The Marchington group chose to walk Stage 2 of the Staffs Way from Ryecroft Gate to Oakmeadow Ford Lock as for us it was a relatively unexplored area. July the 18th was our original start date but after advice from Marilyn, taken from the blog of the experiences of the "complete Staffs Way walkers" during the inclement weather (stars indeed!), we decided to delay, not wishing to don gaiters up to our waists and wield machetes to tame the undergrowth!
So, six of us arrived at our starting point on Wednesday 8th August. Invigorated by our "caffeine fix" and crunchy nut biscuits
... suitably attired, waving farewell to our volunteer drivers
... we set off in very good spirits encouraged by a hint of blue through the cloud. Within a very short distance a magnificent panorama including Rudyard Reservoir stretched out around us before we headed off through the woods
... and by then the sun really had got his hat on!
On reaching the visitors center at Rudyard Reservoir we were so impressed by its serentiy and calmness in spite of it being a hive of activity with interest and sporting activities for all ages. This landmark is also a memorable beauty spot for Rudyard Kipling's parents. To complete the picture, the Churnet Valley Railway steam train could be seen chugging through the countryside. A truly rural scene almost taking us back in time.
We lingered a while and then headed off along the feeder canal for some distance.
As we progressed along well trodden paths the foliage became denser but was given a wonderful lift by the sun's rays breaking through the branches.
A well-deserved rest and much needed sustenance with an impressive 180 degree vista and a very convenient low wall for added comfort!
Moving on, through open undulating countryside over a few sturdy stiles
Stepping it out ...
and views right across to Leek and the Roaches
Last lap ... yet another change of scene along the Cauldon Canal pausing to gen up on the Cheddleton Flint Mill, millers cottage and small museum.
The end is in sight!
Boots off and very welcome refreshment at The Boat Inn!
A perfect end to a perfect day ... cue for a song!
Submitted by Susan
So glad you had good weather for a change! And you saw a steam train... We can hear them from our garden and can't wait until the line is extended to reach the bottom of our road (which we're promised will be soon). Well done to you all and thank you for rounding up the challenge.
ReplyDeleteWell done Marchington. It looks as though you had a very enjoyable day out in scenic North Staffordshire. Good weather certainly helps. I like the photo where you have all taken your boots off on reaching the Boat Inn. I'm thinking about investing in some of those eye-catching pink socks too!
ReplyDeleteI think the photos on the blog serve as a good reminder of what an attractive county we live in.
Our NWR walking challenge is now officially complete. Thank you to everyone for getting your boots on and walking every step of the Staffordshire Way. We hope to see many of you at the celebration picnic on 15 September.
Marilyn
You chse an excellent section for your group, and you had lovely weather! Good walking too! I was so disappointed on the Long Walk not to be able to 'show off' this area to a fellow walker who didn't know it.
ReplyDeleteSarah Stafford