Thursday walk report – 16th August

A party of 15 and Poppy began the gradual ascent from our starting point, through Coombs Farm and to the rising path through Manners Wood where blackberries were in abundance, We emerged from the wood at an excellent viewpoint over Calton Pastures and descended through fields to our coffee stop below Calton Houses. We lingered as the weather improved, but it was soon time to move on, much to the indignation of Mr Hammond who had just poured his third (or was it his fourth?) cup of coffee.
We were soon following the pleasant riverside path through Chatsworth until we reached three conveniently placed benches with a view overlooking the house and grounds. An ideal lunch stop. As we left for Edensor, a small herd of Fallow deer, all with antlers, (must have been a stag party) provided us with some entertainment and a photo opportunity. More blackberries lined our route as we climbed the lane to the west of Edensor, and at Ballcross Farm we turned towards the Moatless Plantation, with fine views over Bakewell, with Minninglow on the horizon. A steep path down through the woods brought us to the golf course and the warning bell was sounded as we crossed the fairway, before we descended to the Monsal Trail (more blackberries), and the short walk back to our starting point.
8.1 mi;es of pleasant walking. Thanks to all who came along.
Sean.