August Church Walk – Youlgrave
This was an evening walk starting from the village church .We set off from there by descending a narrow lane to Bradford Dale and walked along a pleasant riverside track enlivened by numerous wild flowers in bloom. One of our group was very knowledgeable regarding the names of most of them. Apart from the common flowers, we were shown pineapple weed, ragwort, meadow sweet and cranesbill. Also enjoying this tranquil scene were numerous rabbits, sheep and various water birds including moorhens with chicks, coots and the expected ducks.
We continued the walk along the Dale until we reached Alport. This was where we passed a quad bike with a notice attached to the vehicle stating: ‘Is there life after death? Overtake me and you’ll soon find out’. The route took us across fields with the imposing Raper Lodge perched on the hillside.
We then crossed the river over the handsome Conksbury Bridge and found a pleasant seated picnic stop and sat awhile enjoying the serenity whilst watching a swan and her cygnets and dippers feeding in the gently flowing river. Continuing our walk along a river track we reached Lathkill Lodge, crossed over the river by means of a footbridge and made a steep ascent up wooded hillside. Once at the top we now found ourselves able to look down on the hamlet of Over Haddon.
As we walked through a field above Meadow Place Grange it started to rain and a group of horned cattle stood watching as we opened the farm gate to go through the farmyard. They were quite entertained by the slow moving umbrellas. After an uphill slog from the farm and the sight of swallows flying above us we began our descent back to the village with the church easily seen on the horizon. We strode back down Moor Lane, eventually coming to the heart of the village at Fountain Square opposite the old Co-op building,( which must have been much used in its heyday ) which is now a youth hostel. This was a relaxing and interesting evening walk with lots of flora a fauna.
Helen & Eric
For anyone wishing to join us on Sunday 3rd September please note that we will be meeting at the usual time of 12 noon at the church gates. This walk will be in the lovely area of Ladygrove, 5 miles, and led by Evelyn Lowe. Bring a packed lunch and suitable walking clothes and transport to our starting point will be sorted out.