walks, UncategorizedPosted on Comments are Disabled

Our July walk was a semi-urban 4.5-mile stroll from Nottingham Train Station.

We followed the canal before crossing over Trent Bridge, continued past the rowing clubs and the Forest City Ground, passing under lady Bay Bridge to reach the new made in Hucknall ‘Briton’ bridge.

This new footbridge over the Trent adds a clean, modern sweep to the riverside, linking paths and communities on across the river. Its elegant curves frame the water beautifully, giving walkers and cyclists a safer, more scenic route. A simple structure, but a real boost to the areas character and accessibility.

We met a school group on the crossing who had made models of the structure support chains which they spread out along the bridge.

We crossed the bridge and returned on paths alongside Nottingham Racecourse and a footpath on an old railway line towards Sneinton reaching the station for a welcome coffee stop.

August Walk

On Thursday 20th August we follow the bridge theme to visit Bennerley Viaduct.

The Bennerley Viaduct café was opened on Saturday 18 July 2026, alongside the newvisitor centre. It serveslocally sourced refreshments and sits within a Corten‑clad building inspired by historic railway carriages. The centre includes toilets, exhibitions, and education space, completing the long‑awaited accessible route across the viaduct. Our walk will cross the viaduct and take the opportunity to visit the café.

Details will be sent out the weekend of the 15th of August.

David Rose

Not So Grumpy Old Men

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Visit to Pleasley Mining Museum

The Not So Grumpy Old Men enjoyed a fascinating trip on July 15th to Pleasley Mining Museum, one of Derbyshire’s finest surviving reminders of Britain’s coal‑mining past. The former Pleasley Colliery, opened in the 1870s, still stands proudly with its towering headstocks, atmospheric engine houses and beautifully restored steam winding engines, which are nowadays driven by electrical energy.

We started the day in the café before exploring the site with two friendly and knowledgeable volunteer guides who brought the miners’ world to life – from the tough early days of sinking the shafts to the camaraderie and community that shaped Pleasley for more than a century. The star attraction, the mighty 1904 Lilleshall steam winder, impressed everyone with its sheer scale and engineering elegance.

The museum’s volunteers have worked wonders since the pit closed in 1983, transforming it into a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a real treasure of industrial heritage. It proved to be a perfect outing: history, machinery, good company – and not a grumpy face in sight.

David Rose

National Trust

by WebmasterNational TrustPosted on Comments are Disabled

Visit to Dudmaston Estate on Monday 20th July.

After having to postpone last month’s visit to Ickworth because of the extreme weather it was lovely to set off to visit Dudmaston in near perfect weather. After a smooth two hour journey we  arrived safely at the venue. Membership cards were checked and a short talk on the bus by NT staff then saw us going on to the estate grounds to begin our day.

The venue had a lovely cafe area which included plenty of seating in  an adjacent apple orchard. The school holidays had begun in the West Midlands and it meant that a larger number of families were visiting than would normally be the case.

The House was unusual in that the present owners still occupy parts of it today, while the exhibitions included a large display of modern artwork. Outside the gardens were quite spectacular and the walk around the lake area proved to be very popular. Unusually, there was no gift shop on the estate, it had closed during Covid times and never been reopened.

Members agreed that it was one of the best sites that we had ever visited. 

The sun was still shining as we returned to the coach for our journey back to Hucknall to end a very enjoyable day.

Our August visit takes us across to Chirk Castle on one of our longer journeys for this year.

Barrie                                                        

Hog Roast and 60/70’s Disco

by WebmasterEvents, Social Committee, Social EventsPosted on Comments are Disabled

On Friday 26 June the Social Sub Committee organised a hog roast and 1960/70s disco which combined with delicious food, lively music and dancing made it an enjoyable occasion for everyone.

The traditional cooking method produced tender, flavoursome meat with crispy crackling and apple sauce. Everyone enjoyed the meal and then it was disco time. We all knew the 60/70s music singing and dancing to classic hits played by Tony the DJ. The atmosphere was fun and friendly, brought people together which ensured a fantastic atmosphere.



Pickleball

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Hucknall u3a Pickleball Players Beat the Heat

Ten enthusiastic members of Hucknall u3a showed real dedication by turning out to play pickleball at Hucknall Leisure Centre on 9th July despite the soaring 32°C temperatures.

While many people were seeking shade or staying indoors, our players were keen to enjoy a friendly afternoon of exercise, laughter and good company. Although the indoor courts at the leisure centre are incredibly warm everyone could keep active while avoiding the full force of the summer heat. The session was filled with enjoyable rallies, plenty of smiles and a healthy dose of friendly competition. Regular water breaks ensured everyone stayed hydrated, and the supportive atmosphere meant players of all abilities were able to join in and have fun.

Pickleball continues to grow in popularity within Hucknall u3a, offering an excellent way to improve fitness, coordination and balance while making new friends. The game is easy to learn, making it ideal for anyone looking to try a new activity in a welcoming and relaxed setting. If the impressive turnout on one of the hottest days of the year is anything to go by, the enthusiasm of our members is stronger than ever.

We look forward to welcoming new players to future sessions and enjoying many more games together – whatever the weather!

Karen Guy