National Trust

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Visit to Lyme Park in Cheshire on 19th August.

Departing at our usual time of 8.30 am from Hucknall Market we enjoyed a pleasant and very scenic journey through the Peak District up to Lyme Park. On arrival we were greeted by members of staff from Lyme Park who issued maps, tokens to enter the house and spent time explaining the facilities and tours on offer for the group.

The House, gardens and estate are very extensive and covering everything in a day presents a challenge.

The estate is very well staffed with volunteers who were both enthusiastic and knowledgeable.

Over the day members had the opportunity to go on a behind the scenes tour of the House, attend a series of talks concerning the history of the Estate, tour the superbly maintained gardens, walk around any of the pleasant walks around the estate and possibly catch sight of the deer who were roaming around. There was a choice of cafes available which baked many of the items on site also a selection of shops including a gift shop, plant shop and second hand book shop.

All this before entering Lyme House itself with its twenty four splendid rooms adorned with period furniture.

Arriving finally back at the coach for the journey home we all agreed that Lyme Park is one of the gems in the National Trust collection with an army of volunteers helping to make the visit one to remember.

Next month the group will be heading to Kedleston Hall in Derbyshire when due to the shorter journey time we will be departing at the later time of 9.30 am. 

Barrie

                                                             

Litter Picking

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During July some members of the group were away on holiday. However, members still managed to collect a total of 17 bags of rubbish from our environment. It’s just a pity that all the litter louts weren’t away on holiday too!

Should anyone else wish to join our litter picking group please contact me for further information as per the interest group details at the end of the newsletter. A tabard and equipment will be provided.

Val (Gant)

Discovering Britain

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On Friday 8th August we visited Stratford on Avon, a beautiful day though maybe a little hot for some.

Stratford-upon-Avon, a historic market town in Warwickshire, is world-famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Visitors can explore several significant sites linked to the playwright’s life.

Shakespeare’s Birthplace is a restored 16th-century timber-framed house on Henley Street where Shakespeare was born in 1564 and spent his early years. The home offers period furnishings, rare documents, and live performances by costumed actors, giving an authentic glimpse into Tudor life.

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, located in the nearby village of Shottery, was the childhood home of Shakespeare’s wife. This picturesque, thatched farmhouse, surrounded by beautiful gardens, features original furniture, including the “Hathaway bed.” The cottage reflects rural Elizabethan life and courtship traditions.

New Place was Shakespeare’s grand family home, purchased in 1597, where he lived for the last 19 years of his life and wrote many late works. Although the original house was demolished in the 18th century, the site is now an open garden with sculptures and exhibits that evoke the spirit of his creations.

Together, these landmarks form the heart of Stratford’s Shakespearean heritage, attracting millions each year to walk in the footsteps of England’s greatest playwright.

Mark Thornley

Long Walks

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On 5th August, a circular walk took place starting at Holmbrook Valley Country Park, a green space known for its meadows, ponds, and woodland paths. The morning began under mild summer skies, with participants setting out from the park’s visitor area. The route first followed winding trails through wildflower grasslands, offering views of butterflies and songbirds.

From Holmbrook, the walk continued towards Barlow Country Park, passing along shaded lanes and hedgerows. This section provided a mix of open fields and gentle climbs, with opportunities to spot waterfowl in the park’s wetlands. A short rest stop allowed walkers to enjoy the peaceful scenery and take photographs.

The route then led to Linacre Reservoir, a tranquil stretch of water surrounded by trees and reeds. Here, walkers paused to watch ducks and geese, while enjoying a cooling breeze across the water. The reservoir path looped back towards Holmbrook, linking up with woodland tracks that gradually descended into the country park.

In total, the walk covered approximately 8.5 miles, combining varied landscapes and habitats. The group returned in the afternoon, pleased with the relaxed pace, sociable atmosphere, and the chance to explore three distinct local nature areas in one rewarding circular route.

Mark Thornley

Holiday Tour

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Proposed Hucknall and District u3a Normandy D Day Landings Holiday Tour

Thursday April 16th to Tuesday April 21st, 2026

An Overview

On our guided WW2 Tour we will see some of the most iconic D-Day locations and visit all the D-Day landing beaches along the Normandy coastline as well as seeing the site of the Pegasus Bridge glider landing, and where the ‘Band of Brothers’ fought near St. Mère Eglise.

We will also visit Caen which rose to prominence in the 11th century when William the Conqueror made it his base. He and his wife Matilda founded two grand abbeys, still standing today. It was heavily bombed in WWII during the Battle of Normandy and Caen now blends medieval heritage with modern vitality.

Itinerary

Day 1- Travel by Skills Luxury Coach to Dover       (215 miles 4.5 hours)

Ferry Crossing                                                   (1.5 hours)

Calais an interesting drive to Bayeux                  (245 miles 4.5 hours)

Day 2- Pegasus Bridge and Arromanche

Day 3- Ste Mere Eglise, Utah Beach, Pointe du Hoc and Omaha

Day 4- (Sunday) Free Day in and around historic Bayeux

Day 5 – Caen and the Caen Memorial Museum

Day 6- Return Journey

Accommodation: The Novotel Bayeux

The Novotel Bayeux is just 1 km away from the famous Bayeux Tapestry and the historic town centre. Guestrooms are modern and comfortable and are equipped with modern en suite facilities, Wi-Fi access and air-conditioning. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, swimming pool and garden.

The accommodation is on a Bed and breakfast basis except for the last night Monday 20th when we have a group meal.

Costs

The cost to Skills is £649.00 per person in a twin or double

Unfortunately, singles are an extra £150.00

I have secured 14 twin rooms;8 doubles and 4 singles.

There will be an additional £20 to £30 for the guide and driver’s tip

The initial deposit to be paid to Skills is £65.00 per person

Once the group has been established, I will send out details of how to pay the deposit

Please email me with your name(s) and room type preference if you wish to join this holiday – (davidrose98835@gmail.com)