22nd July 2016 Burbage Woods walking in the shade.approx 4.5 miles.

 As we were experiencing the hottest week of the year so far we decided on a shady walk around Burbage Woods. 34 degrees on Wednesday, haven't had any temperatures like that for quite a while.

Burbage Woods would at least give some shade for parts of the walk. It was decided to park on Smithy Lane and then make our way to the Acorn Cafe, one of our favourite stops, for tea/coffee etc.

Unfortunately one of our group only heard 'Acorn cafe', and so set off for the wrong car park giving three other walkers a lift. Then, to top that, two other walkers decided to follow in the wrong direction. What a to do !!! 

After contacting the way-wood parties it was decided to meet at a bridge crossing the Birmingham to Leicester railway line.

So the two parties set off. The pictures are of the Smithy Lane walkers, now walking in a different direction to join up with the others.

The trees around the woods do give welcome shade at times, that is until the open field sections have to be crossed. 

  

Hopefully, this sign will deter would-be fly tippers.

Leaving the woods behind us the photographers were able to get close ups on some butterfly's and flying insects.

                                 

Others among the group got on with the walking and talking.

Not far to the railway bridge.

When both groups eventually met, we all realised that we were still two walkers short.

After a discussion and an attempt to phone the missing two walkers the group continued on with the walk.

It was a glorious day with some superb country views.

The photograph shows a smiling face, but in the distance you can just spot two missing walkers doing a quick shuffle catch up walk. 

After an explanation of all sorts of wrong turns and huge traffic jams they had parked up to see the group walking off in the distance. It was all good fun.

Back to the walk, anyone need to know how to coppice?

Maybe in the future. At this particular point it was mentioned that a cup of tea or a cool drink would be nice.

Not too far to Acorns now.

Through the bridge and back into the woods for a short way.

Out of the woods and Acorns could be seen in the distance.

Lemon drizzle, fruit cake, scones and more - yum!

All very enjoyable.

After the break  it was a walk back through the woods.

Eventually arriving back at the car park.

It was a lovely walk using the shade of the trees as much as possible.

Forecast is that the weather will get cooler but not too cool. Perfect walking weather.

Please note that on the 5th of August we will be having an away- day walk around part of RUTLAND WATER. Approx 5mls.

Leaving Cosby Car park at 9.30am

Please bring a packed lunch. We plan to go to a pub for an early evening meal - please indicate if you would like to join us.

More details at next week's walk and via your E mail.