A beautiful sunny day welcomed us to the grandeur of Ilam Hall. We skirted the gardens then set off along beside the River Manifold. Across fields and lanes, we were treated to a variety of wild flowers, including early purple orchids. Our ascent of Musden Low (trig tick) afforded great views down the valley and we enjoyed the ever changing shapes of Bunster Hill and Thorpe Cloud. Onwards to the ruins of Throwley Old Hall, now looked after by the National Trust – dating back to the 1600s. A pleasant meander down the valley returned us to the car. Total 14km.