Stanton Moor 12 May 2013
11 brave souls set out from the free Winster car park at 10.40am in fine weather but with rain threatened by the Met.Office by 4pm. Our initial route over fields and woodland soon took us by the ruin of an engine house as we climbed to reach our coffee stop on a sheltered grassy bank. Afterwards we proceeded by lane and over the edge of ploughed fields, passing some inquisitive llamas and soon after a peacock or two at Barn Farm.
Venturing next onto Stanton Moor we passed a tall tower and then eventually reached the Nine Ladies Stone Circle. Here we took lunch at 12.30pm as the weather was still just about fine. After lunch, and after some fun and games trying to find the best route to the Cork Stone, we succeeded, tramped on down into Birchover, and rewarded ourselves with a drink and a good break at the Druid Inn.
Refreshed, we set off towards the gritstone tor known as Robin Hood's Stride. Jo and I went in search of the nearby Hermit's cave whilst the others put on their waterproofs.The rest of the afternoon consisted of minor road and field paths, first to Elton (where the former Youth Hostel was identified), and later on a section of the Limestone Way, before heading directly into Winster and the public toilets at 4.20pm.
Thanks to Chris H, Chris S, Pete H, Howard, Dave & Jo, Trish, Paula, Gill, and Shaun (who took the photos) for their company during the hike.
Les H
