Sunday 17 October 2010

Whaley Brisge Walk

10th: Whaley Bridge walk

We were blessed with glorious autumnal sunshine for our walk on Sunday. Some 18 of us set off from the canal basin and proceeded by way of Toddbook reservoir
(rather empty) to Taxal church. Here we were denied the customary refreshment stop due to the church being used for a service; whatever next, and on a Sunday too….
We then dropped down over the nascent River Goyt and back up along Elnor Lane and the side of Ladder Hill to Combs. Alongside The Beehive pub (most acceptable Copper Dragon bitter) we found an ideal sun trap of a spot for a leisurely lunch. We then passed the golf club (scene of various triumphs of Les’s) on the way to Eccles Pike which afforded awesome views in all directions.
After that it was all down hill via the Peak Tramway trail to The Navigation at Buxworth (apparently the locals didn’t like ‘Bugsworth’ and had the name changed
by deed poll so to speak). Here we met up with Vinnie and Leslie; they had taken a somewhat shorter route and seemed well ensconced at the pub…..
After welcome refreshment, it was then on to the junction with the Peak Forest canal and left to Whaley Bridge, except for yours truly who proceeded right to Offerton by way of Marple and the Goyt Valley; and no, I didn’t stop at any pubs, honest…
Thanks to everyone for coming along on a most enjoyable walk.
John H