David and Jacinta's Walks- 2023

Edale, Kinder and Grindslow Knoll (Jacinta Solo)  Jacinta drove to Edale as the forecast was good and there have been few dry days this month. I was solo again- missing joint walks a lot and hoping that D. is back soon. First stop, as ever, was The Penny Pot Café for a cup of coffee. Penny Pot coffee and mini-granola biscuit I walked up to the Kinder Plateau, enjoying the sight of the heather which has grown so much since we were here last. Heather on Kinder The walk around the plateau was uneventful; I met two Dutch women several time who were struggling with the concept of Kinder as an area rather than a particular hill and also the name "Kinder"- coming as they did from the part of Holland nearest to Germany. I had lunch on Grindslow Knoll with a view of The Great Ridge. The Great Ridge from Grindslow Knoll I made my way back down to Edale (under the watchful gaze of the sheep who were newly shorn). Watchful sheep The walk was rounded off by a welcome cup of tea at Newfold...

Crowden and the Reservoir Walk (Jacinta Solo) This time, Jacinta decided to go to Crowden and walk around the reservoirs as it is an enjoyable walk, and covers a reasonable distance. On the way out to Tintwistle there were a few people around and I enjoyed a quick stop at the café - Pixie Bakes. I then took the route that David and I did the last time we walked here, at the beginning of June. Rather neglected water fountain below Bottoms dam Canada Geese on Bottoms Reservoir I went up to the Bottoms Reservoir and thence back to Crowden. Multi-purpose fence post The Longdendale Valley plays host to a line of huge electricity pylons- very impressive! Longdendale Pylon On this occasion, I took the Pennine Way and was glad that I did, as the end of the walk was notable for the sight of a lone sheepdog rounding up many sheep and sending down to the farm in Crowden. A nice walk and it remained dry. 8 Miles.

Hayfield, Lantern Pike and Little Hayfield- Jacinta Solo A lovely sunny day after all the rain at the beginning of July- such a change after all the lovely sunshine in June.  I decided to go on a solo hike- a first and chose Lantern Pike as it is close and familiar. After a coffee at the van in the car park, I set off up Lantern Pike. Hayfield from ascent of Lantern Pile It was breezy but warm and the views over towards Kinder were excellent as ever. Summit Direction Indicator I carried on until the 5 way signpost and then made my way back through the bracken to reach the river at Little Hayfield. Descent path to Little Hayfield Ducks at Little Hayfield  It was great to see some of the Hayfield Well Dressing and to read about the work that goes into making these boards. Well Dressing Board at Hayfield I stopped to eat my lunch in the  sun, surrounded by greedy jackdaws who sampled everything on offer, from bagel to grapes. Probably about 6 miles.

A Stroll with Mary Cornell - Jacinta A short stroll, about 3 miles, around the river near Offerton with Mary Cornell. Short but worth a mention! We discussed Elizabeth Strout's book and had a pleasant time.

Whaley Bridge, Fernilee Reservoir and Kettleshulme- Jacinta Solo I t has been a strange time, with David out of action with a sore foot. However, I managed to meet up with Anna Wells in Whaley Bridge and go for a walk around Whaley Bridge. It was a bright sunny day and we set off from Anna's house and made our way to Fernilee Reservoir.  Fernilee Reservoir Fernilee Reservoir Outfall I t was lovely to be out and we enjoyed the trip around the reservoir and then on to Kettleshulme. The tracks were quiet and we made good time to the Swan for our lunch booking at 2pm. Anna sets a cracking pace and the 8 miles seemed to go quickly.  After a pleasant stop, it was back to the station and home, where I managed to meet up with David.