Seven of us defied the rather dire forecast of heavy rain and thunderstorms. Fifteen minutes after leaving Biggin this seemed a tad foolish as the heavens opened and waterproofs were hastily pulled from rucksacks. Nevertheless we enjoyed expansive views northwards over the upper reaches of the Dove as we descended to Hartington. The rain stopped before we reached the village and we were able to enjoy the riparian delights of Beresford Dale and Wolfscote Dale with only occasional light rain and plenty of sunshine. Swathes of harebells imparted a pale blue haze to the steep valley sides and the angular outcrops of limestone provided a stark contrast. Lunch was taken at Coldeaton Bridge with thunder rumbling around the dale and another short-lived shower. We followed the narrow side dale to climb steeply to the farming hamlet of Coldeaton and on to the road from where we had a good view of Liff’s Low. This late neolithic burial mound was one of the very few intact sites to have been excavated in the 19th century, its skeleton and grave goods having lain undisturbed for four thousand years. From there it was a short stroll through the fields to return to Biggin.
Cheers everyone, for making a potentially poor day into a very enjoyable one.
Steve W
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