Three of our group went straight to Calke Abbey and had a good look around there while the rest of us met at the garden centre at Staunton Harold. Started a little bit earlier today, 9.30 am.
Leaving the garden centre we headed off to Calke Abbey taking a detour this year through the woods (maybe a little bit lost?). Added a little more adventure to the walk because we had not been that way before.
Lots of photos have been taken and a cull has not been made so enjoy the walk with the odd comment.
Magic climbing trees.
Lambing season in full swing.
These new gates certainly slow you down.
A few grey clouds but there had been no forecast of rain.
Somebody has just spotted her favourite animals.
What amazing expressions.
Leaving the cows and into a small hamlet before heading off into another wood.
Finding a cycle route which led down to the normal route to Calke.
We found it.
Not far now to lunch.
The National Trust at Calke provide tables for everyone.
Everyone enjoying their break.
Looks like 'rally the troops, it's about time to move out'.
Footpath out of the abbey down to the lakeside before heading off to the reservoirs and hopefully a view of the deer in the park.
Only cows here.
Ah, a glimpse of the deer on top of the hillside.
Continuing the walk with the reservoirs on our left - great photo opportunities.
Leaving the flat terrain of the reservoirs we started to walk up towards the hamlet of Calke.
The round car park had been upgraded. In the process they had removed a favourite wall that was just high enough for sitting on when looking at the view. Also great for taking group photos.
Leaving the round car park we moved on through Calke heading towards the path to Staunton Harold.
Any ideas about this?
This is about as close as we got to see the swan sitting on her nest.
Smelt something a bit off.
No, not one of our cast offs.
Rather a steep climb to the top of the valley path.
We took five at the top.
Must be an enormous key to fit this.
A much easier walk along the top path of the Staunton Estate.
Making our way down through the woods.
Out of the woods and there below a wonderful sight, the church and manor house at Staunton Harold.
Taking a moment to admire the view.
Through the gates and on to the cafe.
Most of us were more than ready for a cuppa.
A quick look around at the craft shops.
And a quick look around the garden centre.
We moved on to the Ferrers Arms for dinner to end a really good day out.
Thanks everyone - see you next week.
