02nd: Mystery walk
Billed as a mystery walk because our leader didnt know where to
take us, few arriving at Hazel Grove knew what to expect, and 25 joined a
walk that started in Bollington and didn't go up White Nancy.
Instead we headed for the blue bells of Harrop Edge, unfortunately whilst the weather met
with Steve's normal standard, he couldn't bring spring forward two
weeks, so we were early (note lots out this week). Musical instruments provided
the first attraction on this roller coaster walk. Leaving the woods
behind to coffee and biscuits at 11, then up via a little used path, a
bit steeper than expected, to the Gritstone trail. On to Sponds Hill and our leader gave a talk on why they are called Bowstones.
Into Lyme Park and down to the Millpond cafe, good spot for luncheon with ample facilities for comfort .
Suitably refreshed uphill to West Park Gate, with hills steeper by
the minute back over the hills to Pott Shrigley, all down hill from
here, with yet more surprises, a mole came and joined in, before passing
some turkeys, peacocks, or guinea fowl? down over a rebuilt stone
bridge and back to start.
Altogether about 9 miles in ranger dialect, but actually nearer 11.
A bit of a tough walk with the ups and downs, and i note that Steve has
been grumbling about his ankle ever since.